Rep. Chu Statement on Introduction of Dream and Promise Act

Statement

Today, Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27) joined fellow Democrats to co-sponsor H.R. 6, the Dream and Promise Act of 2019 to provide protection from deportation and work authorization for Dreamers as well as Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) holders. Rep. Chu issued the following statement:

"This is an historic day. With the introduction of the Dream and Promise Act, the new Democratic majority is proudly acting on our of top priorities, creating a pathway for Dreamers, TPS, and DED holders to continue to contribute and work in our country with dignity and security. For many of these individuals, America is the only home they've ever known. We know that they are American in every way and do not deserve to be used as hostages in political games by a xenophobic president.

"As the Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), I know that this bill is particularly important to the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Seventy percent of Asian Americans are immigrants. Although AAPIs make up six percent of the entire U.S. population, we are 16 percent of the undocumented in this country. That means there are 1.6 million undocumented Asian Americans who urgently need relief from the President's xenophobic threats to tear apart immigrant families. This includes community organizers, artists, activists, scientists, and more. These young people are the future of our nation. They have grown up here, learned here, contributed here, and planned their futures here. Deporting them now simply because they were born someplace else would tear apart communities and rob us of talent and passion. I'm proud to be an original cosponsor this important bill."

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