1. Will DACA recipients be more at risk of deportation without the program?

Yes. DACA recipients, also known as Dreamers, have been protected from deportation under the program. Without this protection, they could be at risk of deportation to their countries of origin.

2. How many people will be affected if DACA ends?

According to data from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), there were approximately 690,000 active DACA recipients as of June 2020. However, there are also an estimated 1.3 million individuals who are potentially eligible for DACA but have not yet applied. If DACA were to end and no alternative protections or pathways to citizenship are put in place, all of these individuals would be at risk of deportation.

3. Can DACA recipients still work without the program?

No, if DACA ends recipients would no longer have valid work authorization and would not be able to legally work in the United States.

4. What will happen to current DACA recipients?

Without a legislative solution or replacement program, current DACA recipients would lose their protected status and could face deportation proceedings.

5. Can new individuals apply for DACA?

As of December 2020, USCIS is accepting first-time applications for the DACA program due to a court ruling that requires them to do so. However, this could change if further legal challenges arise or if the Biden administration decides to take action on the program.

6. Will ending DACA save money for the government?

It is difficult to determine an exact amount as it depends on various factors such as enforcement costs and potential tax revenue loss from deporting young workers and students with higher education degrees. However, studies have shown that ending the program would result in significant economic losses for both individuals and the country as a whole.

2. How will reversing DACA affect U.S. citizens with undocumented family members?

Reversing DACA may have a significant impact on U.S. citizens who have undocumented family members. These individuals may be parents, siblings, or other close relatives who were brought to the United States as children and are now protected under DACA.

If DACA is reversed, these family members could be at risk of deportation or losing their temporary work permits. This could potentially result in separation of families, financial strain for those who rely on their undocumented family member’s income, and emotional distress for all parties involved.

In addition, some U.S. citizen children may also face challenges if their parents are deported or unable to work due to the reversal of DACA. They may experience disruptions to their education and daily routines, as well as potential economic hardships.

Furthermore, reversing DACA could create fear and uncertainty among U.S. citizens with undocumented family members, leading to increased stress and anxiety within these families.

Overall, reversing DACA would likely have negative consequences for many U.S. citizens with undocumented family members, causing disruption and hardship within families and potentially damaging the social fabric of communities across the country.

3. How are immigrant communities responding to the DACA reversal?

The response from immigrant communities to the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) reversal has been varied. Many DACA recipients and their families are devastated and afraid of the potential consequences of losing their immigration protections. Protests and rallies have taken place across the country, with DACA recipients, immigrant rights activists, and allies demanding that Congress pass legislation to protect Dreamers (undocumented immigrants brought to the US as children).

In addition to these public displays of resistance, many immigrant organizations are working to provide resources and support for DACA recipients. This includes legal clinics and know-your-rights workshops to help individuals understand their options and navigate the changing immigration landscape.

Some immigrant communities have also expressed frustration and anger towards those who voted for President Trump or supported his immigration policies, feeling that they have been betrayed by promises made during his campaign.

However, there are also supporters of the DACA reversal within immigrant communities. Some argue that it is important for the government to uphold laws and regulations regarding immigration, even if it means ending programs like DACA. Others may feel resentful towards those who entered the US illegally or overstayed their visas while they went through official channels to immigrate legally.

Overall, there is a sense of uncertainty and fear within many immigrant communities as they wait to see what actions will be taken regarding DACA in the future.

4. What are the legal options for undocumented immigrants if DACA is repealed?

If DACA is repealed, there are several legal options available for undocumented immigrants:

1. Applying for asylum: Undocumented immigrants who can demonstrate a well-founded fear of persecution in their home country due to their race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a particular social group may be eligible for asylum.

2. Obtaining a Green Card through family sponsorship: Undocumented immigrants who have immediate relatives who are U.S. citizens (such as parents or spouses) may be able to obtain a Green Card through family sponsorship.

3. Employment-based visas: Some undocumented immigrants may be able to obtain legal status through an employer-sponsored visa if they possess skills that are in high demand in the United States.

4. Cancellation of removal: Undocumented immigrants who have lived in the United States for at least 10 years and can show “exceptional and extremely unusual hardship” to their U.S. citizen spouse, parent or child if they were deported may be eligible for cancellation of removal.

5. Temporary Protected Status (TPS): TPS is granted to individuals from certain countries that have experienced natural disasters, armed conflicts, or other extraordinary conditions that make it unsafe to return home. If an undocumented immigrant’s home country is designated for TPS, they may be eligible for temporary legal status and employment authorization.

6. Deferred Enforced Departure (DED): DED is similar to TPS but is granted by executive action rather than by statute and does not require Congress’ approval.

7. Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS): Undocumented minors who have been abused, abandoned or neglected by one or both parents may be able to obtain permanent residency through SIJS.

