Undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as childrenface an uncertain future in Florida and across the country as the the federal program that's given them paperwork for school and jobs and shielded them from deportation faces a pivotal moment under the Trump Administration. Trump is expected to decide by Sept. 5 whether to end or renew the program known as DACA, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals.
The administration faces pressure from attorneys general of ten states to end DACA. Twice as many attorneys general have urged the president to continue the program. Initiated under executive order by former President Barack Obama, Trump pledged to end the program during his presidential campaign but has not made a final decision since taking office.
The end of DACA is especially worrisome for Florida college students. They are returning to campus this August to engage with administrators while facing escalating rhetoric on immigration and racial tension, all while the DACA program faces an uncertain future.
Reporter Crystal Chavezwith Orlando's WMFEjoins Gulf Coast Live to share her reporting on DACA students in Central Florida, how their campuses are responding to a possible end to DACA, and other immigration and racial issues on campus.
Also joining the program is Bryan Oliva-Infante of the FGCU "Dream Team," discussing his work with DACA students and other recipients in Southwest Florida.
And joining the program by phone is Isa Rodriguez, an organizer with the Florida Immigrant Coalition, who is working on outreach and education to DACA recipients across Florida.
