But those who were never in removal have a fighting chance in the courts that are already seriously backlogged with pending cases, making their deportation a long-term prospect.
MALDEF is representing 22 DACA holders from Texas in defense of the program, against a lawsuit by Texas and 6 other states that sought to dismantle the program. The civil rights organization felt the Trump Administration, a defendant in that lawsuit, would not adequately represent the interests of DACA holders and asked the court to interview, which was allowed. That lawsuit is pending, and its resolution would depend on SCOTUS decision on the overall issue.
Tiffany Panlilio, DACA legal advisor for Asian American Advancing Justice , said that DACA holders “are scared and often have to choose between paying rent and renewing the benefit,” but that there is support for them to do it. “I am an immigrant and I have benefited greatly from public education,” Rodriguez said. “I invite undocumented students to enroll in our schools. I assure you that all your information is confidential, and we have taken steps to protect it.”
Without DACA, Nestor and his business could be affected, impacting thousands of jobs that he directly or indirectly creates with his company. And yet, he still believes in the future. “I am not afraid,” he said. “I trust our leaders. I am an entrepreneur, resident, father, husband and member of my community and of this American society and I want to continue being so”.