H906 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 EXPRESSING HOPE FOR AN colleagues to join me in honoring these Mike Love’s leadership, I ask that we IMPROVED IMMIGRATION SYSTEM selfless professionals. honor him again as a father, a husband, (Mr. CURTIS asked and was given f an environmentalist, and, yes, a man who has given us the most beautiful, permission to address the House for 1 DEBT JUNKIE SPENDING BILL minute.) layered music of American modern his- (Mr. BROOKS of Alabama asked and tory as it continues 55 years on. Mr. CURTIS. Madam Speaker, I real- was given permission to address the f ize that few policy topics are more ten- House for 1 minute.) uous and challenging than immigration Mr. BROOKS of Alabama. Madam ASKING FERC TO DO WHAT IS reform, but I believe, before us now, is Speaker, Republicans won the House in RIGHT FOR DOWNEAST MAINE a unique window of opportunity that 2010 in part because of the danger posed (Mr. POLIQUIN asked and was given will allow us to solve some of these by America’s 4-year string of trillion- permission to address the House for 1 complex problems. dollar deficits. minute and to revise and extend his re- We can make this a historic time for House Republicans sliced America’s marks.) our country. As we come together to deficit to $438 billion in 2015, but then Mr. POLIQUIN. Madam Speaker, find solutions for more than 800,000 our finances took a dramatic turn for Downeast Maine, along the Canadian DREAMers, we need to take advantage the worse. America’s deficit surged to border, is one of the most stunningly of this moment to also address addi- $585 billion in 2016 and $666 billion in beautiful parts of the world, but, sadly, tional aspects of our broken immigra- 2017. Congress is expected to soon vote it is also one of the poorest. tion system. My hope is that Congress on a debt junkie spending bill that During the past 30 years, Madam will pass a bill that provides certainty blows America’s deficit sky-high by Speaker, most of our paper mills in for DREAMers while also bringing hundreds of billions of dollars in 2018 Maine have closed because of high meaningful improvements to our visa alone. taxes, harmful regulations, unfair programs for seasonal workers and our Madam Speaker, there is a narrow trade, and a declining demand for highly skilled immigrants, along with path between adequate national secu- paper. However, Madam Speaker, the providing resources for enhanced bor- rity funding and avoiding a national Woodland Pulp and tissue mill is doing der security. insolvency that decimates our military quite well: 500 well-paying jobs with We know that not every special in- and risks American lives. That path is benefits, the largest private sector em- terest group will get everything they as narrow as Zion National Park’s An- ployer in Washington County, in want, but I believe, if we work to- gels Landing Trail. One misstep left or Downeast Maine. gether, we can give the American peo- right and you fall hundreds of feet to Today, Madam Speaker, the Federal ple exactly what they expect: an im- your death. Government has a chance to help. proved immigration system that we The Senate spending bill is a debt Since 1836, the Woodland mill has man- desperately need. junkie’s dream, a nightmare, and a misstep that plunges America into dis- aged an upriver Forest City water stor- f aster. It must not pass. age dam to make sure the river and the lake levels in the area are properly RECOGNIZING SCHOOL COUNSELOR f DANA ZAPANTA AND DESIG- maintained, and this makes sure that HONORING FOUNDING MEMBER OF the fragile and world-class salmon and NATING THIS WEEK NATIONAL THE BEACH BOYS, MIKE LOVE SCHOOL COUNSELING WEEK bass fisheries are protected. But now, Madam Speaker, the Fed- ´ (Mr. ISSA asked and was given per- (Ms. SANCHEZ asked and was given mission to address the House for 1 eral Energy Regulatory Commission is permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his re- demanding that the Woodland mill minute and to revise and extend her re- marks.) spend $6 million on a fish ladder and marks.) Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I come to other requirements in order to renew ´ Ms. SANCHEZ. Madam Speaker, I the House floor today to speak about a its license. But the dam already has a rise to recognize the tireless work of husband, a father, an avid environ- fish ladder that works fine, and it does school counselors across the country mentalist with over 55 years’ experi- not generate any electricity for the and in the 38th District of California, ence in just one profession. Madam mill, and it cannot afford the $6 million whom I am honored to represent. These Speaker, I come here to speak about price tag for these unnecessary require- public servants guide students through and to honor the life of Mike Love, a ments. academic, social, and personal develop- founding member of The Beach Boys, Now, the Maine Legislature, Madam ment. one of the most popular music groups Speaker, has already voted to allow Dana Zapanta, a counselor at Artesia of all time, a group that has enter- Maine Inland Fisheries & Wildlife to High School in my district, is exactly tained us on The Mall of the Capitol assume control of the dam to make the type of champion that students more than any other band in history, a sure this wildlife habitat and the prop- need. Dana, a 12-year counseling vet- patriotic group that speaks in lyrics erty owners are protected and that the eran, has been instrumental in the de- that are timeless. mill can continue to prosper without velopment of Artesia’s Career Tech- Love has spent an extraordinary 55 these undue and unnecessary regula- nical Education program. She also co- years and counting as the group’s lead tions. ordinates numerous events, including singer and one of its principal lyricists, Madam Speaker, I ask today, right AP Student Night and college fairs. with 13 gold albums, 55 Top 100 hits, now, that FERC do what is right and Thanks in part to her unwavering com- and 4 singles alone. He, himself, wrote allow the transfer of the ownership of mitment to students, the graduation the lyrics to the great pop classics this dam from the mill to the State of rate is nearly 99 percent. ‘‘Good Vibrations,’’ ‘‘California Girls,’’ Maine, which solves this critically im- Despite the important contributions ‘‘Surfin’ USA,’’ and ‘‘Kokomo,’’ for the portant problem in one of the poorest counselors like Dana make every day, father. areas of the country. counseling positions are not always The Beach Boys, from their Cali- f protected when local budgets are cut. fornia roots, have, in fact, been a glob- The average student-to-counselor ratio al ambassador for California and for MORTGAGE CHOICE ACT OF 2017 in our Nation’s public schools is almost America. But more importantly, at a Mr. HENSARLING. Madam Speaker, double the ratio recommended by the time in which words are sometimes pursuant to House Resolution 725, I American School Counselor Associa- vulgar or unintelligible, that is never call up the bill (H.R. 1153) to amend the tion. the case with The Beach Boys. They Truth in Lending Act to improve upon Students deserve to have the support sing of the greatness of our country, of the definitions provided for points and of school counselors like Dana. That is our lands, and particularly of Cali- fees in connection with a mortgage why I am proud to introduce a resolu- fornia. transaction, and ask for its immediate tion to designate this week as National So, with the unprecedented success consideration. School Counseling Week. I urge my and continuation of this band under The Clerk read the title of the bill.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:20 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.002 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H907 The text of the bill is as follows: I would like to start out thanking culated by excluding fees paid for af- H.R. 1153 my colleague, the gentleman from filiated title charges and escrow Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Michigan (Mr. HUIZENGA) for his tire- charges for insurance and taxes. That resentatives of the United States of America in less leadership on this issue, having would, therefore, Madam Speaker, in- Congress assembled, ushered this very same legislation crease homeownership opportunities SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. through our committee in three dif- for borrowers by allowing more loans This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Mortgage ferent Congresses. to meet the QM standard. Choice Act of 2017’’. The purpose of H.R. 1153 is simple: to Let’s not just listen to me, Madam SEC. 2. DEFINITION OF POINTS AND FEES. provide much-needed regulatory red Speaker. Let’s listen to our community (a) AMENDMENT TO SECTION 103 OF TILA.— tape relief to our community financial financial institutions that we expect to Section 103(bb)(4) of the Truth in Lending institutions so they can serve their help our constituents. A credit union Act (15 U.S.C. 1602(bb)(4)) is amended— customers; so they can provide them from Washington explained how this (1) by striking ‘‘paragraph (1)(B)’’ and in- more mortgages. This is a straight- was affecting everyday Americans. serting ‘‘paragraph (1)(A) and section 129C’’; They wrote: ‘‘A member at our credit (2) in subparagraph (C)— forward piece of legislation. It is prac- (A) by inserting ‘‘and insurance’’ after tical, it is necessary, and, Madam union wanted to buy down his rate on ‘‘taxes’’; Speaker, it is bipartisan. his mortgage with cash out of pocket (B) in clause (ii), by inserting ‘‘, except as Now, you may hear today, Madam at closing in order to lower the pay- retained by a creditor or its affiliate as a re- Speaker, from some of our Democratic ments for his retirement. However, sult of their participation in an affiliated colleagues that ‘‘we oppose the bill.’’ doing so would have made his total business arrangement (as defined in section We heard that claim in the Rules Com- points and fees higher than allowed 2(7) of the Real Estate Settlement Proce- mittee earlier this week. But I do find under ATR/QM, and there was no allow- dures Act of 1974 (12 U.S.C. 2602(7))’’ after it interesting that no amendments able way around the problem.’’ ‘‘compensation’’; and (C) by striking clause (iii) and inserting were offered during committee mark- From my native Texas, a community the following: up, nor were any amendments offered banker wrote in and said: ‘‘The great- ‘‘(iii) the charge is— at the Rules Committee. I remind all est frustration our customers have is ‘‘(I) a bona fide third-party charge not re- on the House floor, Madam Speaker, our bank’s inability to now make home tained by the mortgage originator, creditor, that the Financial Services Committee loans. For years we made loans to peo- or an affiliate of the creditor or mortgage favorably reported this bill to the ple for the purchase of their homes. We originator; or House with a strong bipartisan vote of would do about one every other week. ‘‘(II) a charge set forth in section 46–13, which means almost half of the So it was not a large volume. It was a 106(e)(1);’’; and (3) in subparagraph (D)— Democrats on our committee supported good service. We always made these (A) by striking ‘‘accident,’’; and this bill; and in the 113th Congress, loans to keep in our loan portfolio. We (B) by striking ‘‘or any payments’’ and in- Madam Speaker, this bill passed by never sold any home loans, but with serting ‘‘and any payments’’. voice vote—not a single objection. the new requirements for home loans, (b) AMENDMENT TO SECTION 129C OF TILA.— Madam Speaker, this bill would help it has driven us out of this kind of Section 129C of the Truth in Lending Act (15 make homeownership more affordable business. It has also taken us out of the U.S.C. 1639c) is amended— for working Americans and would pro- construction lending on homes because (1) in subsection (a)(5)(C), by striking ‘‘103’’ mote access to affordable mortgage we cannot risk the risk of a takeout and all that follows through ‘‘or mortgage credit for low- and moderate-income originator’’ and inserting ‘‘103(bb)(4)’’; and commitment failing. The consumer is (2) in subsection (b)(2)(C)(i), by striking families and first-time home buyers. It the loser.’’ ‘‘103’’ and all that follows through ‘‘or mort- does this while continuing to protect Indeed, that is true, Madam Speaker. gage originator)’’ and inserting ‘‘103(bb)(4)’’. consumers. As I mentioned earlier, Mr. HUIZENGA SEC. 3. RULEMAKING. The Mortgage Choice Act is needed has worked on this bill for the past two Not later than the end of the 90-day period because the CFPB wrote a flawed and Congresses again. In the 113th Con- beginning on the date of the enactment of problematic definition that grossly gress, it passed by voice vote. It passed this Act, the Bureau of Consumer Financial miscalculates points and fees. The re- by an overwhelming majority of 286–140 Protection shall issue final regulations to sult is that many mortgage loans, par- in the 114th Congress. I trust the third carry out the amendments made by this Act, ticularly those for low- and moderate- time will be the charm. and such regulations shall be effective upon income borrowers, would not meet the I urge all of my colleagues to do what issuance. standards of a qualified mortgage and is right for our constituents and to The SPEAKER pro tempore (Ms. ROS- thus not get made. pass H.R. 1153 to provide open access LEHTINEN). Pursuant to House Resolu- Currently, CFPB rules include affili- for Americans to purchase a home. tion 725, the gentleman from Texas ated title charges under a 3 percent cap Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- (Mr. HENSARLING) and the gentlewoman when determining whether a mortgage ance of my time. from New York (Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ) each is a qualified mortgage, but it doesn’t Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. will control 30 minutes. include unaffiliated. This does not Madam Speaker, I yield myself such The Chair recognizes the gentleman make sense. The CFPB rules are detri- time as I may consume. from Texas. mental, again, to low- and moderate- Madam Speaker, I rise today in oppo- GENERAL LEAVE income borrowers and first-time home sition to H.R. 1153, the so-called Mort- Mr. HENSARLING. Madam Speaker, buyers since they are more likely to gage Choice Act of 2017. I ask unanimous consent that all Mem- have smaller loan amounts and, there- Unfortunately, this bill is yet an- bers may have 5 legislative days within fore, more easily trigger the 3 percent other attempt to undermine the strong which to revise and extend their re- cap. consumer protections Democrats estab- marks and submit extraneous material That means under the current defini- lished under the Dodd-Frank Wall on H.R. 1153, currently under consider- tion, many mortgage applicants will be Street Reform and Consumer Protec- ation. denied homeownership opportunities tion Act, taking us back to the days of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there simply because they do not fit into the the subprime bubble. objection to the request of the gen- government box; or the only mortgages While some of my colleagues on the tleman from Texas? in the alternative available to them other side of the aisle have forgotten There was no objection. might be at far higher interest rates, those days, I haven’t. I remember how making them unaffordable for many. In predatory lenders targeted b 0915 other words, the CFPB’s defective defi- unsuspecting home buyers by hiding Mr. HENSARLING. Madam Speaker, nition has ended up protecting many fees and obscuring loan costs, tricking I yield myself such time as I may con- consumers right out of their oppor- them into exploding mortgages and sume. tunity to buy a home. locking them into loans that they real- Madam Speaker, I rise today in sup- H.R. 1153, from the gentleman from ly couldn’t afford. port of H.R. 1153, the Mortgage Choice Michigan (Mr. HUIZENGA), would Millions of home buyers were steered Act of 2017. change the way points and fees are cal- into high-cost, subprime loans even

