HEAL’s Statement on the DACA Recision

Today the Trump administration announced the termination of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which for over five years has protected nearly 800,000 immigrant youth (DREAMers) and supported them to pursue their potential, and contribute fully to their families, communities, and nation.

Navina Khanna, Director of the HEAL Food Alliance issued the following statement:

“The HEAL Food Alliance stands with the 800,000 young immigrants affected by the rescinding of DACA, and with their families. These young people were brought to the United States as children, and grew up here. They are our classmates, co-workers, caretakers, friends, family, neighbors, and change makers. Their courage and organizing prowess has inspired us, and we are all better for their presence. 

Five years ago the U.S. government promised protection to these young people, saying that they could safely call this country home. This message was continuously reinforced by the Trump administration over the past eight months. Today’s announcement makes it clear that the President personally lied to the DREAMers by telling them they had no reason to fear deportation — and separation from parents, spouses, family, and friends — to countries many of them do not know. By terminating DACA today, the reckless Trump administration has once again chosen to put politics above humanity, and hate above reason, compassion, and community. The rescission of DACA is nothing less than petty white supremacy in action. We join the 76% of voters who support the DREAMers in doing everything in our power to resist this morally bankrupt act. 

Young immigrants are helping to shape the future of our nation. They are part of the backbone of our food systems, our technological innovations, our arts, and our culture. We call on Congress to permanently protect these youth, their families, and our communities of color. Now is the time to prove that we are stronger than the racism and inhumane policies that have come to define this White House. Reinstating DACA is only the beginning of the change we can make together.”

Statements from HEAL Food Alliance Members and Allies