The Benefits of DACA

By: Alexa Calderon    Feb. 3, 2018

 

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or “DACA”, was the immigration policy in America. This policy allowed illegal minors a two-year period of deferred action and an eligible work permit. Approximately 800,000 people were enrolled in DACA in 2017. The policy was approved by the Obama Administration in 2012, then revoked by the Trump Administration in September of 2017.

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The DACA policy helped many of individuals with work authorization. The policy not only benefitted undocumented young people but also the general economy. The DACA participants have made significant positive contributions to the economy. They earn higher wages, which translates to higher tax revenue as well as economic growth, and this benefits all Americans. Results have shown 72 percent of the 25 Fortune 500 companies hire DACA participants.

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The DACA participants have also

made an impact on employment.

Participants age 25 and older show

that employment rises to 93 percent.

This policy helps participants

reach their career goals. About 54

percent move on to a job that best

fits their long-term career goals

and the other 56 percent obtain a

job with better working conditions.

Not only do participants find a

better job that fits them but they

also begin their own businesses.

Data shows that about 8 percent begin their own business after receiving DACA.

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Education is key in pursuing a lifelong career. About 45 percent of participants are enrolled in school. Out of those currently in school 72 percent are working on a bachelor's degree or higher. Some of the majors participants are pursuing include law, environment science, civil engineering, neuroscience, computer science, and chemical engineering.

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The DACA members provide a positive financial effect on wages as well. Overall 69 percent of DACA members went from $10.29 to $17.46 per hour after receiving DACA. DACA members who are 25 and older have also received an 84 percent increase in their hourly wage. Their higher earnings benefit them and their families as well as tax revenues and their local state. A survey shows that 69 percent of respondents claim their increased earnings have helped them become financially independent.

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In conclusion, the DACA policy helped undocumented minors pursue their life-long American dreams. The policy offered them an education that opened many doors to a successful life. This policy also supported America by benefiting the U.S society and the U.S economy. The policy was revoked and is now affecting America, but most importantly illegal minors and their families. The economic growth will be negatively affected across America however these young people are still holding onto hope that one day the government will make a change.