The San Antonio Chamber of Commerce applauds the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to not permit an abrupt end to the Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. The Chamber has long championed programs and policies that cultivate, attract, and retain human talent. Additionally, many San Antonio business and education leaders have voiced their support of Dreamers in completing their education and joining the workforce, thus allowing them to fully integrate, thrive, and contribute to our community. This important population of young people matters. Today’s decision is a major victory in that fight for talent and is also an important recognition of the economic and cultural contributions of all immigrants.
The United States Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS) has reported Texas as having the second largest DACA population in the country, with approximately 5,100 calling the local San Antonio MSA home. With today’s ruling, these residents will be able to continue to call San Antonio home. The ruling also removes the yolk of fear and uncertainty which has stymied their enormous, and often underutilized, potential.
While today’s decision is a win for our community, it is not a complete solution. The San Antonio Chamber of Commerce will, therefore, continue to advocate for federal action that establishes a permanent solution allowing DACA recipients to receive lawful, permanent status, so they may lead their lives free of fear and continue contributing to our country’s prosperity. Our work continues, but today we celebrate!
Richard Perez
President and CEO
San Antonio Chamber of Commerce
