On Tuesday, September 5, 2017, “President” Trump announced an end to the Obama-era program that protects young undocumented immigrants from deportation. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, allows young undocumented immigrants to earn an education and have job opportunities. It empowers them to act as successful, contributing members of society without fear of being deported; those accepted into the DACA program are screened through intensive background checks to be impactful, positive citizens in their community. Yet as per Trump’s presidential trend, these young, amazing immigrants are being targeted simply because of their background.
But Americans are not one to give up so easily, and there are plenty of ways one can help protest Trump’s decision and support young DREAMers. Here are just a few ways you can take a stand against our president’s racist agenda:
The nonprofit, Do Something, has just started up a new campaign to protest the repeal of DACA. On their website, you’ll find more information regarding why DACA is so important, a petition to sign, and ways to contact your representatives.
2. Contact Congress
Calling your representatives is a major way to make your voice heard on the matter of DACA. With FWD.us, you can enter your information and get directly in touch with your representative. They also provide a script if you choose to call your local office. In addition, you can text RESIST to 50409 to write a message to your reps straight from your phone.
3. Attend/Organize Rallies
Make your voice heard physically by attending or organizing a rally or march against the end of DACA. In times of struggle, coming together as a community is very important. Gather friends, family, and neighbors to march against Trump. Find your local event here.
4. Spread The Word
Twitter hashtags aren’t as superficial as you think. Spread the word about DACA by tweeting #IStandWithDaca or #DefendDACA, posting on your Facebook and other social media accounts.
5. Talk To Your Local DREAMers
DREAMers are everywhere, from your science teacher to your neighbor to the cashier at the corner store. If you know any local DREAMers, make sure they know they have your support. Ask them specifically if there’s anything you can do to help, ask if you can share their story with others online. In addition, make sure they’re aware that they can renew their DACA membership for another two years by registering before October 5.
The smallest actions make the greatest difference in the protest against the repeal of DACA. Whether it be texting your local representatives or writing an article discussing the program, it is on every person with good morals to take a stand against the repeal of a program that does nothing but equalize opportunities for everyone in this country.
Featured Image: Susan Melkisethian/Flickr
