Introduction These stories are the tip of the iceberg. In February 2015, NCLR began posting weekly on our blog about people who had received Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). The idea was to reach individuals who would be eligible for expanded DACA and the proposed Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and Lawful Permanent Residents (DAPA) program. By sharing how DACA has transformed people’s lives, others would be inspired to apply. Due to a federal court order, however, as of February 16, 2015 there has been a hold on DAPA and the expansion of DACA. Nonetheless, those who meet the requirements for the existing DACA program announced in 2012 can still apply and renew their applications. More than 664,600 people have received administrative relief through DACA. These profiles demonstrate that while their individual stories vary, some common threads exist. Many remember celebrating the announcement of DACA three years ago, as well as celebrating the approval of their applications. They recount the individuals who helped them along the way, from school counselors and teachers to parents and family members who inspired them to work hard and pursue their dreams despite the challenges they faced. In this compilation, we hear about what life was like before DACA and what it has meant for these recipients to receive a work permit and live without the fear of deportation. They came to the United States in different ways from all over the globe. They settled across the country, but all grew up with a strong desire to do well in school, help their families, and give back to their communities. These youth represent the ways that DACA can be transformative, from granting access to in-state tuition to facilitating higher education, better job opportunities, and driver’s licenses.
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