By Molly Hennessy-Fiske
They were born in another country but raised in this one, and that has made them culturally, linguistically – but not legally American.
When President Obama used executive action to create the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, program four years ago, this was the group he was seeking to protect. They were, for the most part, children whose parents came to this country illegally, and either brought them along or sent for them later. Many had no recollection of their home country, spoke English, and argued that they should be given the rights and privileges of the only country they really knew, including temporary two-year work permits.
Conservatives argued that Obama had overstepped the bounds of executive power and had infringed on states’ rights. They objected to the idea of rewarding families who were, no matter how talented or well-meaning, in blatant violation of immigration law.
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