Protect our families and communities; defend DACA youth

KFTC is guided by our vision for Kentucky, which includes our own dream of working for a day, “when discrimination is wiped out of our laws, habits and hearts.” And yet we are reminded daily of the discrimination that many Kentuckians face, including new immigrants.  

DACA – Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals – is an Obama administration program that allows undocumented immigrants who arrived in the U.S. as children to apply to stay in the country while they pursue their education or employment.

Ten days ago at our KFTC Annual Membership meeting we were inspired by the story of the Kentucky Dreamers Coalition, young immigrants here in Kentucky who are working to overcome discrimination and create opportunity for their members and communities. We were proud to award the Everett Akers and Joe Begley Award to Osvaldo Flores for his courage in leading the fight for recognition and protection of undocumented Kentuckians.

“This month will mark my 20th year living in the U.S. No one is to blame about my undocumented status as it is no crime for families to migrate in order to provide a better life for their children. My parents did just that and I appreciate their sacrifices to raise me in an environment that would allow me to reach success.

"DACA gave our community opportunity and dignity. But today, I feel betrayed and confused about the country I thought I knew. Which is why it is important to call your congressional representatives and urge them to not play with our lives as they have been for years. We are human and we deserve the dignity given to all. Urge them to pass a permanent law that will allow us to stay here with our families and so that all this nightmare can end.” – Osvaldo Flores

And yet, in spite of overwhelming and bipartisan support for DACA and the “Dreamers,” President Trump today announced his decision to end the (DACA) program. Thousands of Kentuckians, including KFTC members from Paducah to Pikeville, are appalled by this heartless decision, and are raising our voices in protest at rallies and vigils.

President Trump has delayed the termination of the program for 6 months in order to give Congress a chance to pass a law protecting DACA youth. Two laws already have been proposed: the Bridge Act, which would extend DACA for three more years, in order to give Congress more time to pass a permanent law; and the Dream Act, which would create a path to citizenship for DACAs and other immigrant youth.

Take Action

As KFTC members, we can make our individual and collective voices heard.

1.  Call on our U.S. Senators Mitch McConnell and Rand Paul, and your representative (see list above right) urging them to "pass legislation, such as the Dream Act, to protect DACA youth."

2. Support Kentucky groups working on immigrants rights and DACA such as the Kentucky Dream Coalition and Mijente Louisville, or national groups such as Movimiento Cosecha and United We Dream.

3. Go to vigils and direct actions in your community.

THANKS FOR TAKING ACTION