It is important to note that each case is unique and the availability of these options will depend on individual circumstances. It is advised for undocumented immigrants facing the potential repeal of DACA to seek guidance from an experienced immigration attorney who can assess their specific situation and determine the best course of action.

5. What is the likelihood of undocumented immigrants being targeted for deportation without DACA?

6. What impact has the Trump administration’s immigration policy had on the undocumented immigrant community?
7. How has the narrative surrounding undocumented immigrants changed in recent years?
8. How does the issue of undocumented immigration intersect with other political and social issues, such as racial discrimination and economic inequality?
9. What role do employers play in perpetuating the hiring of undocumented workers?
10. How have state and local governments responded to federal immigration policies regarding undocumented immigrants?
11. In what ways do detention centers for undocumented immigrants violate human rights?
12. What are some potential solutions proposed for addressing the issue of undocumented immigration?
13. How does the DACA program benefit both individuals and society as a whole?
14. How do educational opportunities for undocumented students compare to those for citizens and permanent residents?
15. What challenges do undocumented immigrants face when seeking healthcare?
16. What are some common misconceptions about undocumented immigrants and how can they be challenged with facts and data?
17. In what ways do deportations affect families of mixed citizenship status?
18. How have countries in Central and South America been affected by US deportation policies towards their citizens?
19. What is being done to address root causes of migration from countries with high numbers of refugees, such as violence, poverty, and political instability?
20. How can advocacy efforts support the rights of undocumented immigrants and promote fair and humane treatment within U.S. immigration policy?

6. Is there a higher risk of deportation for DACA recipients who are not currently using the program?

This is a difficult question to answer definitively because there are many factors that can affect a person’s risk of deportation, and these factors can vary widely based on individual circumstances. However, in general, it is likely that DACA recipients who are not currently using the program may face a higher risk of deportation than those who are actively enrolled. This is because being enrolled in DACA provides certain protections and benefits, such as a temporary deferral of deportation and eligibility for work authorization. Without these protections, undocumented immigrants may be more vulnerable to deportation proceedings. Additionally, simply being undocumented can put individuals at increased risk of deportation compared to those who have some form of legal immigration status. However, the specific risks faced by an individual will depend on their specific situation and the policies and priorities of immigration enforcement agencies at any given time.

7. What can be done to protect undocumented immigrants from deportation without DACA?

1. Seek Legal Advice: Undocumented immigrants can seek legal advice from an immigration attorney or a non-profit organization that provides free or low-cost legal services. An attorney can help analyze the individual’s specific situation and determine if there are any other forms of relief available.

2. Apply for Asylum: Undocumented immigrants who have a credible fear of persecution in their home country can apply for asylum in the United States. This application must be filed within one year of entering the country.

3. Apply for Temporary Protected Status (TPS): TPS is granted to individuals from certain designated countries that are experiencing ongoing armed conflict, natural disasters, or other extraordinary circumstances. This status allows individuals to remain in the U.S. temporarily and work legally.

4. Seek Cancellation of Removal: Individuals who have been living in the U.S. for at least 10 years, have good moral character, and can demonstrate that their removal would cause extreme hardship to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse, parent, or child may be eligible to apply for cancellation of removal.

5. Explore Other Forms of Relief: Some undocumented immigrants may qualify for other forms of relief such as withholding of removal, adjustment of status through marriage to a U.S. citizen, or Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) depending on their specific circumstances.

6. Know Your Rights: It is important for undocumented immigrants to know their rights when interacting with immigration agents. They have the right to remain silent, consult with an attorney, and refuse entry into their homes without a warrant signed by a judge.

7. Participate in Protests and Activism: Supporting organizations and participating in peaceful protests and advocacy efforts can help bring attention to the issue and put pressure on lawmakers to find solutions to protect undocumented immigrants from deportation.

8. Are DACA recipients more likely to be deported if the program is reversed?

If the DACA program is reversed, it is possible that some recipients could face deportation. However, the exact impact would depend on how the reversal is implemented and whether alternative forms of protection or legal status are made available to DACA recipients.

9. How have ICE raids increased since President Trump rescinded DACA?

ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) raids have significantly increased since President Trump rescinded the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program in September 2017. Prior to DACA’s termination, ICE focused on apprehending and deporting undocumented immigrants who were deemed a threat to public safety or had a criminal record. However, with the end of DACA, ICE began targeting a wider range of undocumented immigrants, including those without criminal records.

According to data from ICE, in the fiscal year 2017 (October 1, 2016 to September 30, 2017), there were approximately 58,000 arrests of undocumented immigrants; about one third (20,000) of these arrests were non-criminals. In contrast, in fiscal year 2019 (October 1, 2018 – September 30, 2019), there were over a quarter million (267,258) immigration arrests; more than half (158,797) of these arrests were non-criminals.