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:20 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.003 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H908 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 when they qualified for prime mort- that trapped borrowers in loans they of creating more ways for these gages, and lenders didn’t even bother couldn’t afford and that led to the fi- megabanks, like Wells Fargo, to gouge to verify whether or not borrowers had nancial crisis. American consumers. the ability to repay their mortgages. The points and fees cap included When Congress considered this same They weren’t required to do that, so under the QM definition includes, measure last term, the Obama adminis- they didn’t. The end result was ramp- among other things, real estate-related tration issued a veto threat, stating ant fraud on a massive scale to mil- fees paid to affiliates of the lender for that the bill ‘‘risked eroding consumer lions of foreclosures and a tremendous services, such as property appraisals, protections and returning the mort- loss of generational wealth, particu- settlement services, and title insur- gage market to the days of careless larly for Black homeowners. Some of ance. Fees paid to affiliates of the lend- lending focused on short-term profits.’’ my constituents are still struggling er pose greater risks to borrowers since Madam Speaker, buying a home is and trying to recover from the finan- lenders cannot steer borrowers directly likely the largest purchase most con- cial devastation that occurred during to their affiliates without open com- sumers will ever make. For this reason this financial crisis. petition, and higher prices charged by alone, Congress should absolutely re- The last thing Congress should do is affiliates directly benefit the lenders. ject proposals like H.R. 1153 that would to open the door to a return to these Affiliate title insurance is especially permit residential mortgage lenders to fraudulent and harmful policies, yet problematic. The title insurance indus- take advantage of borrowers trying to that is exactly what H.R. 1153 would try is notoriously opaque. Due to a achieve the American Dream. do. This bill seems like a technical fix lack of competition and readily avail- Finally, a long list of groups, includ- to allow affiliated title insurance and able information on terms and pricing, ing civil rights groups, such as the settlement services firms to be ex- consumers do not shop around for title NAACP and the Leadership Conference cluded from the qualified mortgage insurance as they might for other prod- on Civil and Human Rights, as well as rule’s 3 percent cap on upfront points ucts and services. Megabanks, like consumer groups at the National, and fees paid by borrowers. But make Wells Fargo, have used title insurance State, and local level, like Americans no mistake, there is nothing technical to take advantage of consumers for Financial Reform, National Con- about this. In fact, this bill would through illegal kickbacks schemes. sumer Law Center, and the Center for allow title insurance companies to jack The Consumer Bureau took an en- Responsible Lending, all oppose this up prices on borrowers and allow lend- forcement action in 2015 against Wells so-called Mortgage Choice Act. ers to receive what would otherwise be Fargo and JPMorgan Chase, ordering So for all of these reasons, I strongly illegal kickbacks. those megabanks to pay more than $24 urge my colleagues to join me in oppos- Under this bill, lenders, including re- million in civil penalties and more ing H.R. 1153. peat offender megabanks, like Wells than $11 million to consumers harmed Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- Fargo, would have new opportunities by their kickback schemes with Gen- ance of my time. to reap huge financial profits at their uine Title, a now defunct title com- Mr. HENSARLING. Madam Speaker, customers’ expense by steering them pany. I yield myself 10 seconds to say that, if into costly title insurance policies that At the time, Director Cordray said: the ranking member would read sec- have no cap on fees whatsoever. ‘‘These banks allowed their loan offi- tion 8(a) of RESPA, she would realize Prior to the enactment of Dodd- cers to focus on their own illegal finan- everything she said was false because it Frank, lenders were able to earn tre- cial gain rather than on treating con- prevents any fee, kickback, or thing of mendous profits through lucrative sumers fairly. Our action today to ad- value. kickbacks paid by their affiliates. The dress these practices should serve as a Second of all, what she describes as a Real Estate Settlement Procedures warning for all those in the mortgage harmful and fraudulent policy was sup- Act, or RESPA, prohibits giving a fee market.’’ ported by half of her Democrats, in- kickback or thing of value in exchange Madam Speaker, these kickback cluding her vice ranking member, Mr. for a referral of business related to a schemes continue despite Congress’ ef- KILDEE from Michigan. real estate settlement service. But this forts to shut them down, and would Madam Speaker, I yield 6 minutes to kickback prohibition does not apply to likely increase if H.R. 1153 is enacted. the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. affiliated companies of lenders, like a Because H.R. 1153 would remove fees HUIZENGA), who is the sponsor of the title insurance firm. To avail them- that are charged by a lender’s affiliate legislation and the chairman of the Fi- selves of this kickback loophole, some title insurance company from the QM nancial Services Subcommittee on lenders have bought or created busi- fee cap, the bill directly encourages Capital Markets, Securities, and In- nesses to enable them to profit directly lenders to, once again, steer borrowers vestments. from the relationship. to their affiliates so they can extract So Dodd-Frank established the re- even more money from them. b 0930 sponsible underwriting practice of re- Now, supporters of the bill argue Mr. HUIZENGA. Madam Speaker, I quiring lenders to verify a borrower’s that, because individual States provide rise today in support of H.R. 1153. ability to repay when they originate a adequate regulation over the title in- As someone who worked in the hous- loan. Dodd-Frank also enabled lenders surance industry, it is unnecessary, ing industry, in fact, for the third gen- to obtain some legal protections when they say, to have additional safeguards eration, this is a very important issue making residential mortgages if those related to affiliated title companies to me and, more importantly, to all of loans are considered a qualified mort- and the fees they charge. However, re- our constituents across the country. gage or QM. search from the National Association The qualified mortgage/ability-to- To be considered QM, a loan must of Insurance Commissioners shows that repay rule, as mandated by the Dodd- have terms and conditions that are un- State laws do not, by themselves, offer Frank Act, went into effect in January derstandable to borrowers and not con- robust protection to consumers with 2014. This QM rule is the primary tain predatory features considered to title insurance. More than half of all means for mortgage lenders to satisfy be unfair or deceptive. QM loans, for States don’t even collect data from its ability-to-repay requirements. Ad- example, can’t be interest-only loans, title agents. Some States have ‘‘no par- ditionally, Dodd-Frank provides that a longer than 30 years, or have balloon ticular standard’’ for determining QM may not have points and fees in ex- payments. Specific to the bill we are whether title insurance rates are ade- cess of 3 percent of the loan amount. considering today, the amount of up- quate, and even a couple, like Illinois So far, so good. front points and fees on QM loans can- and Arkansas, do not regulate title in- As currently defined, however, points not exceed 3 percent of the total surance rates at all. and fees include, among other charges: amount of the loan. Congress should be strengthening salaries paid to loan officers; loan level In short, QM loans are supposed to be prohibitions on kickbacks, not weak- price adjustments, as the chairman was low risk, prudently underwritten, and ening them. We should enable bor- talking about, which are traditionally free from the type of features associ- rowers to get the best price, terms, and known as points; payments by lenders ated with those predatory mortgages conditions on mortgage loans instead to correspondent banks, credit unions,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:20 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.005 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H909 and mortgage brokers in wholesale mote access to affordable mortgage ance do not count as ‘‘points and fees.’’ The transactions; and, as has been dis- credit for low- and moderate-income legislation is needed to ensure that smaller cussed, fees paid to affiliated, but not families and, indeed, all families, espe- loans to creditworthy low and moderate-in- unaffiliated, title companies; and—this cially first-time home buyers, by en- come consumers can select the mortgage lender and title insurance provider of their is the one that is most bizarre of all— suring that safe, properly underwritten choice and obtain a ‘‘qualified mortgage,’’ amounts of insurance and taxes held in mortgages pass the QM test. the gold standard for all mortgages. escrow. That counts towards that 3 per- Whether or not you supported Dodd- The bill authorizes the Consumer Finan- cent. Frank, it is clear that the law is going cial Protection Bureau to implement rules As a result of this confusing and to require some tweaks to ensure quali- governing the exclusion of reasonable title problematic definition, many affiliated fied borrowers aren’t locked out of insurance charges from ‘‘points and fees.’’ It loans, particularly those made to low- home ownership and the beneficial fea- preserves the Bureau’s strong enforcement and moderate-income borrowers, would authority to require transparency and dis- tures of a qualified mortgage. closure of affiliations and charges under the not qualify as QMs. Without that des- The QM represents the best mortgage Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act ignation, it is unlikely the loan would on the market. It is the gold standard. (RESPA). In fact, the CFPB has been vig- be made. And if it were, it would only And it should be the gold standard. We orous in its pursuit of RESPA violations, be available at higher rates, due to the should want more responsible people ranging from minor disclosure errors to heightened liability risks. Consumers getting QMs, not fewer. kick-backs for referrals by an unaffiliated would lose the ability to take advan- Quite frankly, this is something we title company. tage of the convenience and market ef- We urge you and the entire Senate to should all agree on. In fact, we did last quickly adopt the Mortgage Choice Act to ficiencies offered by one-stop shopping. year. Our bill doesn’t touch any of the improve access to credit, enhance competi- Hardworking Americans utilize one- CFPB’s strict underwriting criteria. It tion among title insurance providers, and re- stop shopping every day. They partake doesn’t, in any way, suspend a lender’s inforce the CFPB’s authority to define what in it. For example, in west Michigan, legal requirement to determine that a title insurance costs qualify as excludable we have the headquarters of Meijer. It borrower has the ability to repay that ‘‘points and fees.’’ is a great regional supermarket chain, loan. Sincerely, and it is where families across the Mid- The ranking member points out a David Scott; Maxine Waters; Emanuel west go to buy groceries, pick up Cleaver; Henry Cuellar; Daniel T. Kil- real problem that happened in the in- dee; Jim McDermott; Patrick Murphy; clothes for the kids, and pick up auto dustry and that, frankly, many of us in Gerald E. Connolly; Michael F. Doyle; parts. It is one-stop shopping that al- the industry warned of, but this does Betty McCollum; Gregory W. Meeks; lows you to get just about everything nothing that allows State regulated Gary C. Peters. you need for your home. title insurance to be violated or any of Mr. HUIZENGA. In the letter, she Well, purchasing a home is one of the those Federal steps regarding the stated that the bill would ‘‘improve ac- most important decisions a family qualified mortgage. It, in no way, side- cess to credit’’ and ‘‘enhance competi- makes. Why shouldn’t they have the steps RESPA or QM requirements. tion among title insurance providers.’’ same ability to take advantage of that Mr. Speaker, I must admit that I am Well, I couldn’t agree more with the same cost-effective convenience of one- completely baffled by the ranking ranking member. stop shopping when buying a home? member’s new opposition to this bill. She talks now of kickbacks. I am I, along with Representative GREG- This bill was very carefully negotiated confused as to how an affiliated title ORY MEEKS, reintroduced H.R. 1153, bi- in order to receive bipartisan support, structure, pricing structure, versus an partisan legislation to modify and clar- which the ranking member voted for unaffiliated title purchase is somehow ify the way points and fees are cal- previously. In fact, she was so sup- a kickback. culated and help families across Amer- portive that she, along with 11 other I am confused at how an escrow, ica to one-stop shop. Democrats from the committee, sent a money that is ours that is put into a This legislation is narrowly focused letter, dated August 1, 2014, to the Sen- holding account to be used later to pay to promote access to affordable mort- ate urging them to ‘‘quickly adopt the off debt, is a kickback. gage credit without overturning the Mortgage Choice Act.’’ The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. important consumer protections and Mr. Speaker, I include in the RECORD DONOVAN). The time of the gentleman sound underwriting required under the letter of August 1, 2014. has expired. Dodd-Frank’s ability-to-repay provi- HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I sions. As the chairman pointed out, Washington, DC, August 1, 2014. yield the gentleman from Michigan an also. The RESPA provisions that are DEAR MAJORITY LEADER REID, CHAIRMAN additional 30 seconds. Federal law stay in place. JOHNSON AND MEMBERS OF THE SENATE COM- Mr. HUIZENGA. Mr. Speaker, I wish Very similar legislation overwhelm- MITTEE ON BANKING, HOUSING, AND URBAN AF- I had time to yield to the gentlewoman ingly passed the House of Representa- FAIRS: On June 9, the House passed the Mort- to hear that answer. tives last Congress as well as in the gage Choice Act (H.R. 3211), on the suspen- She is talking about megabanks. sion calendar without objection. Senators 113th. This is, frankly, just a red herring in I think it is important to note that Manchin and Johanns introduced a com- panion bill, S. 1577 in October, but it has not this whole thing. when we first introduced this bill in yet been considered. We support the Mort- Congress has the opportunity to help 2012, it looked substantially different. gage Choice Act because of our concern more Americans realize a portion of However, working with my colleagues about lower-income consumers’ access to the American Dream, not by some on the other side of the aisle, we credit and their ability to select the mort- grandiose law or decree, but by simply worked together to improve the legis- gage and title insurance providers of their reforming a burdensome regulation. lation. The result has been a truly bi- choice. Home ownership has been a pillar in partisan effort at every step of the way Passage of H.R. 3211 represents the fourth American life for generations. Today, in the legislative debate. time that the House has approved virtually identical legislation without objection. In we can reaffirm that pillar and reassert Specifically, H.R. 1153 would do a 2007 and 2009, a Democratic House majority that home ownership can and should be couple of things. It would provide equal passed essentially the same provision in the an attainable goal. treatment for affiliated versus unaffili- Miller-Watt-Frank anti-predatory lending Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague, ated title fees. It doesn’t change the 44 legislation, and then a third time as part of Representative MEEKS, and many oth- States that have a regulated title in- the House’s version of the Dodd-Frank Wall ers who have worked so tirelessly on surance cost structure. It doesn’t Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act this to fix this flawed provision, and I change any of those costs that a home- in 2010. encourage all of my colleagues to vote owner would have. It just allows them The Mortgage Choice Act simply excludes for H.R. 1153. the cost of title insurance from the defini- to actually go lower, rather than high- tion of points and fees under the Truth in Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. er. Lending Act regardless of whether a title in- Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time It also clarifies the treatment of in- surance agent is affiliated with a mortgage as I may consume. surance held in escrow. These two sim- lender or not. It also clarifies that funds held Mr. Speaker, I would like to correct ple, commonsense changes will pro- in escrow for the payment of property insur- the chairman.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:20 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.008 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H910 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 He said that RESPA prohibits kick- markets. This bipartisan legislation in support of anything that would backs. While RESPA prohibits paying does so by clarifying and recalibrating cause a home buyer to have to pay kickbacks to third-party title agen- the points and fees limitations in- more money in fees when they are tak- cies, the law does not prohibit pay- cluded in the Dodd-Frank qualified ing out a mortgage. ments to affiliated title firms. This mortgage framework. On a $400,000 mortgage, you are talk- incentivizes a title agency to be affili- The current situation doesn’t make ing about you want to go beyond a ated so it can gain the payment option sense, Mr. Speaker. If a consumer $12,000 cap, which is 3 percent? Why without violating RESPA, including af- chooses an unaffiliated title insurance would you want to do that to a home- filiated title insurance fees in the QM provider, the transaction doesn’t count owner? defines points and fees caps, provides towards points and fees. But if that What we are saying is, under QM and important market pressure to control consumer chooses to work with an af- what we worked so hard to establish, costs for consumers, and supports ac- filiated provider, it does. was to put a cap on all of these fees so cess to credits. Despite what you may hear, this ar- that the homeowners, the home buyers, By the way, when we talk about bitrary stipulation in the points and would not be paying more than 3 per- RESPA, we are talking about the real fees definition doesn’t protect con- cent of that mortgage. estate settlement procedures that de- sumers. It punishes them by limiting We think that is fair. fine all of this. and, in some cases, eliminating mort- Now you want to open up the flood So let’s be clear again that, while gage and housing options, pushing gates so that these title companies can RESPA prohibits paying kickbacks to more and more loans farther and far- increase the amount of that they are third-party title agents, the law does ther away from QM status. Like too charging and go beyond the 3 percent. not prohibit payments to affiliated many of the rules handed out by the How much higher do you want it to title firms. CFPB, it is the consumer that loses. go? Do you want them to be able to go Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Simply put, the goal of H.R. 1153 is to up to 4 percent or 5 percent with these my time. help low-and middle-income borrowers homeowners who are paying Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I as well as prospective first-time buyers downpayments and who are trying to yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from realize the American Dream: owning get into homes? Why is it you want to Missouri (Mr. LUETKEMEYER), chairman their own home. expand beyond a 3 percent cap on the of the Financial Services Sub- I thank the gentleman from Michi- average hardworking home buyer in committee on Financial Institutions gan for his leadership on this issue. I this country? and Consumer Credit. urge strong support for the legislation. I don’t get it. I don’t understand it. Mr. LEUTKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of want to start by thanking the gen- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time. tleman from Michigan (Mr. HUIZENGA). my time. Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I He has worked on this bill for some Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from time, and I appreciate his commitment yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman Pennsylvania (Mr. ROTHFUS), the vice to the issue of access to mortgage cred- from Missouri (Mrs. WAGNER), the chair chairman of the Financial Services it. His background is such that he un- of the Committee on Armed Services Subcommittee on Financial Institu- derstands this issue, being in the real Subcommittee on Oversight and Inves- tions and Consumer Credit. estate business and the retail develop- tigations. b 0945 ment business. So this is something he Mrs. WAGNER. Mr. Speaker, H.R. is passionate about and really has an 1153, the Mortgage Choice Act, provides Mr. ROTHFUS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in-depth knowledge of. needed clarity to the calculation of today to express my support for H.R. I know Mr. HUIZENGA has seen in points and fees for qualified mortgages, 1153, the Mortgage Choice Act. As a co- Michigan what I have seen in Missouri or QM, especially for those companies sponsor of the bill and the vice chair- and around the Nation: the regulatory affiliated with real estate brokers. man of the Financial Institutions and regime governing the mortgage market Established under the ability-to- Consumer Credit Subcommittee, I is growing overly complex and becom- repay/QM section of the Truth in Lend- strongly encourage my colleagues to ing, as a result, inaccessible for far too ing Act, H.R. 1153 would amend the def- support its passage. many borrowers. inition of points and fees and allow As we all know, community financial In a Financial Institutions Sub- more loans to qualify, thus increasing institutions continue to close or merge committee hearing held earlier this choices for all borrowers. at an alarming rate. We just saw an ar- year, we had a situation where a credit Chairman HUIZENGA’s bipartisan leg- ticle the other day that about 1,700 union executive came in and had a islation does not create a QM loophole branches across the country have huge file about 3-inches thick. I asked like some would argue. Instead, H.R. closed, and to go through some of the him: Can you tell me how many pages 1153 rightly attempts to level the play- towns in western Pennsylvania where are in that file? He said: Congressman, ing field, regardless of whether the you see the only branch closed is strik- we no longer measure by the page; we lender is affiliated with a title agency ing. measure by the pound. That is how out or not. As we all know, community financial of whack our system has become with In addition, H.R. 1153 does not allow institutions continue to close or merge regard to trying to make home mort- high-cost loans to qualify as QMs. By at an alarming rate. Bit by bit, fami- gage loans. allowing loans with the same points lies across America are losing access to These regulatory burdens associated and fees to be treated equally under vital financial products like home with making home loans have forced the law, Chairman HUIZENGA’s bill cor- mortgages. Regulations like the quali- many institutions completely out of rects one of the many flaws of the post- fied mortgage, or QM rule, make it the market altogether. I have a num- Dodd-Frank era. even harder for Americans to get a ber of banks in my area that no longer Thanks to the Mortgage Choice Act, mortgage and realize the dream of make home loans because of these it will now be easier for low- and mod- homeownership. overly burdensome rules and regula- erate-income Americans to buy a For small mortgages, points and fees tions and costs that have to be passed home. I commend my colleague, Chair- can often exceed 3 percent, which leads onto the consumers. man HUIZENGA, for his bipartisan work these mortgages to be designated as The CFPB’s qualified mortgage rule on this issue, and I urge all Members to higher priced non-QM loans. This dis- has had particular success in limiting support this legislation. courages financial institutions from access to mortgage credit for many Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. lending to Americans with moderate consumers who may otherwise be Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time incomes and first-time home buyers; deemed to be qualified borrowers. The as I may consume. that is why, because loans aren’t there. Mortgage Choice Act seeks to change Mr. Speaker, for the life of me, I can- Chairman HUIZENGA’s bill wisely ad- some of this by increasing competition not understand why my colleagues on dresses this issue by excluding several in the mortgage and title insurance the opposite side of the aisle would be items from the calculation of QM

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:20 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.009 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H911 points and fees. The bill excludes The rule promulgated by the CFPB courage all of my colleagues to join in charges paid to an affiliate of the lend- czar limits consumer options, causes supporting this bipartisan solution. er for title examination or title insur- consumers to pay more, and does noth- Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. ance services and insurance premiums ing to make mortgages any safer. It is Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time held in escrow. this sort of illogical rulemaking that as I may consume. By excluding these items from the makes Michiganders more and more My friends on the opposite side of the calculation, the bill will allow more frustrated by what they see in Wash- aisle just dislike qualified mortgage. loans to qualify as QM, opening up ington. We need to ensure that our gov- They dislike QM. And a lot of the argu- more credit to potential home buyers, ernment prosecutes fraud, predatory ments that you have heard had nothing and it will facilitate one-stop shopping. lending, and unethical practices, but it to do, really, with this bill, itself, but This is good for the community finan- should not be in the business of under- more with the fact that they have al- cial institutions that many Americans mining an industry that plays such a ways wanted to dismantle the Con- rely on for their financial service prod- critical role in the dream of homeown- sumer Financial Protection Bureau, ucts. It will help our constituents back ership. who has the responsibility of imple- home access the funds they need to ac- You know, when mortgages become menting QM. complish the dream of homeownership. more expensive, it is America’s low- So they will talk about everything Chairman HUIZENGA’s legislation pro- and middle-income families that suffer from access to credit to you name it, vides smart, targeted relief from the the most. Homeownership is the cor- but it has nothing to do with the fact unintended consequences of burden- nerstone of the American Dream. It that they are here with a bill that is some regulations. Again, banks aren’t builds communities, provides families trying to open up opportunities for af- making loans. We want to encourage with stability, and, hopefully, creates filiated title companies to be able to those first-time home buyers, the mod- equity for retirement. The government charge home buyers more money than erate-income home buyers to be able to should be helping this dream, not cre- would be allowed under QM. have access to mortgages. That is why ating silly, illogical obstacles. The fact of the matter is we have a 3 I support this bill, and I again urge my Over the past several years, I have percent cap on all points and fees in colleagues to vote for the Mortgage worked with my colleagues to refocus the legislation that we created to pro- Choice Act. the Bureau on its core mission of pro- tect homeowners—3 percent. Why is it Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. tecting consumers. I am glad that Act- they want to open it up so that home Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time ing Director Mulvaney has begun to do buyers have to pay more than 3 percent as I may consume. so, and I am encouraged that Congress on all of these points and fees? I don’t think I heard my colleague is doing its part to rein in this rogue As a matter of fact, I get questions correctly when he said that this bill bureaucracy. all the time, particularly from first- had something to do with encouraging This bill does nothing to threaten the time home buyers asking me: What are first-time home buyers. It has nothing underlying safety of the QM rule and all these points and fees that I have to to do with encouraging first-time home does not erode vital consumer protec- pay? Do you mean to tell me that on a buyers. tions. It simply helps ensure that con- $400,000 loan, they are going to rip off As a matter of fact, if we proceed sumers have choices to reduce their $12,000 on points and fees or more? And with this bill that is before us today mortgage costs along the way. we have to explain that we have kept it that they are supporting, it will dis- Now, the ranking member opposes to 3 percent. courage first-time home buyers and this bill, as she believes it will usher in But now they want to open up the home buyers in general because what a new era of fraudulent subprime, dan- floodgates, and they want to say that they are doing is they are increasing gerous loans riddled with kickbacks these affiliated companies can charge the possibility for more points and fees and inflated title fees. I am not sure more on points and fees as it relates to that have to be paid when we have a how money held in escrow would ever title insurance. So I am opposed to it. cap now at 3 percent, which any rea- be a kickback, and her description of And for those who did not under- sonable person would know makes good the title industry is completely incor- stand, who may have voted because of sense. rect. It is a highly regulated industry the way that is oftentimes presented Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of in most States, and the State that she by the opposite side of the aisle—and, my time. mentioned, Illinois, is extremely com- as a matter of fact, it is obscured in Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I petitive and extremely regulated. the way that they present it in talking yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from I am not sure what bill the ranking about trying to help homeowners, try- Michigan (Mr. TROTT), a member of the member believes we are debating ing to protect homeowners, trying to Financial Services Committee. today, but the Mortgage Choice Act open up opportunities. It has nothing Mr. TROTT. Mr. Speaker, I rise in will not result in any of the problems to do with any of that. support of the bipartisan, common- she describes—all great scare tactics, This is because the title insurance sense Mortgage Choice Act, sponsored great theater, a great political sound people who have wielded their influ- by the Congressman from Michigan bite, but, unfortunately, all fiction, all ence have come here to change the law (Mr. HUIZENGA). Mr. Speaker, I am inaccurate. Her flip-flop on this bill is so that they can raise those rates and proud to be a cosponsor of this legisla- at least, at the minimum, very puz- charge more money and have kick- tion, which will make mortgages more zling; but, if everything she says is cor- backs, et cetera, et cetera. This is what affordable for low- and moderate-in- rect, I certainly feel bad for all the this is all about. come families. Democrats. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of In the wake of the financial crisis, The SPEAKER pro tempore. The my time. Congress directed the CFPB, the Con- time of the gentleman has expired. Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I sumer Financial Protection Bureau, to Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from create a definition for so-called quali- yield an additional 30 seconds to the Ohio (Mr. DAVIDSON), a hardworking fied mortgages. Congress wanted to en- gentleman from Michigan. member of the Financial Services Com- sure that consumers were not sold Mr. TROTT. Mr. Speaker, I feel bad, mittee. predatory loans and that good faith in- if everything she says is true, for all Mr. DAVIDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise vestors were not buying mortgages de- the Democrats who unanimously today to offer my support for H.R. 1153, signed to fail. passed this bill in the 113th Congress. the Mortgage Choice Act. This bill is Unfortunately, the Bureau’s rule- Mr. Speaker, the American people de- another example of a rollback of the making drove originators from the in- serve better than a partisan discussion burdensome regulations of Dodd-Frank dustry and made loans more expensive about something that is nothing more and, many would say, unintended con- in the process. This burden will fall than a technical correction of an unin- sequences. mostly on low- and middle-income fam- tended consequence. The 113th Congress, as Mr. HUIZENGA ilies, the very people the CFPB was Again, I thank my friend, Mr. reported out—apparently, the Member created to help. HUIZENGA, for his leadership, and I en- opposed feels that her colleagues were

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:20 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.011 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H912 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 confused in the 113th Congress when We heard about all of them: no-docu- QM rule is intended to protect lenders they unanimously supported this very mentation loans where they didn’t from legal liability and provide compli- same procedure, this same change to even know where the consumer, the ance certainty for mortgage loans that Dodd-Frank. Apparently, all of Presi- homeowner was going to get their are low risk and meet certain criteria. dent Obama’s supporters were also con- money from; they did not vet them, One of those criterion requires a mort- fused into forgetting to make the big they did not know their employment gage loan’s total points and fees not to investments they have made as a reac- history, and on and on and on. be in excess of 3 percent of the loan’s tion to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act that So the Consumer Financial Protec- value. was recently enacted. So confusion tion Bureau is absolutely carrying out Unfortunately, the points and fees must be rampant, but let me clarify the work of what Dodd-Frank was in- rule often depends on who is making what this does. tended to do, and that is to reform all the loan and how title insurance is ob- It doesn’t do the things that the of this and to make sure that con- tained, which is confusing for both con- Member opposed accuses it of doing. sumers are treated fairly, to make sure sumers and businesses providing these Frankly, the market prevails here, not that consumers are not ripped off, to services. Also, as has been mentioned, price controls from Washington, D.C., make sure that consumers don’t have a insurance premiums held in escrow are nor a substitute that would say a non- whole list of these fees and points be- considered points and fees under the affiliated company could offer the fore they can even get their QM rule, which is ridiculous. That is exact same product that the one-stop downpayments, incredibly, and have to like saying that a parent who puts shop is barred from offering. pay over 3 percent and more in these money in for a 529 savings plan for his So rather than have a simple proce- points and fees as they are trying to children’s education is a car payment dure where a borrower could work with access a mortgage. or a mortgage payment. It doesn’t one lending institution, they are forced b 1000 make sense, but it discourages con- to this array that resembles the This is all about keeping the cap on sumers from using this important fi- healthcare industry, where, instead of the 3 percent for all of those points and nancial management tool. getting one bill from one visit, you fees. If you do what this bill is intended H.R. 1153 would address these unin- show up to do a mortgage and you get to do, you are saying that you are tended consequences and provide clar- a bill from five or six different entities, opening up the opportunity for these ity for borrowers and businesses. I am and it makes it more confusing. points and fees to be increased because also confident that the CFPB, under The market lets people shop and say, of these affiliated companies that want the leadership of Mick Mulvaney, will ‘‘Hey, maybe I could get this product to take the cap off. I don’t know how ensure that this clarification is effec- from someone else,’’ but, unfortu- better to explain that. tively implemented if this bill is en- nately, without this change, it blocks My friends on the opposite side of the acted into law. hardworking families from working aisle would charge consumers more Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to with one relationship to close on their with this bill. We on this side of the support this commonsense fix so that mortgage. It adds one more piece in the aisle are opposed with that. We are we can get the policy right and address web of documentation required, and it saying that it is not fair to consumers. the unintended consequences arising adds one more thing to negotiate in the What you need to do is let Dodd-Frank from the future rule. relationship that is necessary to close reforms work so that we can protect Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. on a mortgage. our consumers and not have them Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the The QM rule should not stand for gouged and increase the amount of gentlewoman from California (Ms. ‘‘quitting mortgages.’’ It should stand money they have to pay in these points PELOSI), the Democratic leader. Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, I thank for ‘‘qualified mortgages.’’ The applica- and fees. tion of this has resulted in small and Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of the gentlewoman for yielding, and I community banks quitting the mort- my time. congratulate her on her extraordinary gage market for certain types of loans, Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I leadership as the ranking Democrat on and this is hurting the families that am very pleased now to yield 3 minutes the Financial Services Committee. She the Member opposed says she seeks to to the gentleman from South Carolina has been a champion for America’s help. (Mr. NORMAN), a cosponsor of the legis- working families, protecting con- I urge all of my colleagues to unite lation and a great friend of the Finan- sumers, protecting the taxpayer, and and support this rational, limited cial Services Committee. doing so in a very balanced way, sen- modification that lets the market work Mr. NORMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise sitive to the needs of all parties con- the way the market can work for the today to speak in favor of H.R. 1153, the cerned. I am so proud of her leadership hardworking families of America. Mortgage Choice Act of 2017. and her service. Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. This bipartisan legislation is essen- Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time tial to help low- and middle-income the bad bill for hardworking Americans as I may consume. families gain access to qualified mort- that is on the floor today. The cyni- Try as they may, they cannot explain gages. I commend Chairman HEN- cally named Mortgage Choice Act pro- to anyone why it is they want to open SARLING and Congressman HUIZENGA for vides anything but choice. Instead, it up the opportunity for these affiliated their work on shepherding this bill raises costs on consumers who have few companies to charge more on these through the legislative process. alternatives. This is yet another at- title loans. Policymaking is complex, and Con- tempt to stack the deck even further As a matter of fact, again, I am going gress and Federal regulators do not al- against working families. to keep reminding everyone who is lis- ways get it right. We need to some- Mr. Speaker, this debate is another tening that, under Dodd-Frank, under times make changes to address new waste of time. Every day, courageous, the work of the Consumer Financial issues and unintended consequences patriotic DREAMers lose their status, Protection Bureau, under the qualified that arise. and, every day, the American dream mortgage rule, all of the work that was As we have seen for the past few slips further out of reach. As Members done after this country found itself in years, the Dodd-Frank Act—and let me of Congress, we have a moral responsi- a position of where we were in a reces- add that there are many of us in the bility to act now to protect DREAM- sion, almost a depression because of real estate business and on bank boards ers, who are the pride of our Nation what we had allowed to happen in this who saw the effects of Dodd-Frank not and are American in every way but on country from some of the biggest allowing banks to go into the commu- paper. banks and financial institutions in the nities that need them the most—con- I use this occasion as opposing this world, we discovered that there were tains certain provisions that fit one or bill to speak further about social jus- all kind of exotic loans, all kind of dif- both of these categories and must be tice in America. The American people ferent kinds of loans that were put to- changed through legislative action. want Congress to pass a Dream Act: gether to entice consumers and home One of these policies is the CFPB’s Eighty-four percent of Americans buyers to take out these mortgages. qualified mortgage, or QM, rule. The support a path to citizenship for

