By Julián Lazalde, Civic Engagement Manager
The rescission of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program has thrown the lives of nearly 800,000 youth and young adults nationwide, including 42,376 recipients in Illinois, into great uncertainty. The Latino Policy Forum completely disagrees with the administration’s decision, but we and our allies will not be deterred in our collective desire for just and humane policies that positively impact immigrant communities and allies in Illinois and across the country. In the immediate wake of this decision we recognize that what is needed most by those directly impacted is reliable information and resources that will assist them and their family members in making timely and informed decisions.
Some immediate information to keep in mind is:
- US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is no longer accepting new applications for DACA – if you anticipated applying but did not do so before September 5, 2017 you are no longer able to apply.
- If your DACA is set to expire between September 5, 2017 and March 5, 2018, you will be able to renew your DACA status for another two year period, but the application must be submitted on or before Thursday, October 5, 2017.
- Despite the rescission announcement, your DACA and work permit remain valid until their expiration date – check your I-795 Approval Notice and your employment authorization document for the dates of expiration.
- Advanced parole to travel abroad is no longer available and pending applications for advanced parole will not be processed as of September 5, 2017.
Below is a listing of legal, educational and mental health resources for those most directly impacted by the rescission of DACA.
Legal Resources
- What Do I Need to Know About the End of DACA?
- Top 5 Things to Know About the Announcement That DACA is Ending
- Paying for DACA Renewal Fees
- Upcoming DACA sessions in Chicagoland area
- Family Support Hotline (855-HELP-MY-FAMILY; 855-435-7693)
- Text “DACA” to 630-524-4106 for a list of low cost legal service providers
- Illinois non-profit organizations offering immigration legal assistance
- Illinois immigration services directory
- Department of Homeland Security FAQs on DACA
Educational and Financial Aid Resources for Students and Families
- An Undocumented Student’s Guide to College
- Consolidated Scholarship and Resource Guide for Immigrant Students
- Illinois DREAM Fund
- Illinois Students Assistance Commission resources for undocumented students and families
Mental Health Support
- Lurie Children’s Hospital mental health resources listing
- Presentation – “Mental Health Resources for Marginalized Youth and Families“
Lastly, it is essential to contact your Representative and Senators Durbin and Duckworth to share your thoughts on the importance of DACA and finding a legislative solution to this pressing issue.
For more information on and updates on the future of DACA, please click here to visit the Forum’s Impacto page.
