President Biden's recent announcement to shield some undocumented immigrants from deportation has ignited a wave of enthusiasm among Hispanic organizers on the left, reminiscent of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program's introduction in 2012. However, the move has also predictably attracted criticism from Republican quarters, who accuse Biden of electoral maneuvering by protecting the spouses and children of U.S. citizens.
Biden unveiled his new immigration plan at a White House event commemorating DACA's 12th anniversary. The announcement was made in the presence of key legislators and advocates, including Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) Chair Nanette Barragán, and Representatives Veronica Escobar and Sylvia García, all of whom have been vocal critics of Biden's border security policies.
"This is a good day," said Biden, introduced by Javier Quiroz Castro, a nurse and DACA recipient married to a U.S. citizen. The White House stage was packed with an array of influential figures, signaling the deep cultural significance of the announcement among Hispanic communities.
The new plan aims to streamline the process for undocumented spouses and children of U.S. citizens to apply for permanent residency, granting them three-year work permits and deferral from deportation. It also facilitates undocumented college graduates in applying for work visas with reduced risk of being stranded abroad.
Advocates are eager to leverage this victory to galvanize Latino voters in key battleground states such as Arizona, Nevada, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania. "We know that Pennsylvania is going to make or break the election, and we're here as CASA in Action because we are getting ready for a major electoral voter mobilization program," said Jossie Flor Sapunar, national communications director for CASA in Action.
The announcement has drawn sharp criticism from Republicans, who view it as a politically motivated move to secure Hispanic votes. Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, expressed disapproval, urging the U.S. not to support Tibetan independence and warning of "resolute measures" from China.
Despite the backlash, Democrats are optimistic about the policy's impact. "I just think that it's great policy, and I think it's going to turn out to be pretty impossible for Republicans to argue about," said Representative Greg Casar. The plan's emphasis on keeping families together is expected to resonate with many voters.
The plan has not only received broad support from advocates but also ignited personal hopes and stories among immigrants. Claudia Zúniga, who has been separated from her husband due to immigration laws, expressed her dreams of family reunification. "Imagine, it would be a dream come true," she said.
Similarly, Angelica Martinez, who watched Biden's announcement with her children, felt a mixture of joy and sadness recalling her husband's inability to visit Mexico during his mother's death. "Sadness, joy all at the same time," she said, reflecting the emotional impact of the policy.
The plan, however, comes with its limitations and eligibility requirements. Not all undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens will qualify, particularly those who have not lived in the U.S. for ten years. This has left some families, like Zúniga's, out of the relief package's scope.
Nonetheless, the announcement has reinvigorated the push for broader immigration reforms. Advocacy groups are calling for expanded Temporary Protected Status and relief for undocumented family caregivers. "These policies are well within your executive power," wrote 127 organizations in a letter to Biden.
As Biden's critics continue to voice their discontent, the administration is receiving full-throated praise from a key constituency. Vanessa Cárdenas, executive director of America's Voice, lauded the policy, calling it Biden's "DACA moment."
For many immigrants and their families, Biden's announcement represents a significant step forward. "Every step forward is a step towards a final resolution for all kinds of immigrant families," said Allyson Batista, whose Brazilian husband may soon be able to apply for a green card.
