How DACA decision could impact local immigrant community

September 4, 2017 5:54 pm

By Alana Cerrone

acerrone@abc6.com

@Alana_Cerrone

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) – Some local immigrants who would be affected by the potential termination of The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals are speaking out ahead of President Donald Trump’s anticipated decision on the program.

Javier Juarez came to Rhode Island when he was ten years old.

He says DACA has given him the opportunity to contribute both socially and economically to the state and the country. Before the program, he couldn’t get a license, or go to work, unless it was “under the table”.

"It was a game changer I was able to get a license I was able to get a work authorization – I immediately got a job because I was educated up to that point."

Juarez says he has tried to apply for citizenship but in his 18 years here, he hasn’t been able to get it. He also says if DACA is terminated, the potential 6-month delay until enforcement would give him time to save money and figure out what his next step would be.

Groups are planning a rally in Providence tomorrow following President Trump’s decision.