Task Force responds to Obama administration announcement that it will stop deporting young undocumented immigrants

The Task Force responded to today’s announcement by the Obama administration that it will stop deporting some young undocumented immigrants.

The Task Force has long advocated for comprehensive and inclusive immigration reform, including the passage of the DREAM Act, which has stalled in Congress. In addition to the DREAM Act, the Task Force has been working in coalition with immigrant rights groups for immigration reform and passage of the Uniting American Families Act.

Statement by Rea Carey, Executive Director National Gay and Lesbian Task Force

We applaud the Obama administration for taking this monumental and inspiring step. It shows true leadership. It is heartening to know that hundreds of thousands of young people will no longer have to live in daily fear of being forced out of the country, away from the life and dreams they have built. Our country will be better for it.

This new policy will help ensure brighter and more secure futures for young people, including countless lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth. The United States is built on the value that everyone gets a fair shake to fully participate in civic life, and to be able to build a future in the country they love and call home. This policy does justice to this fundamental principle and to our common humanity.