2. Foundational Knowledge What is the DREAM Act? The Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors Act is also known as the DREAM Act. This act is a proposed legislation that allows high school students who are undocumented, and wish to serve in the Army or recieve a higher education by going to College, may gain legal status in the United States.

3. Foundational Knowledge What is DACA? Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals --On June 15, 2012, the Secretary of Homeland Security announced that certain people who came to the United States as children and meet several key guidelines may request consideration of deferred action for a period of two years, subject to renewal, and would then be eligible for work authorization. This is not a path toward citizenship, nor a green card, nor is it the DREAM Act. http://vacolao.org/deferred%20action%20fact%20sheet%20english%208-20%20FINAL.pdf

4. DREAM Act vs. DACA Qualifications DACA 2-year renewable work permits through USCIS Arrival before age 16, between ages of 15 and 31 of 6/15/12 Continuous residence 6/15/12 High school graduate, GED, or admitted to higher institution Not committed of a felony, or of 3 or more significant misdemeanors. DREAM Act • Pathway to citizenship • Arrived before the age of 15 • Continuous residence for at least 5 years • Male register for selective service • Between 12-35 at the time of bill enactment • High School diploma, GED, admitted to higher institution • Be of good moral character

6. DREAM ACTQuick Facts There are an estimated 2.1 million undocumented children and young adults in the United States who might be eligible for legal status under the DREAM Act.  Each year, approximately 65,000 undocumented students graduate from high school, many at the top of their classes, but cannot go to college, join the military, work, or otherwise pursue their dreams.  The DREAM Act would provide an opportunity for them to live up to their full potential and make even greater contributions to the U.S. economy and society.  How many undocumented students are here at Mason? http://www.immigrationpolicy.org/just-facts/dream-act http://professionals.collegeboard.com/guidance/financial-aid/undocumented-students

7. Revolution or Evolution?Local & National Trends What is happening beyond Mason that is relevant? • Maryland DREAM Act • Nationally • DREAMERS • Latinos are taking the lead, but we are not alone • Obama Administration

8. Advocate “To the world you may be one person but to one person you may be the world.” ~Bill Wilson