DACAs' contribution to the economy:
DACA recipients contribute $200 billion each year in state and local taxes.
The Center for American Progress estimated that DACA recipients will add $460.3 billion to the US GDP over the next decade.
More than 5% of DACA recipients under the age of 25 have started a small business.
“Just becoming a citizen” isn’t an option for Dreamers
Most DACA recipients are not eligible for a green card. The main way to get a green card is by family reunification, through the sponsorship of an immediate relative or spouse. Even with a sponsor, individuals must return to their country of origin to apply for a green card. This creates a problem in itself; in some cases it leads to an automatic ban from returning to the US for a certain period (often three years on first offense or ten years on second offense.)
DACA recipients want to continue serving our communities with certainty, peace of mind, and affirmation that they belong in this country.