Furthermore, ICE raids targeting employers have also increased since the end of DACA. In previous years under the Obama administration, ICE primarily focused on arresting and deporting individual undocumented workers. However, under the Trump administration’s policy shift towards tougher immigration enforcement measures and crackdowns on unauthorized employment practices by employers hiring undocumented workers; ICE has increasingly targeted worksites and detained arrested individuals for potential removal proceedings.

Overall, the number of ICE raids has significantly increased since President Trump rescinded DACA amidst his administration’s efforts to ramp up immigration enforcement and reduce illegal immigration. This increase in ICE raids has led to heightened levels of anxiety and fear within immigrant communities across the country.

10. Are children of undocumented immigrants with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) at risk of deportation if DACA is reversed?

Yes, children of undocumented immigrants with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) could be at risk of deportation if DACA is reversed. TPS is a program that provides temporary legal status to individuals from certain countries who are unable to return to their home country due to ongoing armed conflict, environmental disaster, or other extraordinary and temporary conditions. Children of TPS holders may not have the same protection under the law as DACA recipients and could potentially face deportation if their parent’s TPS status is terminated. However, the specific impact on TPS holders and their children would depend on the details of any potential changes to immigration policy.

11. Does repealing DACA mean that all undocumented immigrants will be subject to deportation?

No, repealing DACA does not automatically mean that all undocumented immigrants will be subject to deportation. The decision to deport an individual is based on various factors, including their criminal history, immigration status, and eligibility for other forms of relief or protection. Repealing DACA could potentially lead to increased deportations for those who were previously protected under the program, but it does not necessarily mean that all undocumented immigrants will be deported.

12. What is the impact of DACA reversal on small businesses owned by immigrants?

The impact of the DACA reversal on small businesses owned by immigrants is likely to be negative, as many business owners who are part of the DACA program may face deportation. This could lead to a loss of skilled and talented workers, as well as owners with valuable cultural and linguistic knowledge, within their respective communities. As a result, these small businesses may struggle to find replacements and maintain their level of productivity and success. Additionally, the uncertainty surrounding the future of DACA recipients may cause investors and customers to hesitate in doing business with immigrant-owned enterprises.

13. Will employers now face higher risks of prosecution for hiring undocumented workers without DACA?

Yes, the end of DACA may result in increased prosecution of employers who hire undocumented workers. The Trump administration has made it clear that they will aggressively enforce immigration laws and target employers who knowingly hire illegal immigrants. Without DACA, undocumented workers will lose their temporary work permits and may be more visible to authorities, increasing the likelihood of employer prosecution. Employers should continue to carefully verify immigration status and eligibility for employment before hiring any worker.

14. What steps do undocumented immigrants need to take to avoid deportation without the protection of DACA?

Undocumented immigrants without the protection of DACA can take the following steps to avoid deportation:

1. Seek legal counsel: Undocumented immigrants should seek the help of an experienced immigration lawyer who can advise them on their options and assess their eligibility for any relief.

2. Apply for other forms of relief: There may be other forms of relief that undocumented immigrants could be eligible for, such as asylum, cancellation of removal, or a U-visa.

3. Regularly check for updates in immigration laws and policies: Immigration laws and policies are constantly changing, so it is important for undocumented immigrants to stay informed about any changes that could affect their case.

4. Keep a low profile: Undocumented immigrants should avoid drawing attention to themselves by not breaking any laws or engaging in risky behavior.

5. Obtain necessary documentation: While undocumented immigrants may not have access to certain documents, they should try to gather as much evidence as possible to prove their presence in the country and ties to the community.

6. Obtain support from community organizations: There are many organizations that provide resources and support for undocumented immigrants facing deportation. These organizations can offer legal aid, emotional support, and information about rights and options.

7. Prepare an emergency plan: It is important for undocumented immigrants to have a plan in case they are detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This may include identifying a trusted family member or friend who can make decisions on their behalf if needed.

8. Do not sign any documents without consulting a lawyer: If approached by ICE agents, undocumented immigrants should remain calm and assert their right to speak with a lawyer before signing any documents.

9. Be prepared financially: Fighting deportation proceedings can be costly, so it is important for undocumented immigrants to start saving money or look into crowdfunding options if possible.

10. Stay vigilant: Undocumented immigrants should continue to monitor their situation closely and seek immediate legal assistance if faced with deportation proceedings or detention by ICE.

15. How will reversing DACA impact the lives of undocumented immigrants living in the U.S.?

Reversing DACA could have a huge impact on the lives of undocumented immigrants living in the U.S. Currently, DACA provides certain protections and opportunities for young undocumented immigrants, such as temporary protection from deportation and eligibility for work permits. Without these protections, many of these individuals would be at risk of being deported and losing the ability to legally work in the U.S.

Reversing DACA would also mean that many of these individuals who have grown up in the U.S. would no longer have access to education, healthcare, and other essential services. This could greatly affect their ability to build successful lives for themselves and contribute to their communities.

