On December 6, thousands of people rallied outside of the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. to call on Congress to pass a clean Dream Act and permanent residency for TPS (Temporary Protected Status) holders.
Chanting "No hate, no fear. Immigrants are welcome here!" faith leaders, members of immigrant communities, and supporters marched from Upper Senate Park to the steps of the U.S. Capital Building where a 181 people participated in nonviolent civil disobedience. They sat on the steps of the U.S. Capitol Building to demand the passage of the Dream Act and protection of TPS holders before the end of the year.
Currently, young people who would qualify for the Dream Act are being detained by immigration agents and people with TPS are facing deadlines to leave the country. Everyday that Congress delays, more people are in danger of being deported.
By passing the Dream Act and saving TPS families, Congress will protect millions from deportation and ensure that their families can live together and thrive. The Dream Act would create a pathway to citizenship for two million immigrants. A majority of U.S. citizens support this legislation.
Take action: Ask the House to vote on the DREAM Act now.
Photo: Kevin Carrol, Gerry Lee, Susan Gunn, and Darrin Mortenson of the Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns. Photo by Judy Coode.