As a DACA recipient who has continually renewed my status since the program's inception, I am here to speak not only on my behalf but for the thousands others like me. We are hardworking, law-abiding, and positive contributors to our respective communities. For me, DACA has provided the opportunity to open a business, creating numerous jobs and impacting the lives of many families.

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program allows us, young immigrants brought to this country as children, to live and work here legally. We have proven ourselves to have exemplary behavior, as one of the requirements for our work permits is good conduct. However, the program falls short in providing a straightforward path to permanent residency and citizenship.

Research shows that DACA recipients, also known as "Dreamers," contribute significantly to the U.S. economy. According to a 2020 study from the Center for American Progress, DACA recipients and individuals with Temporary Protected Status contributed an approximate $3 billion in taxes in 2017 alone. Unfortunately, these contributions are not recognized when it comes to progressing towards citizenship.

It is time for an immigration reform or an executive action that provides DACA recipients with a clear and attainable path to citizenship. We have lived and worked in this country for years, and our contributions should not go unnoticed. Dreamers are as American as any natural-born citizen. We have a rightful claim to this land, and it is time for us to be given the ability to stay permanently without the constant undercurrent of fear and uncertainty.

Please join us in fighting for change. Sign this petition and demand a clear path to citizenship for all DACA recipients.