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:20 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.012 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H913 DREAMers or permanent status; 88 We all know how proud we are of mented American aspiring to earn a percent of Independents back the path America, as a land of opportunity and bachelor’s degree in graphic design. of citizenship or permanent status; and the land of the American Dream, Her education is her priority ever since 70 percent of Republicans back either which, for decades and centuries, real- she was in elementary school. citizenship or permanent status. ly, has attracted people to our shores, Throughout high school, she had seri- The three Bs—business; badges, our to make the future better for their ous doubts about her future, due to her law enforcement community; and Bi- families. In doing so, they subscribe to status, but it never stopped her from bles—are imploring Congress to pass a the vows of our Founders. ‘‘A new order pursuing higher education. Jacqueline Dream Act. of the ages,’’ it says, on the great seal went on to community college, work- Earlier this month, I stood with of the United States, a new order, ing a part-time job and earning a few evangelical leaders to call on the ‘‘Novus Ordo Seclorum.’’ That meant scholarships that eventually added up Speaker to bring the Dream Act to a that it was predicated on the idea that to affordable tuition. Her mother, a vote for the sake of family fairness and every generation would take responsi- single mother, would not be able to respect for the spark of divinity within bility to make the future better for the contribute to Jacqueline’s education every person. next. after high school, so it was There is nothing partisan or political It became known as the American Jacqueline’s choice and responsibility about protecting DREAMers. If a Dream and people flocked to our to work her way financially through Dream Act were brought to the floor, it shores, bringing their determination, college. Thanks to scholarships like would pass immediately with strong, their optimism, their hope, and their the Illinois Dream Fund, bipartisan support. I commend my Re- courage, to make the future better for TheDream.US, and other community publican colleagues for their courage their families. In doing so, as I said, scholarships, Jacqueline was lucky to in speaking out on this, yet our they subscribed to the values of our follow through higher education, some- DREAMers hang in limbo with a cruel Founders to make the future better. thing that most of her undocumented cloud of fear and uncertainty above That is why our country would be a peers would not have the chance to do. them. new order for the ages. Jacqueline’s dreams are the same The Republican moral cowardice How proud we are to have the Statue dreams of other undocumented Ameri- must end. Members of Congress are of Liberty welcoming people to our cans to persevere in this great country. trustees of the people and of our Na- shores. In the words of Emma Lazarus Hector Rivera Suarez is a DACA re- tion. inscribed on the statue, it says: cipient from Greensboro, North Caro- Why are we here if not to protect the Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame, lina. He has been a DACA recipient for patriotic young people who are deter- With conquering limbs astride from land to the past 6 years. This came to an end mined to contribute and to strengthen land; on January 21. He is currently on track America? Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall to graduate in May, with a degree in So I am going to go on as long as my stand philosophy and education. As a student leadership minute allows. A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame body president and honor scholar at Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name I would like to speak to the Bible in Guilford College, it is part of his cur- Luke 10:25–37, the parable of the Good Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand Glows worldwide welcome; her mild eyes riculum to serve in the local commu- Samaritan. command. . . . nity. He has served as an afterschool On one occasion, an expert of the law stood tutor at a local community center that up to test Jesus. Words that are music to the ears of everyone who loves freedom. services predominantly the Latino ‘‘Teacher,’’ he asked, ‘‘what must I do to community, as well as assisting in inherit eternal life?’’ ‘‘Keep ancient lands, your storied pomp!’’ ‘‘What is written in the law,’’ Jesus re- cries she classrooms at a newcomer school. His plied, ‘‘How do you read it?’’ With silent lips. ‘‘Give me your tired, your plan after graduation is to enroll in The lawyer answered: ‘‘Love the Lord, your poor, Teach for America, since it is his only God, with all your heart, with all your soul, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe opportunity to be a teacher while being with all your strength, with all your mind, free, a DACA recipient. Once DACA was re- and love your neighbor as yourself.’’ The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. scinded in September, these plans had Jesus responded: ‘‘You have answered cor- Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to to be delayed. Without DACA, he will rectly. Do this and you will live.’’ me, not have the opportunity to keep serv- But he wanted to justify himself, so he I lift my lamp beside the golden door!’’ ing the community in greater ways. asked Jesus: ‘‘And who is my neighbor?’’ With those words, America has been In reply, Jesus said: ‘‘A man going down b 1015 from Jerusalem to Jericho. When he was at- a beacon to the world, and how proud it tacked by robbers, they stripped him of his has made us. America is great, some Hector’s DACA expires 5 days before clothes, beat him, and went away, leaving say, because America is good; and this the Teach For America January dead- him half dead. A priest happened to be going manifestation of our goodness is one line; this is why he needs there to be a down the same road, and when he saw the that is historic. resolution as soon as possible so he can man, he passed on to the other side of the In responding to the call of our Stat- move forward with his plans of men- road. So, too, a Levite, when he came to the ue of Liberty—who must, by now, have toring the future leaders of America. place and saw him, passed on to the other tears in her eyes, having heard some of side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came Mr. Speaker, I bring this up because, where the man was, and when he saw him, he the debate on immigration—I want to as you know, the discussions and nego- took pity on him. He went to him and ban- read about some of the DREAMers, tiations on the caps bill, the budget daged his wounds, pouring oil and wine. And who came to our shores, maybe bill, are making progress and, perhaps, then he put the man on his own donkey, through land or by sea. soon to be coming to an end. And on brought him to an inn and took care of him. I want to talk about Luis Galvan. that score, I would say so far as what The next day, he took out two Denarii and Luis came to the United States when I know of it, the budget caps agree- gave them to the innkeeper. Look after him, he was 5 years old and grew up in pov- ment, which will be announced today, and when I return, I will reimburse you for erty. Today, he is an agriculture am- any extra expense you may have. Which of includes many Democratic priorities, these three do you think was a neighbor to bassador at College of the Sequoias and actually bipartisan priorities. the man who fell into the hands of robbers?’’ is working to help students improve But with the disaster recovery pack- The expert of the law replied: ‘‘The man their grades. Following the repeal of age and dollar-for-dollar increases in who had mercy on him.’’ DACA, Luis constantly worries about the defense and nondefense budget, Jesus told him: ‘‘Go and do likewise.’’ his ability to continue working in Democrats have secured hundreds of The parable of the Good Samaritan is order to afford his education. He is one billions of dollars to invest in commu- one that has been used over and over of four siblings also attending college, nities across America. There will be again to welcome strangers. Samari- who are also DACA recipients. billions in funding to fight opioids, to tans were not friends to the person Jacqueline Romo’s DACA expires this strengthen our veterans and the NIH, that the Samaritan saved, but he was a month. Jacqueline was raised in the to build job-creating rural infrastruc- man of justice. city of Chicago. She is an undocu- ture and broadband, and to fund access

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:20 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.014 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H914 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 to child care and quality higher edu- say to those on His right, ‘Come, you ary 20. Because of this, she will now cation. That is something that has who are blessed by my Father; take have to take a semester off from been negotiated with our input be- your inheritance, the kingdom pre- school, and she is facing severe disrup- tween Leader MITCH MCCONNELL and pared for you since the creation of the tion in her life and the ability to sup- Leader CHUCK SCHUMER. world.’’ port herself. But MITCH MCCONNELL also made a Then Christ goes on to say: This is really important to note be- commitment to his Members that he ‘‘For I was hungry and you gave me cause the people—some of the people in would bring up a dream bill to the floor something to eat. I was thirsty and you the White House have been saying no- of the Senate in an appointed time. So gave me something to drink. I was a body is being deported. Well, we will why can’t we have some kind of a com- stranger and you invited me in. I need- see about that. But they are saying mitment on this side of the aisle that ed clothes and you clothed me. I was these people are protected. enabled the discussion to take place on sick and you looked after me. I was in They are not protected. And you a values-based place? prison and you came to visit me. heard the characterization that the Here, we asked the Speaker would he ‘‘Then the righteous will answer him, President’s Chief of Staff made about bring up the Hurd-Aguilar bill, which is ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and some of these people, about being lazy bipartisan, would win if brought to the feed you, or thirsty and give you some- or whatever it was. House, has a sufficient number of Re- thing to drink?’ ’’ I think, in our discussions on the publican cosponsors, thank them for And the Lord says, when you see us— economy, in a separate context, we their courage to be public, but others what did you see, a stranger and invite have seen how few Americans would be who have said they would vote for it, him in or need clothing and clothing able to rise to the occasion imme- and we would like a commitment from you, he’s asking the Lord. And when diately if they had a $500 unsuspected the Speaker to bring it and any other did you see sick and in prison, and did bill that had come their way; whether bills that he believes should be consid- I visit you? the water heater broke or whatever it ered on the floor as well. ‘‘The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell is, it would be challenging, it would be We could do it under a ‘‘Queen of the you, whatever you did for one of the disruptive to their lives. It would be Hill’’ where the bill with the most least of these brothers and sisters of hard for them to have an expendable, votes becomes the most prevailing bill mine, you did for me.’ ’’ immediately expendable, $500. But that to either support what the Senate has That is always important. Everybody is what it takes to sign up to what the done or to reconcile what the Senate knows that, the least of my brethren President—the sign up that was re- has done. speech. quired by the President after his Sep- That is a simple request. That is a However, the King does go on: ‘‘Then tember announcement. simple request that the House Demo- he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart So it is not about being lazy. Or yes, crats and, in a bipartisan way, others from me, you who are cursed, into the it is probably about fear, too. Mr. have joined in asking the Speaker to eternal fire prepared for the devil and Kelly, General Kelly, mentions that. bring a bill to the floor to give us that his angels. For I was hungry and you But it is about not understanding the commitment. gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty situation of fear and of contribution, Why should we, in the House, be and you gave me nothing to drink, I the beautiful contribution that people treated in such a humiliating way, was a stranger and you did not invite make, that the DREAMers make to our when the Republican Senate leader has me in, I needed clothes and you did not country. given that opportunity, in a bipartisan clothe me, I was sick and in prison and Itzel came to the U.S. legally at age way, to his membership? you did not look after me.’ 7. She came legally and attempted to What is wrong? There is something ‘‘They also will answer, ‘Lord, when adjust her status along with family. wrong with this picture. That is why, did we see you hungry or thirsty or a She aged out of eligibility when she this morning, when we took a measure stranger or needing clothes or sick or turned 21. She was able to apply for of our caucus on support for the pack- in prison, and did not help you?’ DACA during her senior year of high age—well, we have to see all the par- ‘‘He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, school, which opened the doors for her. ticulars of it yet, but there are good whatever you did not do for one of the In Albuquerque, New Mexico, Dalia things in it—that it does nothing to least of these, you did not do for me.’ ’’ Medina immigrated to the United even advance, even with a commit- It is not only positive of what you States at age 11 from Mexico. She is a ment, without having passed the legis- did, you did for me; it is what you did licensed mental health therapist pro- lation first, to advance bipartisan leg- not do. When I was a stranger, you did viding much-needed service to at-risk islation to protect DREAMers in this not help. youth and families in New Mexico. House. Then it will go into eternal punish- Dalia is working toward an inde- Without that commitment from ment. The righteous will go into eter- pendent license to open her private Speaker RYAN, comparable to the com- nal life. practice to continue aiding families in mitment from Leader MCCONNELL, this So anyway, more stories about our her State. She recently obtained a package does not have my support, nor DREAMers and why they honor the master’s degree in clinical social work does it have the support of a large vows of our Founders, why they de- and previously earned a bachelor’s de- number of members of our caucus. serve our support. We are just talking gree in criminology and psychology. So then I go on to some other—I al- about this discrete group of people, All of these people are making such a ways am reminded in all of these de- how they command the support of the wonderful contribution to our society bates about our commitment to faith. American people. because they have courage, they have In God We Trust, it says there right Itzel Verduzco Rojas is from Ponca values, and they have purpose in their over the Speaker’s chair. City, Oklahoma. Itzel is working as a life. These stories were given to me by The Gospel of Matthew has been an medical assistant for a pediatric der- our colleagues as they have taken up inspiration to many of us on both sides matologist and in school full time try- the cause of many of these DREAMers. of the aisle in terms of what our values ing to pursue a career in nursing. In But it is not enough. are and how we make choices. And addition to her job and school, Itzel We have no right to talk about when, in the Gospel of Matthew, he volunteers with CASA, City Rescue DREAMers and to tell their stories and writes: ‘‘When the Son of Man comes in Mission, and Rebuilding Together take pride in their actions unless we His glory, and all the angels with Him, Oklahoma City to address issues of are willing to take action to support He will sit on His glorious throne. All poverty and homelessness in her city. them, and we have that opportunity the nations will be gathered before With DACA, Itzel was able to apply today by asking the Speaker of the Him, and He will separate the people for a driver’s license and work legally. House to give us a vote. one from another as a shepherd sepa- However, because her renewal applica- What are you afraid of? Give us a rates the sheep from the goats. He will tion was caught up in postal delays, vote. Let the House work its will. Sen- put the sheep on His right and the Itzel has not yet received her renewal, ator MCCONNELL, MITCH MCCONNELL, is goats on His left. Then the King will and her current DACA expired on Janu- enabling the Senate to work its will.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:53 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.016 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H915 Why should the House of Representa- our meeting at 8, it was exactly 40 immigrated to the United States when tives be constrained, especially on such hours until midnight tomorrow. I was 3 years old with my parents be- a values-based issue as who we are as a Forty is a number fraught with cause I needed medical treatment for nation and recognizing our biblical re- meaning in our religious lives. Forty my cerebral palsy. I went through six sponsibility to each other? years, in the Old Testament, 40 years of surgeries and 12 years of physical ther- Nicole Robles from Houston, Texas, Moses and the Jews and Aaron in the apy and walked for the first time when she was born in Mexico. Her family im- desert; 40 days that Christ was in the I was 15 years old. migrated to the United States when desert himself; 40 days is the length of ‘‘Growing up, I did well in school, but she was 6 months old, and she faces de- time of Lent; and, therefore, 40 hours is I felt stuck because I didn’t know how portation. In less than 100 days, her a Catholic devotion that many of us to go to college. With the help of my DACA will expire. I am anxious—Well, grew up with. counselor, I was able to apply for pri- this is now much less than 100 days. We have that same 40 hours, from 8 vate scholarships and attend a commu- She says: ‘‘I’m anxious because I am this morning until tomorrow night at nity college in Salem. I’m now at West- graduating high school in a few months midnight, to be prayerful—to be pray- ern Oregon University, where I was in- and I want to start college in August of erful—to show our purpose, and to spired to start my own group for un- next year. How will I do that without show why we are asking the Speaker documented young people like me. I’m my DACA?’’ for this vote. now getting my master’s there, and I’m She says: ‘‘There are so many bar- I have great admiration for the work part of the college Student Services riers to higher education when you’re that is done in a bipartisan way, on the Administration Program, with the undocumented. With a Dream Act, un- budget, the bill; of course, it is not ev- dream of one day making higher edu- documented students will have a erything we want, but there are many cation accessible to low-income and sense’’—the Dream Act gives them a good things in it, and I just can’t ex- undocumented students. documented sense—‘‘of security and plain to the DREAMers or to my col- ‘‘Without DACA, I no longer have ac- opportunity’’—to go to school—‘‘to get leagues why we should be second-class cess to health insurance through an a job, to care for their families, to con- Members of Congress in this House employer. I suffer from depression and tinue their studies in college or univer- without a commitment from the suicidal thoughts. This is why I have visited my Members of Congress to sity.’’ Speaker that MITCH MCCONNELL gave ‘‘I want that security and oppor- to the Senators, that there would be a urge them to pass the Dream Act, be- tunity. We deserve that.’’ She deserves vote on the floor to let Congress work cause my life and my health is on the that. its will. line.’’ ‘‘And we need Congress by the end of Patricia Ulloa was born in El Sal- b 1030 the year so that we, more people, don’t vador. Patricia said: ‘‘I have a mixed reach their expiration dates.’’ Are you afraid that the DREAMer status family—my parents have TPS, I Now, let me say that we have talked bill will pass, the work of Mr. HURD have one U.S. citizen brother, and my mostly about education, people work- and Mr. AGUILAR working with other two sisters and I have DACA. We need ing in education and social activities Members to shape a bill that would rec- the Dream Act now because one of my to help other people do their best. But ognize concerns that the President has sister’s DACA expires on March 6, 2018, many of our DREAMers have served in and others have to put a bipartisan bill and pretty soon the rest of my sisters our military with great courage and there that should attract the support and I could lose our protections too. great patriotism to the only country of the President? Our parents are already losing their that they know. Instead, we are hearing words that TPS protections because Trump termi- Again, using my leader’s minute, I are hard to process from the White nated the program. ‘‘I want the government to recognize want to make sure that the RECORD is House but, nonetheless, recognizing us as part of society and know that clear about what this debate is about. that we have to go down this path to- this is our home and we contribute to It is about honoring our own commit- gether. We all believe that, as the Bible our communities even without papers. ment to the Statue of Liberty, to the tells us, there is a spark of divinity in every person and that we must respect My family wants to be able to stay to- Founding Fathers, in terms of making gether and feel safe to drive, work, and this a land where one generation would that spark of divinity. Tomorrow will be the prayer break- travel.’’ take responsibility to make the future Here she says—I want to repeat fast, and that is a solemn occasion in better for the next. this—‘‘we contribute to our commu- Washington, D.C., and we are always And that brings to mind another per- nities even without papers.’’ son from Albuquerque, New Mexico, thinking in terms of Christ. When As an Italian American who grew up Yuridia Loera. She said: Christ became man, his assuming hu- at a time when I did not feel any preju- ‘‘Growing up, I was reminded of my manity brought his divinity to us so dice or bias—or if I did, I thought it immigration status every day by my that we participate in his divinity, was the other person’s problem. We mother. Twenty years later, I realized every one of us. Italian Americans always think there she did this to prepare our family for We have to remember that not only are only two kinds of people: those who the imminent day that our family does it exist in every person that we are Italian American and those who would face a deportation. And that day encounter, but it exists in us. It exists want to be. could be today because my DACA has in the President of the United States But in my father’s generation and expired. and his staff and all of the people who my grandfather’s generation and my ‘‘DACA is what allowed me to pass elected him. That is a beautiful thing great-grandmother’s generation, it was through immigration checkpoints safe- about it all. a different story, and there was a term. ly. I am also a survivor of sexual as- But that spark of divinity in each of It was called ‘‘wop,’’ and people used sault—with DACA, I was able to ap- us has to relate to other people and that as a derogatory term to Italian proach the police to report the person treat them with respect. How would we Americans. who assaulted me. Trump’s cruel deci- judge other countries if they said: ‘‘We Do you know what wop means, Mr. sion to terminate DACA has put border have several hundred thousand people Speaker? Wop means without papers. residents and survivors of assault in who came here as children, and now we Without papers. That is what these jeopardy. This is not how a country are sending them back where they people were called, without papers. And should treat immigrant youth and our came from?’’ We would make a judg- that is all that these kids are, without families.’’ ment about those countries that that papers. In every other way, strong par- I just want you to know why we are was outside the circle of civilized ticipants in our society, in our commu- making this plea. This is a human plea human behavior. And yet—and yet—we nity, and in our country. to the Speaker, a prayerful human plea have something to do about that right And so again, just give us a chance to to the Speaker. now. have a vote, Mr. Speaker. Another day It is almost 40 hours. This morning, I want to talk to you about Juan Car- will come when we can talk about com- when I first met with my colleagues in los Navarro from Oregon. He said: ‘‘I prehensive immigration reform. We