Furthermore, reversing DACA could have a significant emotional toll on these individuals, who have already faced numerous challenges due to their undocumented status. Many may feel uncertain about their future and may struggle with feelings of fear and insecurity.

Overall, reversing DACA would greatly disrupt the lives of undocumented immigrants who have established deep roots in the U.S., potentially causing them to lose their homes, jobs, and support networks.

16. How could President Trump’s plans for a “merit-based” immigration system affect those who would have been protected by DACA?

President Trump’s plans for a “merit-based” immigration system could potentially make it more difficult for individuals who would have been protected by DACA to enter or stay in the United States. This is because under a merit-based system, immigrants are evaluated based on factors such as education, skills, and work experience rather than their familial relationships or country of origin. This may disadvantage DACA-eligible individuals who may not have had the opportunity to pursue higher education or gain significant work experience due to their immigration status. Additionally, there is no guarantee that individuals with DACA or similar protections would be prioritized under a merit-based system, further jeopardizing their ability to remain in the United States.

17. How will the reversal of DACA affect the current process of applying for a green card or permanent residency in the United States?

The reversal of DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) will not directly impact the process of applying for a green card or permanent residency in the United States, as these processes are governed by separate immigration laws and policies. However, the revocation of DACA status may have implications for individuals who were previously protected under this program and could potentially affect their eligibility for certain immigration benefits.

If an individual with a pending green card or permanent residency application is also a DACA recipient, their DACA status being revoked may be seen as evidence that they do not have lawful immigration status in the US. This could potentially complicate their eligibility for a green card or permanent residency, as these applications generally require proof of lawful presence in the country.

Additionally, if someone was able to apply for a green card through marriage to a US citizen due to being protected under DACA, their loss of DACA status may make them ineligible for this route to obtaining legal permanent resident status.

Furthermore, the cancellation of DACA has caused uncertainty and fear among immigrant communities, which could lead some individuals to delay or avoid pursuing immigration benefits altogether. This could result in fewer eligible applicants and longer processing times for green cards and permanent residencies.

18. How will reversing DACA affect foreign students studying in the United States?

The decision to reverse DACA may have a direct impact on foreign students, as many of them rely on the program for protection and permission to remain in the United States. If the program is reversed, these students may lose their work permits, making it difficult for them to afford their education and potentially forcing them to leave the country.

In addition, if these students are undocumented or part of mixed-status families, they may face increased fear and anxiety about their immigration status and potential deportation. This could affect their ability to focus on their studies and negatively impact their academic success.

Furthermore, the reversal of DACA could also discourage future international students from choosing to study in the United States. They may see this as an indication that the country is hostile towards immigrants and individuals with uncertain immigration statuses.

Overall, reversing DACA could have a significant negative impact on foreign students studying in the United States by infringing upon their rights, creating uncertainty about their futures, and potentially dissuading others from pursuing higher education in the country.

19. Will repealing DACA result in an increase in family separations at the US-Mexico border?

Repealing DACA could potentially result in an increase in family separations at the US-Mexico border, as recipients of the program may be forced to return to their countries of origin, leaving behind any family members who are US citizens. This could also lead to families being separated if some members are DACA recipients and others are not.

Additionally, ending DACA could also lead to an increase in deportation proceedings for individuals who previously had protection under the program. If these individuals have family members who are US citizens or legal permanent residents, they may decide to leave with their DACA recipient relative rather than be separated.

It is important to note that family separations at the border have been ongoing for many years and will likely continue regardless of whether DACA is repealed, as immigration policies shift and change. So while repealing DACA may contribute to an increase in family separations, it is not the sole factor and there are other underlying issues at play.

20. How will reversing DACA impact state and local governments that have adopted sanctuary policies designed to protect undocumented immigrants?

Reversing DACA could potentially have a significant impact on state and local governments that have adopted sanctuary policies. These policies are designed to limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities in order to protect undocumented immigrants from deportation.

If DACA recipients lose their protected status, they could be at higher risk for deportation, which would increase the number of undocumented individuals within these communities. This could lead to increased fear and mistrust of law enforcement among immigrant communities, making it more difficult for local authorities to build relationships and maintain public safety.

Furthermore, reversing DACA could also create an economic strain on state and local governments. DACA recipients often contribute to the economy through paying taxes and holding jobs in various industries. If they were to lose their work permits, it could result in a decrease in tax revenue for these communities.

Additionally, many state and local governments have invested resources into programs and services specifically targeted towards DACA recipients. Reversing the program could potentially leave these entities with funding gaps or unused resources.

Overall, reversing DACA may have negative implications for state and local governments that have adopted sanctuary policies. It could strain relationships with immigrant communities, cause economic disruptions, and affect existing programs and resources.