Unstoppable Dreams
#UnstoppableDreams #HomeIsHere
#UnstoppableDreams #HomeIsHere
English
While the future of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program hangs in the balance and we wait for the Supreme Court to rule on whether the program continues, people with DACA help their communities every day with their work, their ideas, and their presence. In this COVID-19 national emergency, people with DACA are among the nation’s essential workers, caring for patients in ICUs, driving delivery trucks, and picking crops in our farm fields.
As they continue to protect our nation, CHIRLA continues to advocate for them with elected officials and before the Supreme Court. Our legal department is also conducting limited online DACA renewal services as our capacity allows, through an online portal posted on Instagram at 8 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The appointment request form remains live until all appointment slots are filled.
We believe people with DACA are among the nation’s most important resources. We will continue to fight for them with everything we have. Want to join us? #UnstoppableDreams#HomeIsHere
COVID-19
CHIRLA's Federal, State and Local Response to COVID-19
On March 11, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic. The ensuing worldwide crisis exposed systemic weaknesses that hamper immigrant access to key services. Government at all levels must respond swiftly, compassionately, and equitably, always accounting for the unique challenges facing immigrants and refugees.
CHIRLA Advocating for All Immigrants
Watch Angelica Salas on Democracy Now (32:00)
WHAT WE DO
California’s Actions to Combat COVID-19
In the absence of inclusive and equitable relief for immigrants from the federal government during the emergency, CHIRLA joins 60 organizations in urging California to create a state response for immigrant communities including access testing treatment, and economic relief.
On March 19, Governor Gavin Newsom issued a stay-at-home order for all of California—the first in the nation. That week, the Legislature approved $1 billion in new spending to combat COVID-19.
In Newsom’s order, only essential industries and essential workers can operate. About one-third of California’s essential workforce is immigrant, and fills a crucial gap to help California meet this unprecedented challenge. Immigrants care for the sick and ensure our food security during the COVID-19 crisis. In 2016, almost one in four California doctors had graduated from a foreign medical school, a likely sign they were born elsewhere. Also, 121,141 of our nurses (36 percent) are foreign-born. Of the state’s nursing assistants, home health aides and psychiatric workers, 90,217 (44 percent) are foreign-born.
Sean Tan member of the California Dream Network, CHIRLA’s college state-wide youth program, to participate in She the People-Congressional Women of Color Town Hall focused on COVID-19 Relief in Congress. Sean spoke about his own experience, his concerns and asked Rep. Chu a question. Watch the video here (40 min mark).
CHIRLA is serving and protecting the immigrant community since 1986. We're a nonprofit organization that rely largely on your support to getting our work done. Please pledge your support today!