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:20 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.017 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H916 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 can talk about this, that, and the other esting: But you did not go far enough. try understands that you can’t deport thing, but right now, the Hurd-Aguilar So he instituted, by executive order, 750,000 individuals. These are individ- bill, whatever is being put together in Family Fairness. And then Family uals who give back to their commu- the Senate, recognizes our responsi- Fairness was continued under Presi- nity, who are involved in their church- bility to protect our borders, recog- dent George Herbert Walker Bush, two es, who have Ph.D.’s, who have been nizes the value of immigration to our great Presidents for immigration in creating jobs and who just want to country: hopes, dreams, aspirations, our country. make this country a better place. making America more American every What they did with their executive ‘‘When President Obama announced newcomer who comes. I truly believe orders, which stood the test of court DACA, to me, it was a life-changing ex- that, the constant reinvigoration of cases, protected a higher percentage of perience. I felt that I finally was given America. people than what President Obama a decent chance to be somebody in this Saba Nefes from Texas was born in did—two Republican Presidents, two country, to contribute to my State, to Mexico, and Saba writes: ‘‘We still great champions on immigration. Even contribute to my community, to get a don’t know a lot about cancer. We still after Congress acted, they said: You job, and just give back and be some- don’t know about genetic diseases. My didn’t go far enough. body in the greatest country on research at Texas Tech goes right into President Obama had to act because Earth.’’ the heart of that. It uses pure mathe- Congress would not act. That is the patriotism of our matics to look at why all these genetic Then we come forward with Presi- DREAMers. diseases exist and how they exist so dent Clinton following in that tradi- ‘‘So when DACA was introduced, it someday we can come up with cures for tion. President George W. Bush, great opened the doors to many things, even them. We’re far from that point, but President on immigration, he couldn’t doors I didn’t think were imaginable to this is the challenge I work on. convince his own party to pass com- open. ‘‘In addition to conducting research prehensive immigration reform. But ‘‘My name is Jaime Rangel. I was at Texas Tech, I’ve taught under- his statements, his values-based policy born in Mexico, but I came to this graduate students as a teaching assist- on immigrants is something, to this country when I was only 3 months ant. This past semester, I got to teach day—and his current statements are so old.’’ anatomy, and one of my students was beautiful and inspirational about treat- As the President said, he loves the blind and had a service dog. It was a ing people with dignity and valuing DREAMers. He loves the DREAMers. blessing, a great experience to teach their worth as we talk about immigra- He loves to call it DACA. Subscribe to tion. her anatomy, something that she got that. He loves the DREAMers. And And then, of course, President to touch and feel to learn. It taught me these people came to this country not Obama, doing what he did in terms of of their own volition, through no fault a lot of patience. It taught me what executive orders, protecting people in of their own. I, myself, thank their par- it’s like to work alongside my Amer- the tradition of Ronald Reagan and ents for bringing them here because ican students and peers. I’m just as George Herbert Walker Bush, with the they are a blessing to America, but, much a part of their lives as they are common values of George W. Bush and from their standpoint, through no fault of mine. President Clinton. ‘‘If DACA is repealed, I would be out So now we have the first Republican of their own. of a job immediately, and I won’t be President in modern times—the first Why can’t we be fair and give them a able to teach my students. I won’t be President, really—who is anti-immi- break? able to continue conducting the re- grant, and that is just such a change Javier Noris in New York City came search that I am conducting right now. from his own party, and it makes it from Mexico: ‘‘I invest in the next gen- This research could help scientists un- hard to see where we can have shared eration of biomedical tech solutions. derstand diseases like cancer and lead values. ‘‘When I was working at a conven- down a path toward a cure. Without Certainly one piece of that debate ience store, I always had big aspira- DACA, I can’t continue this critical which would require a fuller stipula- tions, even though I wasn’t sure how work.’’ tion of fact, hearings, et cetera, to see they would come to fruition. But the Now, I want to just say this. I think what the best path forward is is impor- moment DACA was passed, it really there is a lack of understanding, and tant for us to do. But for now, because put everything in perspective, and I we should have made it clear on the of the action that the President took, really made a conscious effort to focus other side of the aisle and with the it necessitates us taking action here, on my career. So I ended up pursuing a White House about what the Presi- as the President anticipated by putting career as a software engineer. dent’s action in September did. a March 5 deadline on it. We would like ‘‘I went to school at Cal State Uni- The President, maybe in good spirit, to do it sooner. versity, Northridge. I studied econom- thought that by giving us a March 5 This is a vehicle leaving the station. ics and biotechnology. After working deadline, he was giving a 6-month re- And if the Republicans need our sup- as a software engineer in Silicon Val- prieve to DREAMers; but what, in fact, port for this legislation, which has ley, I ended up moving to Brooklyn, he was doing was making matters many good features—and I commend New York. I now work in venture cap- worse for them. It was most unfortu- the negotiators on it and was a part of ital, running a small venture fund that nate. Most unfortunate because, again, that—unless we can get the same com- invests in early-stage life science and while they may have maintained the mitment that MITCH MCCONNELL gave frontier technology startups. status of DREAMer, they did not have the bipartisan group of legislators who ‘‘As a CEO of an investment fund, the protections of the DACA executive asked for it in the Senate, we would DACA being repealed does not only af- order that President Obama put forth. like that same response to our bipar- fect me. A DACA repeal could affect Perhaps it would have been better if tisan group. the startups with which I work and my President Trump had said: ‘‘I am giv- I want to talk about Jaime Rangel: ability to invest in them and their abil- ing Congress 6 months to pass a bill, ‘‘To me, Georgia is my home. I am ity to continue to grow and employ but I am not changing the status quo proud to be from the South, and I love hundreds of workers across the coun- that protects the DREAMers.’’ to give back to my community. try. Just on that point, President Obama, ‘‘I tell everybody I’m a Latino that ‘‘My name is Javier. I’m a DACA re- when he protected the DREAMers and grew up eating tortillas and grits at cipient and I’m from Mexico City. I their parents, what he did was signifi- the same time, and north Georgia is came to the United States when I was cant, but it was not as significant as home. And for somebody to say, ‘Hey, 5 years old.’’ what President Reagan did in the 1980s. you can’t get some instate tuition’ in a He did not come alone. He did not. He President Obama acted because Con- place that I consider my State was was brought here by his parents. gress would not act. He took action. really—it was really heartbreaking. I So many of our DREAMers here are President Reagan acted after Con- felt out of place. called DREAMers because they have gress did act, the Immigration Act of ‘‘Right now, I feel optimistic because big dreams. And they are entre- 1986. President Reagan said, inter- I believe the greater part of the coun- preneurs; they are teachers; they are

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:20 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.019 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H917 researchers in science; they are in our Andrea Seabra writes: ‘‘My dad was a Jose Manuel Santoyo, from Texas, military. They are making such a fabu- fighter pilot in the Peruvian Air Force, said: ‘‘My education was so that I could lous contribution to the future of our so I grew up with a lot of military in- contribute to society. country. fluence. When I was in high school, I ‘‘My last year at Southern Methodist It is not just about them. This DACA joined New Jersey ROTC, which was University, I began working on an en- repeal that we are making is about us: the junior ROTC, and I was there for gaged learning fellowship. Because of Who are we as a country? How do we 31⁄2 years. that, I was selected to be the com- honor the vows of our founders, the ‘‘It gave me that taste of maybe what mencement speaker for my graduation Statue of Liberty and her appeal to the my dad might have lived when he was and represent almost 600 other stu- world that has made America such a in the military. I lost him when I was dents who would be graduating that beacon of hope? only 6 years old, so I never really got day. In my speech, I thanked the fac- b 1045 to know that part of him. I always ulty and staff at my university. I had thought in the back of my head, when teachers who I’ve looked up to my The list goes on and on about many, I graduate, I want to join the military. whole life, who provided amazing edu- many DACA recipients, and I intend to When I was in my junior year, I real- cational opportunities regardless of the read them all. ized that I couldn’t enroll in the mili- papers I had or didn’t have. But in addition to that, I want to go tary because I was undocumented. ‘‘I want to be able to work and I want back to the Bible because I could have ‘‘I was sitting with a recruiter at my to work in public service. In order to brought the Bible here and just read school, an Air Force recruiter, and he do that, I would need to have DACA. I the Bible and said: If we are people of asked me about it. He’s like, ‘What’s would need to have work authorization faith, in God we trust, as we contend to your social?’ So when I told him, ‘Well, in this country. I feel like that’s what be, we must act upon our faith, and act I don’t have one—’ ’’ meaning Social my education was for. My education upon our values. Security number—‘‘he is like, ‘What wasn’t for me. My education was so I People always ask me: Where is about your passport?’ I’m like, ‘Well, I could contribute to society. My edu- hope? Where should we find hope? have a Peruvian passport.’ And he’s cation was so that I could give back to Hope is sitting there where it always like, ‘No, you have to either be a U.S. the community that has given me so has been, right between faith and char- resident or a U.S. citizen to be able to much, to the country that has given ity. People have hope because they be- join.’ me so much. lieve. They believe in God. They have ‘‘That’s the first time I ever experi- ‘‘This year I hope that our Congress faith in our country and themselves enced that big wall of being undocu- and our President work to fund a per- and their families; and they have faith mented, like a big stop sign saying, no, manent solution to provide us DACA in the goodness, the charity of others you can’t pursue this passion of yours. recipients a pathway to citizenship, to that people, when given the chance, ‘‘I didn’t live a normal life until I got give us an opportunity to use our edu- will do the right thing, and then, hope- DACA. Thanks to DACA, I was able to cation, to use everything that we’ve fully, that will be returned to them pursue my career after graduating cum learned in order to give back, in order when they need hope and can have laude from Saint Leo University, in to contribute, in order to provide for faith in the goodness of others. marketing. With DACA, I was able to ourselves and our families and our I want to tell you about Maria build my professional network, help communities.’’ Praeli. She is from Connecticut. She people, influence people, and do all What Manuel said is that he looked said: ‘‘I didn’t let anything keep me these things for myself and my family up to his teachers. He learned from from advancing academically. Unfortu- and my community. If that’s going to others in our country. That also dem- nately, when high school ended, I be taken away, everything that I’ve ac- onstrates the beautiful commitment of couldn’t attend the university of my complished, that I’ve worked on, that the American people to teach, to shed dreams. I was getting all these accept- I’ve helped people with will just fall light to younger people, newcomers to ance letters, but I couldn’t go to any of apart. It will shake the foundation of our country, to make a valuable con- these schools because I didn’t have a who I am today as a person, as a pro- tribution. Social Security number’’—this is my fessional, even as a friend, as a daugh- So in saluting, as I say, the DREAM- point; you can’t get a Social Security ter, everything. ers, we are saluting the opportunity number—‘‘and, therefore, I wasn’t eli- ‘‘My name is Andrea. I was born in they were given by the American peo- gible for financial aid. I couldn’t pur- Lima, Peru. I was brought here by my ple to make their contribution. Hope- sue the dreams that I had been hoping mom when I was 11 years old.’’ fully, Congress will live up to the val- to. But I did not let my undocumented She had lost her dad when she was 6. ues of the American people who over- status hold me back from continuing But this idea of military service, many, whelmingly support the DREAMers, to advance academically. when they got the DACA status protec- and see this as a separate issue not just ‘‘I enrolled at Gateway Community tion, have served honorably in the about the DREAMers, but about who College, where I worked very hard as a military. We are very proud of them, as we are as a country. student government association presi- we are proud of all of our men and Cesar Vargas was born in Mexico. He dent and graduated with 3.8 GPA to women in the military. holds a law degree and wants to be- then be able to attend Quinnipiac Uni- And I emphasize the story of hard came a military lawyer. Aside from ad- versity. I graduated magna cum laude work that these DREAMers have be- vocating for legislation to allow and earned my bachelor’s degree in cause they are very consistent with DREAMers to serve in the military, he May of 2016. American workers. American people has been advocating for immigration ‘‘It’s surreal to wake up every day are so resourceful. They are so wonder- reform through a political group he and be reminded that even though I ful. They so care about their families launched last year called Dream Action have been living in America for the and their communities. So this is not Coalition. The group is known for chal- past 18 years, in a few months, all my to say that DACA recipients are dif- lenging lawmakers on their stance on honors and education might end up not ferent. It is to say they are just like us. immigration and highlighting the po- mattering anymore because I won’t be We are very proud of the American litical power of voters. In his case, able to contribute to the country people, the productivity of our work- Latino voters. which I have called home for so long. force, the faith of our families, the Kelly—just Kelly—is from Dover, ‘‘My name is Maria. I was born in civic mindedness and the generosity of New Jersey. Kelly is a student working Ica, Peru, and moved to the United spirit, and, really, of resources of the toward becoming a medical assistant. States when I was 5 years old.’’ American people. She will be done with courses in Janu- There is documentation after docu- My telling these stories is not to sep- ary. However, without a DACA work mentation of how young these children arate the DACA recipients from them, permit, she won’t be able to complete were when they came to the United but to show how similar they are and an internship required to complete her States all because their parents wanted how assimilated they are into our com- training and get certified. Her driver’s to make the future better for them. munity. It is mutually beneficial. license also expires in February.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:20 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.021 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H918 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 Understand this: you can’t have a So- Saul is from San Francisco and is a State. Mayron, originally from Hon- cial Security card, a passport, a driv- constituent of JACKIE SPEIER. Saul as- duras, has lived in the U.S. since he er’s license. You cannot function as a pires to be a teacher, Mr. Speaker. was 11 years old and knows no other person in our society without having DACA has allowed him to work in the country as home. He has overcome lots your status protected by the Dream field he is passionate about: education. of obstacles to be who he is today, a Act. So when people tell you it is all He was able to get a driver’s license. successful entrepreneur who owns protected, it isn’t. Listen to the sto- Saul submitted a DACA renewal appli- three businesses. He submitted his ries. cation September 30, well in time, via DACA renewal application before the So I was talking about Kelly. Kelly is USPS express delivery. He received no- deadline. It arrived on October 2, 2017. a student working to becoming a med- tification of an error, which he fixed He accidentally submitted the proc- ical assistant. She will be done in Jan- and resubmitted. However, his applica- essing fee for $465 instead of $495. That uary. However, without DACA, she tion was rejected as untimely. is what it takes. $495 is a lot of money. won’t be able to complete her training Agustin is from Brooklyn. Agustin’s His entire case was sent back for that or get her driver’s license, as I men- DACA will expire in January—al- reason. tioned. Kelly—just Kelly—has lived in ready—within days of his 21st birthday. With his rejection, he received a New Jersey since she was 5 years old. DACA allowed Agustin to go to college green document stating: You are in- She says DACA has ‘‘given me the to study criminal justice. He works and vited to resubmit your application chance to drive, have a work permit, goes to school. When his DACA ex- package after you have corrected the buy a car, get car insurance—things pires—which it has—he won’t have the reasons for rejection. Place this letter that obviously benefit the country as means to pay his bills and the cost of on top of your application package. well. It’s helped me to not be stuck, school. Mayron affixed the processing fee and not to have to depend on others. . . .’’ What are we doing? resubmitted his application with the Kelly’s DACA renewal application It is like without papers, WOP. And green document on top of his applica- was rejected because she forgot to fill now people who are striving to have tion package. On October 31, he re- in a date of expiration. When she re- their papers are outlawed on a techni- ceived the entire package in the mail ceived notice of the error, she fixed it cality. Really? Aren’t we supposed to with a rejection notice dated October and sent the application back imme- be enabling people to make their con- 24 that stated that USCIS is no longer diately, but, by then, the arbitrary Oc- tribution instead of hurting them with accepting DACA applications. tober deadline had passed. the process? Mayron has been a DACA applicant This is another reason why we need It is, again, important to note, and for the last 3 years and is heartbroken to clear this up. for our viewers to note that what peo- by the DHS’ actions in rejecting the re- Crystal—just Crystal—is a single, ple are asking for is nothing special. It newal of his DACA. working mom of 5 U.S. citizen children. is asking them to honor what was GREGORY MEEKS’ constituent, Brit- She was born in the Bahamas and ar- there. When DACA recipients were told tany, writes that she was born in Trini- rived in the U.S. at 6 years old. Crystal to sign up, they submitted considerable dad and Tobago and arrived in the U.S. had her fifth child only 3 weeks ago, information about their lives. They ef- at 3 years old and grew up in New and while recovering, she had been on fectively outed their parents with the York. She has no close family in Trini- unpaid leave from a retail job, where commitment that there would be pro- dad and Tobago, and all of her imme- she has worked for nearly 6 years. Now tection for them. diate and most of her extended family that her work authorization has ex- We have heard many good bipartisan who are citizens and residents live near pired, she will not be able to return to proposals to protect the DREAMers, to her in New York. work, and her ability to provide for her give consideration to parents so that Brittany is a full-time caretaker for kids will be impeded. they would not be deported because a family in Brooklyn with two 14- What? they brought a child into the country. month-old sons, one of whom has spe- Carlos from the Bronx. Carlos lives in Some of these parents have citizen cial needs and requires physical ther- the Bronx and is the only undocu- children now who are also making a apy. Although the child’s special needs mented member of his family. The contribution to our society. were not known when she was hired, whole family pulls together to care for So it is because people understand Brittany has risen to the occasion with Carlos’ younger sister who has severe that that September 5 announcement grace, calm, and competence according cerebral palsy and cannot walk. Carlos’ by the President was very disruptive. to the family. We are devastated by the employer, a fabrication company, des- Let’s hope that it was not intentional. thought she may not be able to con- perately wants to keep Carlos as an I don’t think that it was. I have no rea- tinue to work in this country, and, no, employee. His DACA and work author- son to think that it was. But it did we won’t find another caregiver who is ization expired February 18, 2017. It ex- cause problems that perhaps were un- as reliable, nurturing, and unshakeable pired already. foreseen. The system did not even as Brittany. So the list goes on and on. allow for a correction in a form in a Brittany submitted her renewal ap- Carlos sent his DACA renewal appli- timely fashion because of dependence plication September 21, but it was sent cation on September 18, 2017, 2 weeks on when it was received to be judged a back to her on October 5 because she after the President’s announcement. protection for those students. forgot to sign her name in one place. But it was not received until December So, in fact, over 110 DREAMers a day She sent it back immediately but was 11—he sent it on September 18. It was lose their protection. It is over—ap- rejected as untimely. received on October 11. In the rejection proaching 20,000 already who are losing Hugo in Houston, Texas. Hugo is a 34- letter, he was notified that he failed to their protections. And it will be more year-old father who lives in Houston, fill in his DACA expiration date on one by the time of March 5, which is the Texas. He came to the United States of the forms. The relevant information deadline. And if we are going to reach from Mexico when he was 6 years old was included in the cover letter and in a March 5 deadline, or any deadline, we and has lived in Houston ever since. He other parts of the packet. Carlos ar- have to get on a timetable to do so. completed K–12 in Houston and now rived in the U.S. when he was 2 years One timetable we have is the oppor- works at a photo framing shop near old. New York is the only place he can tunity today to have a commitment downtown. After Trump was elected, call home. The expiration date was in from the Speaker not to be afraid of Hugo worried about reapplying, so he the package, but in one of the forms it DREAMers. Thank God for them. They waited. Hugo found out from one text was not added. So he lost his protec- contribute. We are a nation of DREAM- message from a friend on September 6 tions. ers. That is why they fit so com- that he needed to reapply before Octo- I have to mention Kelly, who is a fortably in our society and contribute ber 5 or risk losing his DACA. He de- constituent of RODNEY FRELINGHUYSEN. to it so beautifully. cided to quickly put together his appli- Crystal, who was here from the Baha- cation as his DACA was set to expire mas, is a constituent of TED DEUTCH. b 1100 September 9, 2017. Carlos is from the Bronx and is a con- I will tell you about Mayron, RICK Hurricane Harvey had just hit the stituent of JOE CROWLEY. LARSEN’s constituent from Washington Houston area. While Hugo’s home was

