The Uncertain Future of DACA Recipients in the Midlands
Supporters of the Dreamer Act, otherwise known as DACA braved a mix of rain and sleet Saturday to gather in front of the State House in Columbia, South Carolina. The Todos Unidos event was publicized via Facebook to draw support for the cause from Senator Tim Scott. Scott previously has not shown solid support for keeping DACA leaving many recipients in South Carolina concerned for their futures.
Speakers at the rally shared personal stories and the fear of losing family members should a new bill fail to pass. To keep supporters warm, free hot chocolate with strawberry and pineapple flavored tamales were handed out. Dancers entertained the crowd in colorful dresses while some attendees live-streamed the event on Facebook Live. Although the crowd was small, it was noted that many supporters feared to attend the event due to the uncertainty of DACA’s future.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website states “DACA is ending” and applications for new enrollment are not being accepted. The current program will officially expire on March 5, 2018. Congress has until that time to re-develop a new DACA plan. Should a new bill fail, current recipients of DACA may face deportation afterward. The full memorandum of the decision to repeal can be read online here.
The effects of a failed attempt to fix DACA will be felt throughout the community as it is estimated that Hispanics and Latinos make up 5.5% of the state’s population. Organizers of the Todos Unidos Rally ask that supporters and recipients take to social media and ask for Senator Tim Scott’s support. Flyers handed out at the event included a list of legislative numbers to call along with email addresses.
Senator Tim Scott may be reached via telephone (DC office) at (202) 224-6121, or (803) 771-6112 (Columbia office.)
Tim Scott’s Twitter is located at https://twitter.com/SenatorTimScott