WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Adam Smith (D-Wash) released the following statement after House passage of H.R. 6, the American Dream and Promise Act of 2021, which would provide vital protections for millions of immigrant youth, Dreamers, and TPS and DED holders.
“Immigrants make our country stronger, contributing to our economy, culture, and communities in countless ways. Nowhere is the importance of immigrants to the fabric of our communities more clearly demonstrated than in Washington’s 9th District. Unfortunately, inaction by Congress has resulted in many immigrants continuing to live in fear of being uprooted and denied basic services and protections in the United States. This is unacceptable.
“The American Dream and Promise Act would finally provide a pathway to citizenship for eligible Dreamers and immigrant youth, many of whom only know the United States as their home. The bill also creates a pathway to citizenship for eligible immigrants with TPS or DED status. Many TPS and DED holders have been in the United States for decades, raising families and building their lives here. Following four years of attacks on protections for immigrants and the erosion of our immigration system, this bill would provide long-overdue certainty to these immigrants.
“As we continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to remember that immigrants, including undocumented immigrants, have been frontline workers ensuring essential services like health care, food, and transportation remain possible. H.R. 6 finally recognizes the contributions of immigrants who have built lives and raised their families in this country and gives them the stability they deserve.”
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