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:20 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.023 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H919 not destroyed, the entire city of Hous- pursuit of a degree, but instead he ‘‘DACA’s removal would rip that ton was shut down, including many chose to make a difference. away from us. Ending DACA will hurt businesses. Hugo’s work was one of I know there are other young people more than 800,000 people, people not them. He didn’t have the time or who are just like me, said Cesar. They just with dreams and aspirations, but money to pay an attorney. He had to need someone to fight for them and try people that want to be seen, under- borrow half the money for the applica- to make a way. That is when he found- stood, and welcomed. They are your tion fee because he couldn’t get $495 to- ed FIEL, an immigrants’ rights organi- friends and your neighbors, your gether in such a short period of time. zation based in Houston. schoolteachers. . . .’’ Hugo was unable to get his DACA re- Congresswoman BARBARA LEE writes Now, this is so important: ‘‘They are newal application mailed until October about her constituent, Emily. Emily is your friends and your neighbors, your 4, which is still before the deadline. a resident of Alameda, California. She schoolteachers and your doctors, and USCIS received Hugo’s application on came to the U.S. when she was 9 years they need you to come to their side and October 6. On November 1, Hugo re- old with her family from South Korea help. Call Congress, have an open con- ceived a letter from USCIS denying his in the year 2000. She currently works in versation, relay facts and fight for my renewal. Now, you know if they got his community health work in a federally family and the hundreds of thousands application on October 6, they knew it qualified health center in Oakland, like us.’’ was mailed before October 5, or in time California, serving the underserved API This goes on and on. It just seems on October 5, but they turned him community. Emily graduated from UC like it is such an easy solution. There down. Berkeley in 2014 and has been working are plenty of challenges that we have The point I want to make here is as a community health worker ever that are complex, comprehensive im- these are technicalities that people since. She is also taking a class after migration reform, issues that relate to have been turned down on. Could we all work to prepare to apply to graduate how we prepare our country for jobs for live up to the standard that has been school. the 21st century, how we prepare our set to sign in every place with the date Emily says DACA has changed her workers and our education system and and the this and the that even though life and the lives of her family mem- the rest. But in all of that, we have to the information is contained in the bers. She was able to finally contribute be strong as a country. To be strong as package, even though hurricanes inter- to her family’s living expenses upon a country, we have to be true to our vened in the mail service or the oppor- graduation and will continue to pursue values. To be true to our values is to tunity to put the package together, no her dreams. respect the aspirations of people who mitigation, no consideration for that? Emily is grateful for the protection are our future. Our young people are That is really unfortunate because the she received under DACA. But she is our future, and these DREAMers are American people are the losers in all of also deeply concerned about her moth- part of that. They have enriched our that. er and friends who don’t have the same community, and they have been en- Fernanda writes that she arrived in opportunity to come out of the shad- riched by our community, by the good- the U.S. at age 2 wearing a pink parka ows. ness of the American people, and by and matching pants, clutching on to Emily said, ‘‘When my rights as a the greatness of our country. her mom. She carried a single bag and ‘deserving American’ are justified by So our plea to the Speaker is not one abandoned her family in search of a the idea that it was ‘no fault of my just for the DREAMers. Our plea to the better life beside her father in the U.S. own,’ it automatically criminalizes my Speaker is for us, for ourselves, again, Her dad was already in Alabama, and mother, whose love, sacrifice, and re- to honor the vows of our Founders, our they were wanting to be by his side. silience made it possible for me and my patriarch, George Washington, and oth- In the year before his decision to siblings to be where we are today. I am ers who followed him to make our leave Mexico, he had been assaulted forever thankful for her courage and country great, but also to make it a five times and already had his wedding the sacrifice she made to give us a bet- beacon of hope to the rest of the world. band stolen twice. Since arriving to the ter life.’’ Claudia came to the United States States, they have been able to start Emily’s story is a reminder that we when she was 5. She said: ‘‘ . . . my four businesses and create jobs. They must protect DREAMers, but we must family brought me to a country I purchased two cars and put Fernanda never give up the fight for comprehen- would call home. I had to learn a new through college. They also have helped sive immigration reform. It is past language, new culture, a new way of their U.S.-born son reach his goals of time for Congress to pass the clean life. I was brought here by hard- being a professional soccer player and Dream Act. working, loving parents who only is on the Olympic Development Pro- Jose Castillo wrote: wanted what was best for my future, gram team for the southeast region. ‘‘My name is Jose Castillo, and I am running away from poverty and leaving SHEILA JACKSON LEE is with us in the 22 years old. When I was 4 years old’’— family behind in the hope of a better Chamber. Sheila’s story is that one of can you imagine how precious—‘‘my life. these young people living with uncer- parents took my little sister and me ‘‘DACA allowed me to have a chance tainty is Cesar Espinoza, a DREAMer and packed up everything they owned. at a better tomorrow. I am now a med- from Houston who came to America We got on a plane and headed to the ical assistant and a third-year student from Mexico at the age of 6. Cesar United States to escape a country in at the University of Utah. Taking away adapted quickly to his Texas home and its early stages of turmoil. My parents DACA would remove the privileges became a standout student excelling in gave up everything they had to provide that I hold dearly. I am not an ‘illegal programs for the gifted and talented us with a sliver of a chance, one they alien,’ nor am I a criminal or a rapist. throughout his primary and secondary knew we wouldn’t have in Venezuela. I am a human; I am 1 of the 800,000 education. ‘‘They made it a point to raise us DREAMers who thrive for a better fu- Faced daily with the constant threat well while shielding us from racism and ture. America is my home. I didn’t of deportation, Cesar and his family their fears of deportation. choose to be undocumented, but I do were forced to have an emergency plan ‘‘Eventually, we came to understand decide to keep fighting for what is in place in the event one of his family just how many doors were closed to us. right and keep moving forward, un- members were detained by the immi- Disheartened and frightened for our fu- documented and unafraid. I am a gration services. Espinoza graduated ture, we prayed for something, any- DREAMer, and I am here to stay.’’ from DeBakey High School near the thing. DACA was that something. Did I tell you about Juan Escalante? top of his class and was accepted at DACA has given me hope and a real ‘‘With much foresight to the oncoming some of America’s most prestigious chance, but, more importantly, it has political evidence, my parents fled universities, including Yale. But his given me a voice. I can proudly tell my Venezuela in 2000, with my two broth- undocumented status prevented him story to anyone who is willing to lis- ers and me in tow, for the United from obtaining financial assistance, ten, a story about a family who is de- States. In 2006, we learned that an im- nearly shattering his college ambi- termined and persistent in their pur- migration attorney had mishandled our tions. He could have given up on his suit of an American life. immigration case, which meant that,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:53 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.025 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H920 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 after 6 years of legal fees and paying from the immigration community, to sneak me into work. I picked up the taxes, we were no longer on the path which are all of us unless we happen to trash and refilled the trash can with towards U.S. citizenship. be very blessed to be born a Native bags at every room. Today, I am in one ‘‘By the time President Obama an- American in our country. How beau- of those conference rooms nounced the Deferred Action for Child- tiful some of the Native American fam- whiteboarding with engineers and prod- hood Arrivals, DACA, program in 2012, ilies in our country have been to our uct managers to solve the toughest I had graduated from Florida State newcomers to our country. problems in Big Data.’’ University with a political science de- Our country should all be that wel- Imagine being sneaked in in a trash gree. I fought and lost two legislative coming, and I think our country is. barrel, helping to clean those offices, fights in support of the Dream Act, That is why the numbers are in the and now being the leader in the room, helped enact a law in Florida that eighties and nineties, in terms of sup- whiteboarding with engineers and prod- would provide in-state tuition for un- port for DREAMers, and even in the uct managers, solving the toughest documented students across the State, seventies among Republicans for a path problems in Big Data. and helped organize thousands of to citizenship. ‘‘Anyone who thinks East Palo Alto DREAMers from all across the country. Carlos Emilio Diaz writes: ‘‘I am 19 is a precious community doesn’t live ‘‘Since 2013, DACA has protected my years old, and I was born in Guerrero, there anymore. During the worst days brothers and me from deportation. Mexico. I moved to Houston when I was of gang violence, I had to become With DACA, I was able to return to a year old’’—a year old—‘‘and was street smart and know that, as an im- FSU for a master’s degree in public ad- raised there my entire life. I am cur- migrant and only child in a house of 17 ministration and get a job in immigra- rently a student at UT Austin. My big- people, I wasn’t in a position to fight tion advocacy, as the digital campaigns gest dream is to provide my parents back. My strategy was always to keep manager for America’s Voice. I am a with everything they need without a low profile and be on the lookout for Tallahassee resident.’’ them having to work. They have sac- trouble. Mayra came to the United States at rificed so much and continue to do so. ‘‘The community of EPA put me in age 6. She said: ‘‘I have now lived in I feel that’s the least I could do. DACA touch with amazing people through the United States for 21 years. Cur- gives me that opportunity, and without Eastside. Eastside is a private’’—when rently, I work full time as a special it, my dream has become uncertain.’’ I say ‘‘EPA,’’ in this case, it is East education paraprofessional. I am also a One of the things that I think many Palo Alto. college student. I’m working on my families in transition, that is to say, ‘‘The community of East Palo Alto third college degree.’’ the upward mobility of education in put me in touch with amazing people How many of us can make that our country and the length of time through Eastside. Eastside is a private claim? that families have been here, is the school in EPA that helps underrep- ‘‘In May of 2018, I will be graduating story of their respect for their parents, resented and first-generation students summa cum laude with a bachelor’s de- to see opportunities that they have, get into college. A couple sponsored me gree in elementary education and spe- that DREAMers in this case have, but from 6th through 12th grade. cial education. A challenge I have had just take any people in our country. ‘‘Every day, I met volunteers and to overcome is accepting situations That one generation has tremendous teachers from the surrounding towns that are out of my control and know- opportunity because of the sacrifice of and Stanford University. Through a ing that having strength and fortitude their parents and grandparents. reading program, I met Christina, or will lead me to prevail in the end. Chris, as I like to call her, who, for the ‘‘I first went to college to become a b 1115 past 15 years has been a mentor and a nurse. In 2011, my junior year of col- One of the attitudes that I have friend. She helped me become a better lege, I graduated with honors with an heard from people is, while they are en- reader and eventually edit a manu- associate’s degree in nursing. Unfortu- joying and are grateful for everything script for a book. The education and nately, I was unable to get licensed due that they have and the opportunity support that I received at Eastside al- to my immigration status. It was up- they have to give back to society, they lowed me to be successful and stay setting and embarrassing. I was embar- have a certain sadness that their par- safe. rassed because I would see former peers ents didn’t have that same opportunity ‘‘It sounds crazy, but I couldn’t get a working as actual nurses, and I wasn’t. for education, to reach their personal cell phone. If something happened to And not because I was incapable, but aspirations. Their aspiration was to me while my parents worked the night merely because I was never even given make the future better for their chil- shift as janitors, I couldn’t call 911. I the opportunity to take the NCLEX dren. They certainly were successful at didn’t have a credit history, which re- and get licensed. that. But, still, among some young quires a Social Security number. ‘‘In 2012, I finished my senior year in people, you hear: ‘‘I wish my parents That’s when I started becoming aware college and graduated cum laude with a could have had this opportunity.’’ of my status as an undocumented stu- bachelor’s degree in general studies. How many people have ever said: ‘‘If dent. A Stanford med school student, Over the years, the State I reside in only my mother would have had this Julie, helped me out. Although the has changed State legislation to allow opportunity’’? That is in every genera- phone was under her name, I paid her DACA recipients to receive driver’s li- tion, practically, because opportunities in cash for part of my bill every censes, professional licenses, and cer- for women have changed so much. month.’’ tifications.’’ But, in any case, I have a neighbor in So, again, you see, without it—no That is a beautiful thing, but we East Palo Alto in the heart of Silicon status, no credit, no Social Security want that for the whole country. There Valley, Rocio, who writes: number, no driver’s license—it is de- are just certain things, the contribu- ‘‘I grew up in East Palo Alto in the bilitating and doubly worrisome be- tions of DREAMers to our society, the heart of Silicon Valley before and after cause so many of these people are mak- work they do every day with the Amer- the dot-com bubble. Despite living in a ing such a valuable contribution to our ican people of which they consider tough neighborhood of violence’’—you society, learning from the American themselves to be a part, the benefits maybe don’t know that, but East Palo people, and giving back. they have received from working and Alto is, in the heart of all this wealth, Maneri: ‘‘I’m 18 years old and from knowing people in our country, them- success, and entrepreneurship, a place Los Angeles. I just graduated high selves benefiting from the greatness of that needs more of our attention. school and will be attending UCLA to the American people, the reciprocity ‘‘Despite living in a tough neighbor- study political science in the fall. they have given back and honoring the hood of violence, I watched ‘‘Star Trek Being an undocumented student has American Dream, working hard with a Voyager,’’ ‘‘Friends,’’ read Dr. Seuss, been tough. Coming to this country at work ethic, an ethic of faith, family, and memorized musicals from ‘‘Funny 6 years old completely changed my life. and community, and a work ethic, usu- Girl’’ to ‘‘The Wizard of Oz.’’ On the Learning English and doing well in ally typical of an immigration commu- weekends, I helped my dad clean office school was a battle since everyone in nity as many of us who are families buildings. He hid me in the trash cart my family only spoke Spanish and had

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:49 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.026 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H921 no more than an elementary school for me. But it is also hard for me be- else, but the advice that was inadvertently education. cause we really, again, are in a position coming out of my mouth meant nothing to ‘‘However, being a DREAMer has also to do something, and we feel helpless— myself. shaped who I am, what I stand for, and I could no longer follow my own advice. that is what the hard part is—helpless Governing laws did not allow undocumented has inspired me to dream big. After if our Speaker will not, Speaker of the immigrants to go to college right out of high graduation, I hope to go to law school whole House, give this dignity to this school. My too thin of a boy who ignorantly and become an immigration lawyer to House of Representatives to be able to thought he would go to college transformed help others in my situation and give take the vote on a subject of broad de- to that of a cashier tending lines in the local back to my community. I dream that bate in the country, but we can’t de- supermarket. In retrospect, those feelings one day your immigration status bate a bill on the floor of the House. were before DACA was announced. doesn’t define your path in life or hold The Senate has received that dignity, I still remember the many chills that went through my body when President Obama an- you back from reaching your goals but, has received that commitment from nounced the initiative. Then, still worried instead, encourages and embraces di- MITCH MCCONNELL, from Leader that it might be too good to be true, I stuck versity.’’ MCCONNELL on the Republican side, with it and applied, making a huge dif- Again, so many stories of so many but, nonetheless, the Senate side, re- ference in my life. I could continue my edu- DREAMers. I just want to see if we sponding to bipartisan support, bring- cation, work legally, and live peacefully in a have some more from our colleagues in ing a bill to the floor with, again, no world surrounded by fear. terms of the ones that they have sub- guarantee, the debate, we will see what Through DACA, I could achieve the by mitted. We have received all of these then impossible college education. DACA al- path that legislation takes. lowed me to come out of the shadows and from our colleagues. Some of them But why a gag rule in the House of show the true potential I have without fear. identified as being from them or not, Representatives? Why a gag rule? And DACA demonstrated to me that people cared, but all of them, again, proud, proud of that is why I am voicing some of the that people wanted to help and understand these young people who not only are concerns today, largely through the the situation. DREAMers, but inspire the rest of us to voices and the stories of our DREAM- I recently received TheDream.US scholar- dream. ers. We want to be sure that the public ship that bestowed upon me the gift of edu- Mr. Speaker, I thank you for your record of the Congress of the United cation, for which I will be ever grateful. I am courtesy. I am not finished yet. I thank currently an undergraduate student studying States forevermore will reflect the sto- biochemistry at Arizona State University. you for your courtesy in the interim ries of their great contribution to A great school, by the way. and just want to say I am taking this America in the hopes that those stories time because I think we have an oppor- will move the Speaker of the House to I arrived in the United States when I was tunity now that is almost matchless. 5. I grew up American. I grew up speaking give us a vote, to elevate this House of English. I grew up to call the United States We are at a moment when we can all Representatives to its rightful place in- home. This is my home. This is my country. come together to do something really stead of diminishing us by saying the I am here to stay. Luis Roberto Usera good for the country, take an action Senate may talk about these subjects Brisano. that has bipartisan support. that the American people care so much Sofia de la Varga, an EMT student: We have no right, as I said earlier, about, not so fast in the House of Rep- I was 5 years old when my mother told me any of us, to associate ourselves with resentatives. where we were going to on vacation. At the the aspirations of the DREAMers un- So that is why I am using my leader- time, I was excited for this vacation because less we are able to and willing and cou- ship minute to make sure that the our dog had passed away and was buried rageous enough to take action on their RECORD will show the magnificent con- right outside my bedroom window. I wasn’t behalf. So, while some of us have been, tributions of the DREAMers in our too happy about that when it came to get- more or less, receptive to receiving country, the courage it took for their ting a night’s rest. I went ahead and I gath- DREAMers, learning from them, being parents to bring them here. ered my teddy bear and book bag, which inspired by them, some have not been pretty much summed up all my belongings And again, Members are sending in as a child. as exposed to these DREAMers and their stories from Dallas, Texas, from When I was 15, I realized our vacation was their stories as others. I think, if you Arizona State. Let me read this one: more than a permanent move from a dan- had been—and I am not saying you re- Pitter-patter. Pitter-patter. Stretching out gerous country. My mother gave up her en- ject it; I am just saying maybe it is ge- my hand to greet her. She reiterated my tire family for us. She left her brothers and ography or whatever—you would be as name, Mr. Luis Roberto Usera, class salu- her mother to risk her life for us. insistent as many of us are that we live tatorian. Today, I feel worthless. Since I came to America, I have felt nothing but useless and up to who we are as a country, and this Isn’t that great? Making the salutary ad- dress. not belonging. I grew up here. I work, study, people’s House listens to the voices of Clear as the day, breaking wind upon my breathe, and want to live forever here. Yet the American people who overwhelm- face, silencing my voice as I spoke out in a never in my life have I been given a chance ingly support our DREAMers. crowd of thousands. This is our day, ladies to become a citizen, because I was not born Again, I don’t know when we would and gentlemen, the class of 2012. The last 18 here. have another opportunity that matches years of our lives, everything we have ac- For the longest, I have been sick and tired today for us to just get a simple com- complished, everything we have been of living in a place that I am not wanted. For mitment from the Speaker of the through has led us to today. so long, this place I call home refuses to call Reading these words aloud encouraged that me theirs. When people ask me where I am House that he will give us a vote. I had made a difference, that my work ethic from, I say ‘‘America.’’ America. My soul There is no guarantee. We will have the finally paid off. This is meant to be an and heart are from here. If I were to move debate. People will weigh in. They will honor. Here I was, 4.8 grade point average, 4.8 back, I know for a fact I would not like it. I make their voices heard. Congress, grade point average, all honors classes. Ran wouldn’t have a car, internet, friends, secu- again, will work its will. But do not di- student government and some of the most rity. And getting killed is a possibility every minish this House of Representatives, successful blood drives my school ever has day. However, if the choice were mine and no this people’s House, to a place where seen and no way to do anything with it. I one in my family existed, I would leave in a we don’t have the right to express our looked, watching people’s reaction, their heartbeat because at least I would belong. faces toward mine, waiting for me to con- I wanted to leave many times. My mom, views on a subject so important to our tinue. And so I did. the most wonderful soul on the planet, con- country that has such general support An echo was heard around the amphi- vinced me otherwise. She fled because, since in the public and, yet, the Speaker of theater rapidly dispersing my voice to every- the day I was born, they said they were try- the House is saying we don’t matter one in the back, to myself. I spoke into the ing to rob, kidnap, and even kill her. here, we, Members of the House, don’t enchanted crowd, amused at my priestlike When I first heard President Obama’s count in this consideration because voice. speech on DACA years ago, I saw the light at maybe we just don’t have the courage And here, 4 years later, we have to face the end of the tunnel. DACA granted me ev- that same feeling, the bittersweet combina- erything to live a normal life and, for once, to do what we need to do. tion of nostalgia and excitement that comes belong. It was temporary, but I felt real. I I believe we do. I believe many people when you turn off one road in your life and graduated high school at the top percent in on the Republican side of the aisle have onto another. The speech would have been my class. I was first in my family, and I was demonstrated even greater courage great if I had believed a word I was saying. blessed to start college and earned a scholar- than some of us on this side. It is easy The speech might have rung true to someone ship that paid for my first 2 years.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:49 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.028 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H922 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 This December I will be finishing up my DREAMers a fighting chance for our Rights, and then others that we take EMT school. In the future, I hope to com- future, our hopes, and our aspirations an oath to protect and defend. plete 2 more years of paramedic and attain to become more than just DREAMers. At the same time as they did that, an associate in emergency services. ‘‘Please, please, let it be known that I have a brother that drowned when I was they created the great seal of the younger. In my home country, you can for- all DREAMers appreciate the assist- United States of America. I referenced get that police and an ambulance will arrive ance this Nation has given us through it earlier. It is on the dollar bill. or even bother to come if you call. My only DACA. Futures have been opened for You see that triangle with the eye? hope is to save as many lives as I can or die DREAMers who were once on uncertain It used to scare me when I was little. risking my life for another person. roads, thanks to the help of DACA. I What is that? A pyramid with an eye? b 1130 hope this Nation does not give up on But under it, it says: ‘‘Novus Ordo us. I hope this Nation continues to be- Seclorum.’’ I know DACA can be taken away. I won’t lieve in its DREAMers. I hope this Na- Catholics know that ‘‘seclorum, be able to drive to my college or work to pay seclorum, seclorum’’ means ‘‘forever off my college tuition. My scholarship will tion continues to see why DACA is nec- be terminated, I will be deported and eventu- essary. After all, this Nation is all that and ever and ever.’’ But in this, it is ally left with nothing to live for. I pray for most DREAMers have. Our lives are ‘‘new order for the ages.’’ an opportunity to stop feeling like that. under the weight of this country’s They had so much confidence in what There isn’t room for me here. mercy. Although, as much as we work, they had established and what they You see, it is amazing the effect on as much as we learn, as much as we were doing that was so new and fresh public policy and people’s lives. That is pray, all we can truly do is hope and to the world. They became a beacon to why I want the RECORD to show, again, dream for a hopeful tomorrow, a the world. But in doing this new order that everyone, forevermore in the his- brighter road ahead, a chance to dream for the ages, they had confidence and tory of the United States of America, again. Nayelli Valdemar.’’ optimism that this would last forever will know that these DREAMers are Nayelli, in this statement, talks because it was predicated on the idea part of that history and that their sto- about praying. That is why I am so that every generation would take re- ries will be there to make judgments glad I mentioned at the beginning the sponsibility and make the future better about us as to how we have responded three Bs: the Bibles, the badges, and for the next. to their greatness. the business community. They are so I said it earlier: The American Nayelli Valdemar says: ‘‘I am an AP supportive of giving relief to the Dream. People flocked to our shores scholar. I am a distinguished high DREAMers. bringing their aspirations, hopes, de- school graduate. I am a cum laude stu- Let’s talk about the Bibles. I talked termination, and courage to make the dent. I am a leader. I am a recipient of about the Gospel of Matthew, the par- future better for their families. And in scholarships in merit and cir- able of the Good Samaritan, the dig- adopting them, their traits were like cumstance. I am also an illegal immi- nity and worth of every person’s spark American traits, characteristics of op- grant. of divinity, that God, Christ coming timism, hope, courage, and making the ‘‘Well, allow me to rephrase. I am an down, bringing his divinity to human- future better. And all these newcomers illegal immigrant until the Deferred ity enabled us, our humanity, to par- to our shores, they made America more Action for Childhood Arrivals, an exec- ticipate in his divinity, and that is American with their commitment to a utive action where President Obama that spark that we all have, every sin- better future for their families, and gave me the opportunity to live as a gle one of us. So we have to respect it that continues to this day. resident here in the United States. in others but be responsible for it in And these young people now are DACA has opened many doors for ourselves, and that is the challenge called DREAMers. Their parents had a DREAMers such as myself. Honestly, it that we have. dream for them to bring them to our has made the path to success miles ‘‘Hope,’’ sitting there between country, but they completely adapted more tangible. Inspiring me to be the ‘‘faith’’ and ‘‘charity,’’ the goodness of to our way of always being dreamers best I can, even when the odds plotted others—we all have hope that when we about a better future in our country. against me, DACA was, and is, there to have needs, we believe, we have faith They learned from the American peo- give a helping hand. Regarding my aca- that others will be there for us, and ple. They taught the American people. demic record, neither am I writing to that is what America is about. It is a beautiful relationship. boast about my accomplishment nor to America is great because America is And now we have an opportunity to ask for pity in the right situation, I am good. I say it over and over again. This show our greatness as a country, to here to thank anyone and everyone fabulous, greatest country in the his- honor the values of our Founders, the who made DACA not only possible, but tory of the world, think about it, our courage they had to find a path, a solu- DREAMers’ dreams come true. I’m Founders, how courageous they were. tion, a result, so that we can put this writing to give thanks for the faith the They decided to declare war on the aside and address other issues that re- creators of DACA gave me when the greatest naval power, then, in the late to immigration, which are a bigger compassion of the world seemed to world, the British Navy, the British picture, more complicated, take more turn a blind eye my way. With this let- military. They declared, in the Dec- time, require more public debate. ter, I only hope to help the new Presi- laration of Independence, their griev- Why can’t we just do this? dential administration understand why ances against the king, but they also This is discrete. Congresswoman DACA is a vital part of every DREAM- stated their aspirations about people MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM, the chair of er’s life. being created equal. the Hispanic Caucus, said this so beau- ‘‘As a poverty-stricken female immi- No country had been founded on that tifully when we testified before the grant, I have moved mountains to get principle before, and our inalienable Rules Committee on immigration, on to where I am today, but this never rights under God, just remarkable, be- the Dream Act. She said: Think of this would have been possible without the stowed on them by Our Creator. This is bill like CHIP. CHIP, the Children’s assistance of DACA. Playing an impor- a remarkable people. And then they Health Insurance Program, is about tant role in my life, DACA is a pin- fought the war, they won the war, they the children. It is not a bill that talks nacle to the rights I cherish every day. established our founding documents. about universal healthcare, the whole Because of DACA, I have been able to My daughter wrote a movie on it— healthcare system of our country. It is get a job to assist my family. It was well, she didn’t write because it was about the children. We have the immi- not easy working 30-plus-hour shifts, written by our Founders, but she pro- gration issue similar to being a big only to be welcomed by house chores duced a movie on words that made comprehensive issue, but then we have and schoolwork, especially since I America—our Declaration, our Con- this little piece that is for the children. graduated from a magnet school, the stitution, our Bill of Rights. And thank I think it was the perfect analogy. Science Academy of South Texas, a God they had the brilliance to make CHIP is healthcare for the children. It school notorious for its workload. . . . our Constitution amendable. And it doesn’t address the whole healthcare ‘‘My hopes lie in that the generosity being amendable, it became this in- system, changes that people may want of this Nation continues to allow all credible document with the Bill of to make or improve or change. It is

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:49 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.030 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H923 about the children. It is an easy path charity. Pope Francis, when he came, b 1145 for us to go down, recognizing that it is spoke so beautifully, as he always does, ‘‘DACA gave me wings, the wings I not a substitute for what we need to do about respecting immigrants. He is liv- hoped for all my life when I was in to address immigration reform in our ing in a much more complicated world school. I participated in national pag- country, but a first step, not a step in- of immigrants coming into Europe, eants placing as a national achieve- stead of. but, again, respecting the dignity and ment finalist. I graduated high school And it is a confidence-building step worth of every person. with a medical assistant certification that we can find common ground in, in And he came here in this Chamber and became a recipient of a bipartisan way, and we must, if it is and spoke about a few subjects. As you TheDream.US scholarship, which recall, one of them was poverty and going to be sustainable, just as the bill helped me pursue my higher education. how we respect the dignity and worth was in 1986 that President Reagan im- DACA has also given me a chance to of people that Christ mentioned so proved upon with his family fairness give back to other DREAMers by being many times in the Bible. As we know, initiatives. an intern at My Undocumented Life So that is why let’s just think of it as poor people are mentioned in the Bible hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of blog.’’ about the children. We should always ‘‘U.S. DACA recipients are not here times because of how important our re- be thinking about the children. They to harm the U.S. The U.S. is our home sponsibility is to them. are the future. They own the future. and will always be our home. We are They are it. And when children come to But he also talked about immigra- tion. He talked about immigration in a part of the fabric that makes the Washington, D.C., and they visit and American flag. For that, I am willing see how we honor our Founders, George very important way. And as I get his statement, I will instead read from to come out of the shadows so you can Washington, Lincoln—later to save the see me.’’ Union, Lincoln—but earlier, Thomas Gloria Rinconi, a medical assistant from Dallas, Texas. Again, this American Dream of mak- Jefferson, et cetera, and walk these She said: ‘‘I am a girl who you grad- ing the future better is recurring in all Halls and see tributes to people who uated next to, the girl who you talked of these stories, and in all of these sto- went before, we say: In most cases, this to daily, the girl who has finally de- ries there has been success. Again, is about respecting contributions these cided to step away from the shadows though, it is not just about the people made to our country, especially and into the light for you to see her. DREAMers. It is about who we are. our big monuments on The Mall, and ‘‘See me as for who I am, not for Luis Roberto. I talked about Luis al- most recently, Reverend Martin Luther someone who told you I would be. ready. I gave his speech. We had his King, Jr., there. ‘‘I immigrated to the United States speech from his graduating class. We honor them, we learn from them, when I was a year old with my parents. Luz Divina writes: ‘‘I came to the we value them. But what we do here is My parents had taken the decision to U.S. from . . . Mexico when I was 2 values-based on how they taught us. immigrate to USA due to being in a months old. I didn’t know I was un- But it is about the future, and this is country that offered no future for their documented until sophomore year of about how we can go into the future family. Even though both my parents high school when I realized I couldn’t making distinctions, discerning. Dis- ran a successful business and my mom get a driver’s permit, apply for jobs, or cerning, having the ability to say there had a college education, the violence go to college programs like all my is some things we can get done, let’s do and underemployment was no future friends were doing. I felt depressed and them; other things take more time. for us. The first place we called home oppressed for years until I finally ap- Let’s build confidence, build bridges in was a small apartment in Dallas, plied for DACA when Obama imple- what we do, again, always trying to do Texas, who we shared with another mented his executive order. I finally it with bipartisanship, with trans- family. We lived in Texas for a year had a chance at the real world. I start- parency so people know what the de- and moved to Statesville, North Caro- ed a collective in high school named bate is and what is in the bill, and that lina. We then moved to the outskirts of ‘The Luzdivina Collective’ that helped brings unity to our country. I think the little town in some rundown trailer DREAMers in my high school and vic- that is very possible. homes. tims of social injustice in my commu- I am very proud to read these state- ‘‘We had nothing. My parents slept nity. I am currently trying to get into ments into the RECORD, and I will con- on the floor while I made a makeshift education—either ethnic studies or art, tinue to do so. But during the night, bed out of a piece of cardboard and a maybe both. The announcement of when I was thinking and praying so blanket. After months of saving up DACA ending has put me back into a hard about our DREAMers, I thought money, my dad finally had enough to state of depression, but I’m trying my maybe we should just pray all day on rent an apartment near downtown hardest to overcome this with the help the floor of Congress. Maybe I should Statesville. After 9 years, we moved of my friends and family. My dream is bring my rosary blessed by the Pope, again to Texas. Growing up, my par- to be an educator, activist, and writer, blessed by His Holiness Pope Francis, ents never hid the fact that I was un- to inspire DREAMers like myself who or the one before that, Benedict. documented from me. They always told are currently or have been in a state of I had the honor and privilege of re- me, ‘Just because you were not born depression due to their legal status.’’ ceiving rosaries blessed by several here, does not mean you are any less. We have to remember how strong the Popes in my lifetime, but I always re- You are loved by many, regardless of DREAMers are but how fragile some of member Pope Benedict. When he came, what you might hear on TV.’ ’’ their existence is when they have no he spoke so beautifully. He spoke so ‘‘Those words became my rock when certainty as to what the next steps will beautifully. His first encyclical is I was in high school. When I was a be for them. Again, this is all about called, ‘‘God is love.’’ In it, he quotes freshman, my mom was diagnosed with family, about parents who had the St. Augustine, who, 17 centuries ago, stage 4 breast cancer. For months she courage to bring their children at an said: ‘‘Any government that is not struggled trying to find treatment at early age to America. This happened formed to promote justice is just a an affordable rate. Doctors would turn 100 years ago. bunch of thieves.’’ her down simply because of her illegal Do you think all of the people who That is what St. Augustine said 17 status, even though she offered to ne- came here all came documented? centuries ago. He, Benedict, His Holi- gotiate a payment plan. She was dying, Maybe we should all look up our ances- ness, goes on to say: Sometimes it is and no one seemed to care. Her only sin try and just find out what the facts are hard to define what justice is, but in was to be an undocumented woman about that. We assume so, but do we doing so, we must beware of the daz- with stage 4 cancer. She eventually really know? zling blindness of power and special in- found treatment, but I had seen first- And there are many people—as I said terest. hand how dehumanizing people can be earlier, Italians were called wops, with- That is what he said. But this doesn’t towards the undocumented. During out papers. That was a derogatory have any of that. This has social jus- this time, DACA was put into place and term. It is disgusting for me to say it, tice, it has camaraderie, it has good it officially opened the door for being an Italian American and so proud spirit. It is based on faith, hope, and me. . . . of my heritage. As I said earlier, we

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:53 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.032 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H924 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 grew up thinking that the world was subsidiarity, in a constant effort to do of social justice here. But they do have divided among two people in America: our best. I am confident we can do access. those who were Italian American and this.’’ And one of the things I want to those who wanted to be Italian Amer- How beautiful. And then he goes on praise them for is I think that the 90 ican. Certainly, it feels that way in to talk about immigration in the rest percent, 80 percent, 70 percent ratings, Little Italy in Baltimore, where I grew of the world. And then he says: depending on if it is citizenship or up, and in San Francisco, whom I have ‘‘We need to avoid a common tempta- what, but the high numbers across the the honor to represent. tion nowadays: to disregard whatever board for DREAMers would not have But, in any event, we all take pride proves troublesome. Let us remember been possible without people hearing in our heritage, and that is the best— the Golden Rule: Do unto others as you from the bishops, from law enforce- best—qualification for recognizing the would have them do unto you.’’ ment, and from the business commu- pride that other people take in their I will submit his whole statement for nity making this a very high-profile heritage. I say this to the Italian the RECORD because it goes on in such issue about how their companies have Americans all the time: Because I am a beautiful, beautiful way. It also talks benefited from the DREAMers and how so proud to be an Italian American, I about climate in there, Laudato Si, they truly believe. understand full well why people from which is his first encyclical about This is not an issue that is going to Mexico or Puerto Rico or Africa or God’s creation, this planet, and our re- go away. It is a value. It is not an wherever they are from take pride in sponsibilities to be good stewards of it. issue. It may be a subject for legisla- who they are, their dignity, the au- I am talking about His Holiness. Get- tion, but this is an American value thenticity of their heritage, and who ting to the Bible is part of it. We that is deeply felt across the board. they are. talked about the Bible earlier. I And I am determined that the stories And in America, that beauty, the thought maybe we could say a Rosary of at least some of these DREAMers— beauty is in the mix. It certainly is in on the floor of the House, not just five I can’t do 800,000, although I am willing my district. But in some communities, decades, the full Rosary, all of the to take the time. That might lose im- the contributions of immigrants are mysteries of the Rosary, that is 15 dec- pact after awhile, after some of these not as recent as in others. But in every ades of the Rosary. But, nonetheless, I great stories. community, it has made a difference, think these people telling their stories Listen to Maneri: ‘‘I’m 18 years old constantly reinvigorating America. are very prayerful, and so I will use the and from Los Angeles. I just graduated And so when His Holiness Pope time to put their stories on the high school and will be attending Francis came to speak here in the Con- RECORD. UCLA to study political science in the gress, as a Catholic Italian American— But let me just say how proud I am of fall. Being an undocumented student that is the essence of my being—it was the statements made by the U.S. Con- has been tough. Coming to this country really a thrilling day. It was for all of ference of Catholic Bishops, their cour- at 6 years old completely changed my us, regardless of our background or our age in fighting for immigrants across life. Learning English and doing well in faith. I was particularly thrilled to our country, from our cardinals, our school was a battle since everyone in hear what he said about immigration. bishops, et cetera, from their esteemed my finally only spoke Spanish. . . . But you recall, he talked about Mar- platforms, whether it is the DREAMers Being a DREAMer also shaped who I tin Luther King and the march from or TPS or comprehensive immigration am, what I stand for. . . . After gradua- Selma to Montgomery. He talked about reform. But right now, today, we are tion, I hope to go to law school. . . . ’’ people living in poverty, and he talked talking about the DREAMers. I already told you this story, but it about a number of subjects, but I will The evangelicals in our country, Rev- bears repeating. just speak to what he said about immi- erend Sam Rodriguez’ statements, have ‘‘I dream that one day, your immi- gration. The Pope solemnly said: ‘‘In been so spectacular about, again, the gration status doesn’t define your recent centuries, millions of people spark of divinity that exists in every path. . . . ’’ came to this land to pursue their person that must be respected, strong Alonso: ‘‘Growing up undocumented dream of building a future in freedom. supporters of President Trump also be- in Utah truly shaped me into the per- We, the people of this continent’’—be- lieving that it is possible for all of us son I am today. My experiences grow- cause, as you know, His Holiness is the to have enough goodness in our hearts ing up in the margins of society inform first Pope from the Western Hemi- to get this job done, go past any obsta- the work I do and the work I seek to sphere. cles that may be there. continue doing in this life. I am pas- ‘‘We, the people of this continent, are Again, the Southern Baptist Conven- sionate about working with undocu- not fearful of foreigners because most tion, their leadership, all across the mented students and families and of us were once foreigners. I say this to spectrum, of course, the Jewish com- strive to share all of my knowledge and you as the son of immigrants’’— munity, across the full spectrum of experiences with the undocumented Italian, by the way. faith-based organizations, all speaking community as well the community as a ‘‘I say this to you as the son of immi- out and rallying as people rallied when whole. grants, knowing that so many of you we first saw the Muslim ban. ‘‘I was born in Peru and emigrated to are also descended from immigrants. The people of faith are people of the United States when I was 11. I ar- Tragically, the rights of those who faith. They believe, and they believe rived in Utah with my brother to unite were here long before us were not al- that we have obligations to each other. with our mother, who had come to the ways respected. For those people and They have spoken out in a very coura- U.S. a year before our arrival. Six their nations, from the heart of Amer- geous way. months after arriving in the U.S. with ican democracy, I wish to reaffirm my In terms of the badges, I told you a tourist visa, my visa expired. . . . ’’ highest esteem and appreciation. Those some stories about DREAMers who So he came into the country with first contacts were often turbulent and have come forth to help with law en- legal status. And this is something I violent, but it is difficult to judge the forcement. By and large, we have had think that is really important. Not ev- past by the criteria of the present. strong support from the law enforce- erybody who is undocumented came Nonetheless, when the stranger in our ment community about support for the here in an undocumented fashion. midst appeals to us, we must not re- DREAMers. Some of the documentation is expired peat the sins and errors of the past. We And the business community, oh, my, and, in the case of DACA, just a ques- must resolve now to live as nobly and they have been spectacular in terms of tion of when the mail hit and what day as justly as possible, as we educate new raising the profile, treating their em- it was received by the government. generations not to turn their back on ployees who are DREAMers with re- ‘‘I was 12 and a hardworking student, our ‘neighbors’ and everything around spect, advocating for them. earning good grades working toward a us. Building a nation calls us to recog- And this Congress of the United future that would allow me to repay nize that we must constantly relate to States, they seem to have a strong my mom for all of her sacrifices. As a others, rejecting a mindset of hostility voice on some issues. I wish they would high school student, I enrolled in hon- in order to adopt one of reciprocal be listened to as attentively on issues ors and AP courses, which challenged

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:49 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.034 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H925 me and furthered my plans of earning a DACA recipients have a key role to know the DREAMers, the better it will higher education. play in healing the differences that di- be for our country. ‘‘I graduated from high school with a vide us. Vasthy Lamadrid came to the United diploma of merit and went to the Uni- Oscar Cornejo, Jr., was brought to States from Mexico when she was only versity of Utah, where I would major in Park City, Utah, when he was 5 years 5 years old. Despite her family’s mod- sociology and be mentored by incred- old. He was an excellent student est means, Vasthy felt safe and ex- ible individuals. Most pointedly, Matt throughout his childhood and now at- celled in school. Math was her best sub- Bradley Ph.D., rest in peace 2012; tends Dartmouth. If DACA is elimi- ject, and she had nearly perfect scores Caitlyn Cahill, Ph.D.; and David nated, Oscar will lose his legal status on standardized tests. Quijada Cerecer, Ph.D. My mentors and could be deported back to Mexico, In middle school, Vasthy discovered showed me that my work, insight, and a country he hasn’t lived in since he the love of engineering. She excelled contributions as an undocumented stu- was 5 years old. academically and was active in her dent are important. . . . ’’ Will America be stronger if we deport community. Now, imagine, this child came in doc- Oscar? Will America be stronger if we Vasthy has gone on to attend Arizona umented but became undocumented deport Oscar, or if he stays here and State University, again, I mention, a when the visa expired. achieves his dream of becoming an edu- great school. Because of her immigra- ‘‘. . . and I truly owe them for show- cator? The answer is clear. DACA tion status, she does not qualify for ing me that I matter for being who I works. any government assistance and has to am. Lisette Diaz was just 6 years old pay out-of-state tuition, despite having ‘‘In 2013, I graduated from the Uni- when her family brought her to the lived in Arizona for most of her life. To help pay for her education, versity of Utah with an honors bach- U.S. from Chile. Growing up in Long Is- Vasthy decided to crowdfund her col- elor of science in sociology, and in 2016 land, Lisette excelled in school and was lege education. Vasthy shared her with a master’s in education . . . with involved in her community. She went story online, and this brought in an emphasis on higher education ad- on to attend Harvard, where she re- enough contributions to pay for her ministration. I am currently the ceived numerous awards and partici- tuition. She is currently in her second Dreamer Program Coordinator for the pated in a variety of extracurricular activities. Lisette recently graduated year of college. In her first semester, University of Utah, which is the first Harvard with honors. she made the dean’s list with a 3.79 center for DREAMers in the State of Lisette and other DREAMers have so GPA in the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Utah.’’ much to contribute to our country, but Engineering. God bless you, Utah. Donald Trump and other Republicans Thanks to DACA, Vasthy is able to ‘‘In the future, I would like to pursue have made their agenda clear. They work to support herself and volunteer a Ph.D. in sociology with a focus on want to shut down DACA and DAPA in her community. As a result of her immigration and labor studies.’’ and deport hundreds of thousands of volunteer work, Vasthy has decided This is important because, once DREAMers and American children. that she wants to become a science again, as has been consistent in these That is Lisette’s view. I hope that we teacher. themes, the DREAMers are grateful for have a better understanding of where Okay. So I have been going through the mentoring they have received from the President may be on this. We don’t some of these rather quickly in order people in our country, some of whom want Lisette to be deported back to to get as many of them in the RECORD shared their heritage, most of whom Chile, a country where she hasn’t lived as possible. But I do want to change did not. That is the beautiful thing since she was 6 years old. my pace a little bit because some of about the DREAMers: they know that When Cynthia Sanchez was just 7 these stories are so emotion-filled, and they have a dream, but somebody else years old, her family came to the I can place the statement in the had a plan for their own dream that in- United States from Mexico. Cynthia RECORD, but I want to deliver the sto- spired the DREAMers to have their grew up in Denver, Colorado, and was ries. plan. an excellent student. She went on to I am trying to be respectful of other b 1200 attend the University of Denver, where people’s time, but I am also trying to she received numerous awards and be respectful of the challenge that we When Yuri Hernandez was only 3 scholarships and was an active volun- face and the need for us to find a solu- years old, her family brought her to teer. tion which is clear in sight for our the United States from Mexico. Yuri In 2010, Cynthia graduated from col- DREAMers. grew up in the town of Coos Bay in Or- lege with a degree in cognitive neuro- Fernando’s family came to the egon. In high school, she was an honor science, which is a double major in psy- United States when he was 9 years old. roll student who was very active in her chology and biology, as well as a minor In high school, Fernando was an AP community. Yuri went on to attend the in chemistry. Scholar and received the International University of Portland, where she grad- In 2013, she applied for DACA and was Baccalaureate Diploma and the uated with a bachelor’s degree in social approved that summer. By September, achievement award in foreign language work. Cynthia was working at Northwestern for French. Yuri is now a graduate student at the University in Chicago doing clinical re- Fernando continued to excel aca- University of Michigan School of So- search in the Department of Medicine’s demically at Santa Clara University, cial Work. She is planning to graduate Division of Cardiology. Her research fo- where he graduated cum laude with a with a master’s in social work in the cuses on improving treatment for pa- double major in biology and french. fall of 2017. In her spare time, she tu- tients who suffer from heart disease. Now a third-year doctoral student at tors and mentors high school students. Cynthia said: ‘‘DACA has meant a UC San Francisco—the ultimate, fabu- Yuri dreams of becoming a social new realm of opportunities for me, it lous place, right—Fernando—it is very worker and giving back to her commu- has opened new doors for me, and it has hard to get in—works at the UCSF nity. allowed me to once again see my dream Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Rey Pineda was brought to America as a reality. I truly believe that if Cancer Center, where he is working when he was 2 years old. The first in those opposed to DACA or the Dream hard to provide new insights into many his family to attend college and a de- Act had a chance to sit and chat with diseases and disorders. Again, giving vout Catholic, Rey is now a priest in undocumented students, their opinions back. the Cathedral of Christ the King in At- might change. They would see capable, Denisse Rojas—in 1990, Denisse tells lanta, Georgia. If DACA is eliminated, smart, hardworking individuals who her story that when she was an infant, Father Rey will lose his legal status are Americans in every sense of the her parents carried her across the and could be deported back to Mexico, word, love this country, and want to Southwest border with the hope of giv- a tragedy for Father Rey and his con- contribute to its prosperity. After all, ing her and her siblings a better life. gregation. this is our home.’’ Just think of this family, so coura- After the most divisive election in That is really very beautiful. I do be- geous. Denisse’s family settled in Fre- recent memory, Father Rey and other lieve that the more our colleagues mont, California.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:53 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.035 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H926 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 Denisse said, in her words: ‘‘In grade number one in my major, wrote two away. I only hope for other young school, I recall feeling different from first-author papers, won research DREAMers and undocumented children my peers; my skin color was darker, awards, and have a patent pending. like myself to make the leap to push my English was stilted, I was poor, and ‘‘Consequently, I was accepted into that shut door open, to know a dream I was undocumented.’’ graduate school at Columbia Univer- of wanting more is not impossible.’’ In 2012, when President Obama estab- sity. However, due to my status, I’m This is one of the DREAMers I met at lished DACA, Denisse’s life changed. As unable to obtain a stipend to continue the State of the Union. Perhaps you re- a DACA recipient, Denisse’s dreams fi- my education. Receiving DACA would member, America is her name. She was nally seemed within reach. She was grant me the opportunity to acquire the guest of DAVID PRICE from North able to apply to medical schools that the funding I need, provide for my fam- Carolina, and she spoke at our press before would have turned her away be- ily, and master my craft to realize my event with the DREAMers. cause of her immigration status. This full potential. But due to election re- America immigrated to the U.S. meant that she could focus on pursuing sults, applying for DACA is simply not when she was 2 years old and has lived a career in medicine and no longer fear a favorable option anymore. in Raleigh, North Carolina, for 22 the possibility of losing the only home ‘‘Without DACA, many live in daily years. Thanks to DACA, she was able she had ever known. fear of deportation. I’ve had friends to earn bachelor’s and master’s de- Denisse said: ‘‘I have pledged alle- whose families were torn apart.’’ grees. She now teaches English as a giance to this Nation’s values since my This is Kok-Leong Seow. second language at Sanderson High first day of school; I consider the ‘‘These are genuine, everyday strug- School in Raleigh. She was just so United States my home. Furthermore, gles, and it’s easy to dismiss it because lovely. We thank DAVID PRICE for in- serving others has instilled in me the it’s not happening to your family. To troducing her to us. notion that everyone deserves the op- truly empathize, you need to dig deep Another guest at that same press portunity for prosperity. I thus aim to and allow yourself to feel our pain and conference, as some of you may recall, dedicate my life to serving others as a our anxiety.’’ was the guest of Senator KAMALA HAR- physician and continuing to be a voice This is a very important message, for RIS. Denea Joseph is her name. Denea for immigrants.’’ us to dig deep and experience their pain is a DACA recipient who came to Reading Denisse’s story about her and anxiety. America from Belize when she was 7 being concerned in grade school, ‘‘I re- ‘‘Many non-Native Americans seem years old without her mother, father, call feeling different from my peers; to forget that they, too, have immigra- or siblings. She attended the Univer- my skin color was darker, my English tion in their blood. Just like everyone sity of California, Los Angeles, where was stilted,’’ I am reminded of my own else, we simply want an opportunity to she advocated for the creation of an grandson. He is Irish, English, what- contribute to the only home that we immigration attorney position and ever, whatever, and Italian American. know. Ironically, I’ve enjoyed the ad- worked to increase financial aid for un- He is a mix, but he looks more like the versity. I feel alive under pressure. I documented youth across the UC sys- other side of the family, shall we say. am unfazed and undocumented. I’m not tem. I wish you could have heard her When he had his sixth birthday, he going anywhere.’’ personally tell her story with such in- had a very close friend whose name is He is not leaving. tellect and such passion. Antonio. He is from Guatemala, and he Gladys Klamka, Phillispburg, New b 1215 has beautiful tan skin, beautiful brown Jersey. ‘‘Patience and heartache is how eyes, and the rest. This was such a I would describe my past. I was 2 when She goes on here to say: As a Young proud day for me because when my my family made the most important People For fellow, Denea addressed un- grandson blew out the candles on his decision for us. Moving to the U.S. documented youths’ educational access cake, I said: ‘‘Did you make a wish? meant a second chance for me. If we and retention. Her story was featured And he said: ‘‘Yes, I made a wish.’’ We had stayed in Mexico, my folks would in the LA Magazine’s historic immigra- said: ‘‘What is your wish.’’ He said: ‘‘I have made a decision to give me up for tion issue, and is currently on display wish I had brown skin and brown eyes adoption. We settled in NJ for eco- as part of the Undocumented Stories like Antonio.’’ It was so beautiful, so nomic relief. Exhibit at downtown UCLA Labor Cen- beautiful. ‘‘Unfortunately, at the age of 4, my ter. She is a communications coordi- The beauty is in the mix. The face of innocence was stolen from me. I was nator for UndocuBlack Network— the future for our country is all-Amer- sexually molested by a 16-year-old boy, UndocuBlack is a resource to us. Many ican, and that has many versions. but my parents didn’t report it, they of the DREAMers are Black—where she Kok-Leong Seow: ‘‘None of my didn’t understand the law, for fear of advocates for the representation of friends from my hometown know. My deportation. Both of my parents UndocuBlack immigrants within the parents raised me to be gritty, never to worked full time to keep a roof over mainstream immigrant narrative. She complain or take handouts. I didn’t our heads. I wasn’t able to go off to col- aspires to be a human rights attorney, want to have a victim mentality or be lege financially or drive or travel. I got advocating for the rights of the most known for being undocumented. But I used to doors slamming in my face,’’ marginalized around the globe. realized that sharing my story would Gladys writes. I mentioned here that her story is be therapeutic, raise awareness, and ‘‘I was about 14 when my parents ex- featured in LA Magazine’s historic im- help other underprivileged people. plained to me about our status. Con- migration issue and is on display at the ‘‘I came to America when I was 6 fused about my future, I decided to downtown UCLA Labor Center, and years old. My parents grew up poor and push harder. I finished school, worked now it will be part of the CONGRES- risked so much to move us here with full time, and contributed back to the SIONAL RECORD. hopes of giving us a better life. My dad community. Miriam Ochoa-Garibay said: ‘‘I’m 18 is a waiter at a small restaurant, which ‘‘I received a taxpayer ID issued by years old and I’m a DACA student cur- is enough to put food on the table and the IRS in 1997. I always thought it was rently enrolled at the University of clothes on our backs. We pay taxes, funny that the government will take California, Riverside. I came here from abide by all laws, and don’t live on wel- our money but not let us work legally a Mexican background. I was born in fare. in this country. the Mexican state of Michoacan, but ‘‘As for me, I can’t legally work, ‘‘I applied for DACA in 2012. I still re- I’ve been living in the United States drive, fly, or have health insurance. member the day I opened my approval since I was 2. I went to preschool, I’ve missed out on numerous opportu- letter. My father said: ‘Now I don’t kinder, elementary, intermediate nities because of my situation. Fortu- have to worry about you.’ school, and high school in the State of nately, I was able to pursue college. ‘‘I now own my own home, car, and I California. I always loved school. I re- ‘‘Fast forward 4 years, I have grad- work in the healthcare system. After member being a little girl and getting uated magna cum laude in computer election day, I wondered if this dream home from school, and the first thing I engineering from Wichita State Uni- would soon end. It’s been a hard reality did was start my homework. I remem- versity. I was at the top of my class, check that privileges could be taken ber that, as early as elementary school,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:49 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.037 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H927 there was this test called GATE. It was think twice. We all knew it was an ad- work, and contribute in this country, supposed to be the smart kids’ test, vantage and a precious opportunity the but because I believe in the core values and every year I passed it. I remember country had given us. Finally, we were all Americans shares as a nation: lib- being an honors student. My parents given the chance to prove that we are erty, justice, and prosperity.’’ were very persistent on me getting part of this country’s future and suc- Ha Eun and other DREAMers have so good grades because that meant a bet- cess. much to contribute to our country. But ter future. It wasn’t until I was in high ‘‘Because of DACA, I am able to say without DACA or the Dream Act, they school where I realized that maybe it that I am a part-time student and part- will be deported back to countries was going to take more than just good time staff for an afterschool program. I where they haven’t lived in since they grades to go to college. I became really am two steps closer to becoming a were children. aware that I was undocumented. I be- businesswoman and a teacher, and that Will America be a stronger country if came fearful that I was not going to gives me hope. Sadly, however, the new we deport people like Ha Eun? have a ‘better future’ because I was un- administration has posed threats that The answer is clear. That is a ques- documented. I knew that, financially, will make my hope and my dreams tion that has arisen throughout. We my parents weren’t going to be able to unreachable. If the permit is taken asked it earlier. pay for college. So when DACA came away, our hard work will become Will America be a stronger country if into place, it was a huge relief. There worthless. I want to give back to this we deport—fill in the blank with the was finally a program that accepted country, so I yearn Congress to give me name? me, an undocumented student. DACA that chance.’’ But I love what Ha Eun has said: means everything to me. Not only do I Many of the stories that I have been ‘‘And I believe this not solely because I have financial aid for my college tui- reading so far have been, but not all, live, study, work, and contribute in tion, but I was granted the opportunity about people in our own hemisphere. this country, but because I believe in to work legally’’—to work legally. How But it is important to note that many the core values all Americans share as lovely—‘‘to find a job and be able to undocumenteds are from the Asian-Pa- a nation: liberty, justice, and pros- make money for my needs. DACA be- cific region. Many are from Africa or perity.’’ came a reassuring force to many stu- from the Caribbean. That is our hemi- Tomas Evangelista is a DACA recipi- dents like myself, whose only desire is sphere, but not in terms of Latin ent from Auburn, California. At the to be given an education in order to be- America, but in terms of the Carib- age of 2, he came to the United States come a successful factor of this soci- bean. So some are even from other from Mexico with his mother in search ety. I am proud to be Mexican, but I’m places that are not necessarily eth- of a better life. Unfortunately, after a also proud to be part of America’s nically diverse. year of being together in the United great educational system. DACA has Here is one story about Ha Eun Lee. States, his mother passed away from given me the opportunity to dream of Today I want to tell you about Ha Eun cancer. my own white picket fence one day.’’ Lee. When Ha Eun was 6 years old, her Can you imagine? This is interesting to me because, as family came to the United States from His grandparents took him in and he an Italian American myself, I always South Korea. She grew up in Bloom- grew up in northern California, where reference, which is so obvious when field Hills, Michigan. Here is what Ha he ran cross country and track at people are proud of their heritage, es- Eun says about her childhood in the Pacer High School. pecially newer immigrants, to see the United States of America: ‘‘I was fortu- These all-American kids, it is just a pride that they take in their heritage nate enough to grow up learning that beautiful story. and the fierce patriotism they have for diversity is encouraged and differences Following his high school career, America. That was what we saw in our are not just tolerated but welcomed.’’ Tomas received an associate of arts in community when I was growing up: Ha Eun was a good student and com- social science, and, in 2014, he com- fiercely patriotic Americans, while mitted to public service. In high pleted his bachelor’s of arts degree. very proud of their heritage. And that school, she was a member of the Na- Today, he works for the nonprofit orga- is who people are. That is their authen- tional Honor Society, received the nization Latino Leadership Council. He tic self: patriotic Americans proud of Principal’s Academic Achievement also intends to attend Lincoln Law their heritage. We want to make this, Award, and was an Oakland Activities School in Sacramento, California, in as was said in this, to be legal. Association Scholar Athlete. She was a spring of 2018. Ana Sanchez is from Elgin, Texas. I member of the track and field team for Tomas cofounded California Dream- don’t know if they say Elgin in Texas. all 4 years of high school. ers with fellow DACA recipient Doris Ana says: ‘‘Like any other beneficiary Ha Eun is now a senior at the Univer- Romero. They seek to change the nega- of DACA, I, for once, have been given sity of Michigan, majoring in English. tive narratives surrounding immigra- the opportunity to pursue my dreams She volunteers with the Red Cross and tion with facts. They want to change by attaining higher education and a is the co-president of an organization the narrative with facts, the truth, job. I am Ana Sanchez, an 18-year-old called The Supply. The Supply raises through sharing personal stories. The undocumented student who was money to help students in Nairobi, ultimate goal is to encourage immigra- brought to this country when I was Kenya, to attain an education. tion reform and to establish a pathway only 2 years old. Due to living condi- She is from South Korea, an all- to citizenship. tions in my home country, my parents American girl, now a co-president of an Vanessa Rodriguez story: ‘‘My name decided to immigrate to the United organization that raises money to help is Vanessa Rodriguez, and they all call States to offer me and my sister a students in Nairobi, Kenya, to attain me Undocumented Dreamer. Undocu- much better education and a better fu- an education. mented because I was born south of the ture. Growing up, I was aware that I As co-president, Ha Eun has ex- United States border, and Dreamer be- had been born in Mexico, however, I did panded the organization’s efforts to in- cause that was the inherent last name not know the effects of being undocu- clude volunteering locally with Detroit that my parents gave me when they mented until high school came about. charities. risked their souls to give me a better Now that I am older, I realize who I am Ha Eun was also a policy and pro- future.’’ in the eyes of the government, and it grams intern for the Asian Americans They called her Dreamer—called her saddens me to know that people believe Advancing Justice Center. As Ha Eun Dreamer as her last name. these misconceptions of us. I mean, completes her last year of college, she Vanessa continues to say: ‘‘I have ever since we arrived to Texas, my dad dreams of becoming a lawyer to defend lived in Texas for 12 years, and for 12 has risked his health and life by work- civil rights. years I have known no other home. My ing under dangerous conditions just to Ha Eun wrote me a letter, and she father works in construction and my earn enough money to provide food and said: ‘‘Although I’m legally labeled as mother works as a housemaid. Their shelter for my family. When it was an- an ‘alien’ in this country I call home, I hard work and humble occupations nounced that DACA would be available believe I am American. And I believe have given my family a chance to do for people like me, my family did not this not solely because I live, study, more and dream higher; a chance that

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:49 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.039 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H928 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 made me the salutatorian of my class ‘‘After returning her call, we shared President Obama issued the DACA ex- and a recipient of the State of Texas our feelings of excitement and confu- ecutive order. Student Hero Award. However, their sion regarding the matter at hand. None of this success would have been work only granted me a chance to Then she informed me President possible without the leadership, per- dream, not a chance to accomplish. Barack Obama would be making an an- sistence, optimism, and the courage of Only the government could grant me nouncement at any moment. As soon Senator DURBIN. He has heard all of that. So, for years, I lived under the as I hung up, I read through a few more these stories, so many of these stories notion of fear and uncertainty. text messages, called my mom, and ran firsthand for nearly two decades. I con- DREAMers like me kept their dreams outside the tent to inform the MAA gratulate him. and secured them in a box called ‘limi- family about the news.’’ And as I have said earlier, our call tations.’ It was until the arrival of Can you just imagine the excite- today is for our Speaker to give the DACA that things changed for us. ment? They were out camping. same opportunity to House Members to DACA enabled us to pursue and achieve Alonso continues to say: ‘‘Within a vote on a DREAMers bill, just as they more. For me, it meant an opportunity few minutes, all MAA participants were able to achieve in the Senate. at pursuing hiring education, obtaining crammed ourselves into two cars in Senator MCCONNELL, the Senate lead- a job, and acquiring something called Little Cottonwood Canyon, where we er, has been working with a bipartisan temporary security. One year of this tuned into the radio eager to listen to group of which he has always been a security from deportation was what President Obama announce the pro- part—it has always been about biparti- made the beginning of my dream a suc- gram which we all have come to know sanship—pledged to bring to the Senate cess. I was free from fear of deportation as consideration of Deferred Action for floor a vehicle that the Senate will act that enabled me to gain competence in Childhood Arrivals, DACA.’’ upon, no guarantees. The Senate will my abilities.’’ work its will. What dignity that brings b 1230 People sharing their stories in such a to the United States Senate, what com- clear way, and, in many cases, a very ‘‘My story is one of hundreds of thou- mitment to the purpose of America well-written way. sands of DACA stories across the that is there. Vanessa continues to say: ‘‘A few United States. We all have different We feel like second-class Members of weeks ago I finished my first semester backgrounds, first and last names, in- Congress over here when it is not with- at the University of Texas at Austin’’— terests, journeys, and goals; however, in our realm to discuss something that which is a very hard school to get into, we all have at least one thing in com- is being discussed across the country, by the way—‘‘and although I was a full- mon: we are all American DREAMers. in the Senate of the United States, at time student with two part-time jobs, I Since DACA, I have earned an honors the White House. But here, we can’t still managed to obtain an outstanding B.S. in sociology and M.Ed. in edu- have the opportunity to officially dis- GPA. DACA has made all these accom- cational leadership and policy from the cuss legislation that is on the floor. plishments possible and it has been the University of Utah. I am an active That is why I am taking this time, difference between simply existing and community member and have most re- my congressional leadership 1-minute, living a dream. cently been honored to serve as the to read into the RECORD these inspiring ‘‘As the time approaches for the new Dream Program Coordinator at the stories. Again, it brings tears to my administration to come in, the fear is University of Utah, where I seek to eyes. Excuse me for being emotional starting to become more evident. The support undocumented students, with about it, but when I think of the con- uncertainty and anxiety is real. and without DACA, to access, persist, tribution that Senator DURBIN has ‘‘My question to Congress is: When and achieve a higher education in the will you unchain my dreams? When my made to this, the stories he has heard, country we all call home.’’ the stories he has told—I have seen only hope is taken away alongside The way they write these stories and DACA? Or will you fight to protect stu- him receive with great respect and the excitement and the anxiety that dents like me from deportation?’’ honor across the country getting so they convey is really something that It is not even a fight. It is a simple many awards from people who see him decision. It is a simple decision. It has the printed word may not convey. But as a person who understands their anx- been made easy by separating it from I hope at least the RECORD will show iety and concern but, as important as the more complicated and controver- the cumulative effect of all of these that, their possibilities and their con- sial aspects of comprehensive immigra- stories. I wish you could see them. tribution to America. tion reform, which we must address. It A person who has seen more of them That is why, as I said earlier, Sen- is about the children. It is about the than anyone honors us with his pres- ator DURBIN should think of this as the children. ence in the Chamber. We all get emo- CHIP versus healthcare; as the chair of Alonso R. Reyna Rivarola’s story tional on this subject, but no one has the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, goes like this. ‘‘I will always remember put more brainpower and passion into Congresswoman MICHELLE LUJAN GRIS- the day DACA was announced. It was this subject than the distinguished HAM, has described in front of the Rules June 15, 2012, and I was camping for a Senator from Illinois. Committee, think of this as CHIP retreat with students, friends, and col- He has served in this body for a long versus healthcare, children versus com- leagues from the Mestizo Arts & Activ- time, so we know of his leadership and prehensive immigration reform. ism Collective, a youth participatory his values. But for all the years he has This is one clear opportunity where action research collective in Salt Lake served in public life before Congress we can come together not as a sub- City, Utah. At approximately 10 a.m., and since, and in the House and now as stitute for comprehensive, but as a the group took a break from the agen- a leader in the Senate, the DREAMers step, confidence building, trust build- da, which I used to go back to the tent have been a priority for half of his ing, in a bipartisan way, with trans- to check on my phone. When I turned service in public life. parency and in a unifying way for our my phone back on, I was taken aback He first introduced the DREAM Act country. by the number of text messages, missed in 2001 into the Senate. It was intro- So I thank the gentleman, Senator calls, and voicemails I was receiving. duced over on our side by LUCILLE ROY- DURBIN. Buzz, buzz, buzz, buzz, buzz, buzz. BAL-ALLARD around the same time. She Because of the leader minute, I am ‘‘ ‘The Dream Act has passed!’ shout- is the mother, the godmother of the not able to yield; otherwise, I would ed a close friend of mine, a fellow DREAM Act that has been advanced. have nearly 200 people seeking recogni- DREAMer, in a voicemail. I was ex- In 2010, we were able to pass the tion on the floor to tell the stories of cited, yet confused by her words, know- DREAM Act in the House under the their DREAMers. I have told some of ing at the time no Dream Act bill was leadership of Mr. DURBIN, Senator DUR- them, but our colleagues are so com- being debated in the U.S. Congress or BIN. It received a majority of the votes mitted and unified on this subject, and Senate. However, as confused as I was, in the United States Senate but did not their constituents are. I was too adrenalized at the possibility reach the 60 threshold, and so the dis- But even if a colleague on the other that a quiet Dream Act boxcar bill had cussion goes on. As you know, shortly side of the aisle would say, ‘‘Will the made its way into becoming a law. thereafter, a couple of years later, gentlewoman yield?’’ the rules do not

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I said not just 5 decades, Mark 9:37.’ ’’ do, but with great intellect, to have a all 15 decades, including the Glorious That is so beautiful because what vision and a dream, but an intellect Mysteries. They were the sad ones in they are saying is, when you reject with a plan to get the job done. the middle: the Agony in the Garden, these newcomers, you are rejecting There is a clear path. It exists in the the Crowning with Thorns, Scourging who sent them, and who sent them but Senate. We don’t know why that door at the Pillar, the Crucifixion. Then it our Lord. is shut to us in the House. We call upon takes us to the Glorious Mysteries. But Today, our Nation has done the oppo- the Speaker to open the same door in all of it is prayerful. I believe in pray- site of how Scripture calls us to re- the House, through discussion, that is er. spond. It has stepped back from the in the Senate. I want to commend, once again, Sen- And so many of our, as I call it, Bible progress that we need to make as a ator DURBIN for his extraordinary lead- constituency—not the National Catho- country. ership. DREAMers know him. lic Conference of Bishops but the evan- ‘‘Today’s actions represent a heart- In 2002, when Luke was 11 years old, gelical community—has been so spec- breaking moment in our history that his family brought him to New York tacular in supporting immigrants to shows the absence of mercy and good- State from South Korea. Luke grew up our country and, especially in this will and a shortsighted vision of the fu- in Palisades Park, New Jersey. Here is case, of DACA. ture. DACA youth are woven into the what Luke said about growing up in This is the statement of the United fabric of our society and our Church, Palisades Park: States Catholic Conference of Bishops: and are, by every social and human ‘‘It didn’t take long for me to adjust ‘‘The president and vice president, measure, American youth. and assimilate because my elementary along with the chairman of the U.S. ‘‘We strongly urge Congress to act school offered bilingual classes in Ko- Conference of Catholic Bishops’’—in and immediately resume work toward rean and English. This is the kind of this case, meaning the president of the a legislative solution. We pledge our America I have known and experi- organization—‘‘along with the chair- support to work on finding an expedi- enced—not just mundanely accepting man of the U.S. Conference of Catholic tious means of protection for DACA diversity, but going above and beyond Bishops have issued a statement de- youth.’’ to serve the unique needs of a diverse nouncing the administration’s termi- The bishops go on to say: ‘‘As people community.’’ nation of the Deferred Action for Child- of faith, we say to DACA youth, regard- From an early age, Luke had a pas- hood Arrivals program after 6 months. less of your immigration status, you sion for science. He was accepted into a ‘‘The following statement from the are children of God and welcome in the math and sciences magnet high school USCCB’’—that is, the United States Catholic Church. The Catholic Church called Bergen County Academies, Catholic Conference of Bishops— supports you and will advocate for which was ranked by Newsweek as one ‘‘President Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo you.’’ of the top five public high schools in of Galveston-Houston, along with That is such a beautiful statement. the country. At Bergen County Acad- USCCB Vice President Archbishop Jose As I noted earlier, tomorrow is the emies, Luke won several awards at re- H. Gomez of Los Angeles; Bishop Joe S. National Prayer Breakfast, and many gional science fairs. He also volun- Vasquez of Austin, chairman, Com- people who will be gathered there are teered as an emergency medical techni- mittee on Migration; and Bishop Jo- among those who have been so sup- cian in the local ambulance corps. seph J. Tyson of Yakima, chairman of portive of our DREAMers. We thank In 2013, Luke graduated—are you the Subcommittee on Pastoral Care, them for their leadership and their ready?—summa cum laude with a bach- Migrants, Refugees, and Travelers says courage. I mentioned some earlier. I elor’s of science in chemistry and re- the ‘cancellation of the DACA program don’t know if these people will be there ceived an award for the highest grade is reprehensible.’ tomorrow, but certainly members of point average of any chemistry major. ‘‘Over 780,000 youth received protec- their church. As I mentioned, Dr. Sam b 1245 tion from the DACA program since its Rodriguez, Reverend Sam Rodriguez This brilliant young man is currently inception by the Department of Home- has spoken out as a leader in the evan- a Ph.D. graduate in chemistry at the land Security in 2012. DACA provided gelical community. University of Chicago. He also works as no legal status or government benefits So, hopefully, tomorrow, as they a researcher at the university. In his but did provide recipients with tem- pray and come together, they will be spare time—in his spare time, how does porary employment authorization to speaking about what we see from the he have spare time—but in his spare work in the United States and a re- pulpit, from the bishops, from the time, he also works as a researcher. He prieve from deportation.’’ evangelical community. If you believe volunteers for the Chicago Korean A quote by the Bishops: ‘‘ ‘The can- that we are all God’s creation, as I do, American Resource and Cultural Cen- cellation of the DACA program is rep- as people of faith do—and I do believe ter, an organization that provides serv- rehensible. It causes unnecessary fear faith is a gift that everyone doesn’t ices to disadvantaged members of the for DACA youth and their families. have. community. Good for you, Luke. These youth entered the United States So you may not have that same per- Consider this: without legal status, as minors and often know America as spective, but if you do believe—and I Luke’s talents would have been squan- their only home. The Catholic Church believe that everyone gathered there dered. But now, thanks to DACA, when has long watched with pride and admi- tomorrow will believe—and many peo- we had DACA, Luke was on the road ration as DACA youth live out their ple across our country subscribe to ‘‘In toward making his childhood passion daily lives with hope and a determina- God We Trust,’’ then you must sub- into a promising career as a scientist. tion to flourish and contribute to soci- scribe to what the Bible tells us. To Luke has written: ‘‘DACA did much ety: continuing to work and provide for minister to the needs of God’s creation more than shielding me from deporta- their families, continuing to serve in is an act of worship; to ignore those tion and changing my immediate cir- the military, and continuing to receive needs is to dishonor the God who made cumstances; it gave me a new faith and an education. Now, after months of us, dishonor the God who made us, re- brought out a new me to reject fear anxiety and fear about their futures, flected in the Gospel of Matthew that I and continue worthwhile pursuits. these brave young people face deporta- referenced earlier. DACA has been tremendously empow- tion. This decision is unacceptable and So when we are thinking about this ering. Wherever I find myself in the fu- does not reflect who we are as Ameri- subject, we also have to recognize the ture, I hope to mentor, encourage, and cans.’ ’’ diversity in our DREAMer population. ultimately empower others.’’

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:53 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.042 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H930 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 Luke and other DREAMers have so Latthivongskorn. His parents brought Here is how she explains it: ‘‘It com- much to contribute to our country. Jirayut to the United States from pletely breaks my heart to see thou- Do we need more talented scientists Thailand when he was 9 years old. sands of children die of treatable dis- like Luke Hwang in America? Of course New—we will call him New. New grew eases due to inadequate basic we do. Will America be stronger if we up in San Francisco. New said: ‘‘I healthcare facilities, and I want to deport Luke Hwang or if he stays here forced myself to read mystery novels, have the skills and ability to change to contribute his talents to America’s dictionary in hand, in order to expand that.’’ future? The answer should be obvious. I my vocabulary, one word at a time. I In January 2012, Aaima graduated thank Luke. mispronounced words, even in the face from Rutgers University magna cum Her parents brought her to the of ridicule, until I mastered the laude, Mr. Speaker, with a major in United States from the Philippines English language.’’ psychology. She was on the dean’s list when she was 5 years old. Mithi grew New became an excellent student and six times and has a grade point average up in California. She was an excellent dreamed about becoming a doctor. of 3.75 out of 4. She was a research as- student who dreamed of becoming a Throughout high school, New worked sistant at Rutgers Department of Psy- doctor. In high school, Mithi was on 30 hours a week at his family’s Thai chology and an intern with the local the principal’s honor roll and was an restaurant. Here is what he said about cardiology practice. Aaima took the AP scholar. She received the Golden the experience: ‘‘I spent most of my medical college admission test, the State Seal Merit Diploma and is a Gov- time at the restaurant working as a MCAT, and scored in the 90th per- ernor’s Scholar Award recipient. Mithi waiter, cashier, and chef, scrubbing toi- centile—better than 90 percent of those was admitted to the University of Cali- lets, washing dishes, and mopping who took the test. fornia, Los Angeles, one of the Nation’s floors. It taught me to have faith, work Shortly after she graduated, Presi- top universities. Congresswoman hard, and persevere.’’ dent Obama announced the DACA pro- WATERS would attest to that. UCLA is New’s hard work paid off. He grad- gram. Because of DACA, Aaima is now one of the Nation’s top universities. We uated as a salutatorian of his high a medical student at Loyola University all are proud of the UC system. school class with a 4.3 grade point aver- pursuing her dream of becoming a phy- At UCLA, Mithi volunteers as a re- age. New was admitted to the Univer- sician. After she graduates, she will search assistant in lab studies of in- sity of California, Berkeley, one of the work in a medically underserved area fants at high risk of developing autism. top schools in California—in the Na- of Illinois. That was her field. She also volunteers tion. He won a scholarship that would Here is what Aaima said about the as a crisis counselor for UCLA Peer have covered most of his tuition, but DACA impact on her: ‘‘I went from Helpline advising students who are vic- he was unable to accept it because of feeling hopeless and full of uncertainty tims of rape, child abuse, and sub- his immigration status. regarding my future to feeling con- stance abuse. Mithi eventually became Despite the setback, New persevered. fident and optimistic that I will one a trainer for new counselors. In May, 2012, he graduated with honors day get the opportunity to help my Mithi also volunteers as a mentor with a 3.7 grade point average with a community and people in other pov- and tutor for at-risk middle school major in molecular and cellular biol- erty-stricken areas.’’ children in Los Angeles. She graduated ogy. But if the House Republicans have from UCLA with a degree in psy- Just 1 month after he graduated, their way, Aaima won’t be able to at- chology. But her options were limited, President Obama established the DACA tend medical school and become a doc- Mr. Speaker, because of her immigra- program. As a result of DACA, New was tor. Instead, she will be deported back tion status. She was unable to pursue able to pursue his dream of becoming a to Pakistan, a country she hasn’t lived her dream of becoming a doctor. doctor. That fall, New began medical in since she was a toddler. Then, in 2012, President Obama estab- school at the University of California, I wouldn’t attribute it to the Repub- lished the DACA program, and Mithi’s San Francisco, a very difficult school licans. I think that plenty of Repub- world changed. Mithi began working as to get into. During his spare time, he licans are on board to help our a research assistant at the UCLA volunteers at the homeless clinic that DREAMers. That is what I am hopeful School of Medicine, and she applied to is run by the students of the University about, just that we need to be given attend medical school. of California, San Francisco. In his the chance to have a respectful vote on During her spare time, Mithi con- spare time. all sides of the issue which we have bi- tinues to volunteer with the Autism New has cofounded Pre-Health partisan Democrats’ strong support, Research Lab where she started her re- Dreamers, a national network of more but strong Republican support as well. search career 7 years ago. She also than 400 DREAMers who are pursuing Give us a vote, Mr. Speaker. Give us serves as a peer mentor to 10 under- careers in healthcare. New and other a chance. Treat this House with the graduate students at UCLA. DREAMers like him have so much to dignity it deserves so that we can rep- Mithi wrote to Congress these words: contribute to our country. Will Amer- resent the people and the wishes of our ‘‘Please, please listen to our stories. ica be a stronger country if we deport country. This is my home, and the only country New and others like him? Will we be a Will America be stronger if we deport I know. DACA gives us greater oppor- better country if we tear apart Amer- Aaima? Of course not. tunities to give back to the country we ican families? Of course not. We all Today, I want to tell you about our love.’’ agree on that. Al Okere. Al was born in Nigeria. In Listen to that sentence again, Mr. Aaima Sayed was brought to the 1990, Al’s father was killed by the Nige- Speaker. Mithi wrote: ‘‘DACA gives us United States from Pakistan when she rian police after he wrote a newspaper greater opportunities to give back to was only 3 years old. She grew up in column criticizing the Nigerian Gov- the country we love.’’ Chicago like a typical American kid. ernment. The killing of Al’s father was That is what the DREAMers are Aaima says: ‘‘I have no memories but documented in the State Department’s about. Their dream is to give back to those of living in the United States. I annual Human Rights Reports. In 1995, America. They have benefited from our am an American in every way, except Al’s mother fled Nigeria and brought country. They want to give back; and on paper.’’ him to the United States. He was only the courage, optimism, and fortitude Aaima was an outstanding student. 5 years old at the time. that they have is really a blessing. She graduated in the top 10 percent of Al’s mother applied for asylum, but Mithi and other DREAMers like her her high school class where she was her application was denied, and she was have so much to contribute. Will Amer- secretary of the Spanish club—mind deported in 2005, when Al was 15. Now, ica be stronger if we deport Mithi and you, she is from Pakistan. She was sec- mind you, her husband had been assas- others like her? Will we be a better retary of the Spanish club, secretary of sinated for articles that he had written country if we tear apart American fam- the math team, and a member of the criticizing the Nigerian Government, a ilies? Of course not. National Honor Society of High School well-founded fear of persecution or This is going to be a hard name for Scholars. Aaima’s dream was to be- danger in Nigeria, yet her application me to pronounce. It is Jirayut New come a physician. was denied in 2005. Al was 15.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:49 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.044 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H931 Al graduated from Rogers High the level of education I have attained United States from Bangladesh. School near Tacoma, Washington. He thus far. I’m confident that my edu- Minhaz was only 4 years old at the attended Central Washington Univer- cation will serve me well enough to time, and has overcome great obstacles sity where he was an honors student make a difference in people’s lives. to complete his education. In 2009, he with a 3.5 grade point average. He was There is nothing I would like more graduated from the University of Cali- an active volunteer in his community. than to give back to the community fornia, Riverside with a bachelor’s de- Here is what Al said about his goals that has been so good to me.’’ gree in neuroscience. for the future, and I quote Al very Novi grew up in this country. We Here is what he said about his proudly: ‘‘I have been in accelerated have already invested in Novi, and he dreams for the future: academic programs most of my edu- has obtained a first-class education in ‘‘My dream is to make several con- cational life and hope to be a medical Illinois. He has great potential to con- tributions to science, and become a doctor some day to contribute to the tribute to our society. Will America be physician’s assistant as a career, and well-being of my fellow humans. I hope a stronger nation if Novi is deported? eventually a teacher as well. I have to continue to emulate and walk in the Of course not. He has overcome the great aspirations, but I do not dream of great academic shoes of my late father, odds to achieve great success. He would big houses or tons of cars. I want nor- who earned a Ph.D. degree from a uni- make America a strong country. mality, stability, and liberty.’’ versity in Paris, France. My family and Again, Novi’s story comes to us when Today, Minhaz lives in Palo Alto, community support has been enor- he came from India as a child. There is California, with his wife, who is an mous, and it gives me the zeal to work a large number of Asian-Pacific Amer- American citizen. Minhaz spoke about hard in my studies, to be able to lend ican Dreamers. what it would mean for him if the a hand to others in need, and to realize Yaniv Steltzer was brought to the Dream Act were to become law. Here is a bright future!’’ United States by his parents from what he said: ‘‘Imagine the countless numbers of Al grew up in this country. We have Israel when he was just 3 years old, a individuals ready to contribute to our already invested in Al, who has re- DREAMer from Israel. He grew up in society as law-abiding, successful indi- ceived his entire education from kin- this country like any other American viduals who live life with a sense of dergarten to college in the United child. In 2010, he graduated from Rich- strength and morality. Abraham Lin- States. He has great potential to con- ard Stockton College in New Jersey coln once said, ‘I have always found tribute to our society. He does not re- with a bachelor’s degree in hospitality that mercy bears richer fruits than member anything about Nigeria and and tourism management. strict justice,’ and this is more true cannot speak any of Nigeria’s native b 1300 now than ever. I have a great amount languages. of hope, optimism, and belief in this Here is what Al said about the possi- In college, he was the chair of the country and that one day we will see bility of being deported: ‘‘I do not re- Jewish Student Union/Hillel Club and was an active volunteer with several the Dream Act enacted into law.’’ member anything about my mother’s This is his statement, Minhaz Khan, country of Nigeria. I cannot even speak other student groups. Yaniv’s dream is to open a res- from Bangladesh. the language. Every experience I have Another child brought here from taurant. He wrote a letter, which said: had in life that I can remember have India, as was an earlier DREAMer, been in the United States of America. I fell in love with cooking in high school Mandeep Chahal. Mandeep was brought Everyone I know and care about are all when I took a home-economics class, and I to the United States from India 14 knew this is what I wanted to do for the rest here, except for my mother, who was years ago, when she was only 6 years sadly removed and remains in hiding in of my life. I would love to give back to America by opening my own restaurant, cre- old. A beautiful little child. fear of her life.’’ ating jobs, contributing to the economy, and Mandeep has been an academic all- Would America be stronger if Al becoming a citizen in the country I love. star. She was an honors pre-med stu- Okere were deported? Of course not. Al Unfortunately, under our immigra- dent at the University of California, is not an isolated example. There are tion laws, Yaniv cannot become a cit- Davis, where she majored in neurology, literally thousands of others, hundreds izen. His father was born in the United physiology, and behavior. of thousands of others like him around Mandeep is also dedicated to public States. But Yaniv was born in Israel, so the country. I thank Al for being so service. In high school, she helped to he is not an American citizen. Yaniv’s generous in sharing his story. found One Dollar for Life, a national father applied for Yaniv to become a I want to tell you about Novi Roy. poverty relief organization. She was citizen, but because the process took so Novi Roy grew up in the State of Illi- voted the member of her class ‘‘Most long, Yaniv is no longer eligible. nois. Novi was brought to the United likely to Save the World. Imagine, Under our immigration laws, once States from India as a child. He at- most likely to save the world. At her Yaniv turned 21, his father could not tended Evanston Township High college, Mandeep is the co-president of petition for Yaniv to become a citizen. School. This is a story that Senator STAND, an anti-genocide group. So, Yaniv, who has lived his whole DURBIN provided. Mandeep has so much to offer to our He attended Evanston Township High life in this country since he was 3, country. She wrote: ‘‘I . . . consider School where he graduated with a 3.9 since his father is an American citizen, the United States my only home. My grade point average. During high he is an undocumented immigrant. The family, friends, and future are in the school, Novi began volunteering at a only solution for him is the Dream Act. United States, which is where I belong. soup kitchen in Rogers Park in Chi- Here is what Yaniv said about his sit- My dream is to become a pediatrician cago, which he continues to do today. uation: so I can treat the most helpless and in- Novi went to the University of Illi- America is the only country I know. I grew nocent among us. I hope to serve fami- nois at Urbana-Champaign where he up here, all my family and friends are here, lies in low-income communities who graduated with a bachelor’s degree in and everything I know is America. The Dream Act is important to me and also to otherwise are unable to afford medical economics. Novi graduated from the many others like me who are in the same sit- care. I wish to remain in the United University of Illinois with two master’s uation. We have the resources to help this States so that I can continue to make degrees, one in business and one in country greatly, but don’t have that piece of a positive difference and give back to human resources. Novi’s dream is to be paper that allows us to do this. I have high the community that has given me so able to provide affordable healthcare to hope and optimism that Congress will do the much.’’ the less fortunate. right and humane thing, put all political How beautiful. You see the recurring Here is what he said in the letter he issues aside, and pass the Dream Act. theme of the DREAMers: wanting to wrote to DICK DURBIN: ‘‘I love America Yaniv is right. give back to America, appreciative of for all its opportunities, and, like any I ask my colleagues: Would America the opportunities they have received other aspiring student, I want a chance be better off if we deported Yaniv? here—the mentoring, the friendship, to realize the American Dream. I owe The answer is very obvious. the love; wanting to give back. the State of Illinois, its taxpayers, and Eighteen years go, in 1992, Minhaz Dominique Nkata and Tapiwa Nkata. America a huge debt of gratitude for Khan’s parents brought him to the There are two.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:49 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.045 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H932 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 Tapiwa’s and Dominique’s parents, Monji wrote: ‘‘For as long as I can re- had the privilege of going to the same John and Joan Nkata, brought their member, I have had an intense passion church at which she faithfully serves. family to the United States from the for technology. In middle school, that She spends hours tutoring kids and vol- African county of Malawi in 1990. At passion led to spending many nights unteering with the junior high Sunday the time, Tapiwa was 4 and Dominique constructing remote-controlled model school class. It is a joy to watch so was only 11 months old. airplanes and Van de Graaff genera- many children run up to her at church The Nkatas came here legally. They tors. In high school, I fell in love with because of the love they receive when had work permits. John, an ordained computers and the internet, spending they are with her.’’ Christian minister, worked as a hospice my senior year creating an online Would it be a good use of taxpayer counselor. Joan, his wife—their moth- newspaper for my school.’’ dollars to deport Herta? er—worked as an accountant. Monji did not know about his immi- Of course not. The Nkatas filed papers to stay here gration status until he was applying Again, there is so much discussion in permanently. For years, their case was for college. He asked his parents what the United States about the need for stuck in immigration court. Finally, in to say about his status on his college more young people to study what is 2009, John and Joan Nkata were grant- applications. That is when Monji known as STEM—science, technology, ed legal permanent residence. But by learned that he was undocumented. engineering, and math. Of course, we that time, Tapiwa and Dominique were In 2008, Monji graduated from the add the arts in there: STEAM. adults and unable to obtain legal sta- University of North Carolina at Chapel Every year, we issue tens of thou- sands of H–1B visas to bring foreign tus through their parents. That hap- Hill, an outstanding school. Very soon, students here to work in the STEM pens at 21. Monji began to be courted by the tech- fields. Herta is a straight-A student in Here is what Dominique said about nology industry. He was even offered a electrical engineering, a STEM field. being deported to Malawi: ‘‘The loom- job as the lead engineer for a startup in She doesn’t need an H–1B visa. She is a ing fear of having everything I know, Silicon Valley. homegrown talent. including part of my family, here in Monji’s prospects would be limited Herta came to Capitol Hill to speak the United States, while I am removed because of his immigration status. at a briefing on the Dream Act. Here is to the other side of the world, is crip- The Dream Act would give Monji a what she said: ‘‘I’m a typical story. pling.’’ chance to pursue his dream and con- There’s thousands of stories out there Tapiwa said: ‘‘I can’t imagine my life tribute his talent to the country he just like mine. Please support the in Africa. I am an American. I know calls home. Dream Act so students like me don’t this culture and speak this language. I Here is what he has to say: ‘‘I’ve have to leave. We are worth it. This is pledge allegiance to this flag.’’ turned down several great jobs from the country we have come to love.’’ It would be wrong to send these reputable companies because of my Herta is right. She and hundreds of women back to Malawi, a country they status. The Dream Act would let me thousands of others are worth it. don’t even remember. Remember, one take my passion for technology to the Eliphaz Omote is 25 years old, and he of them was 11 months old when she next level by allowing me to move to is from KEITH ELLISON’s district in came. Silicon Valley and pursue my dream as Minnesota. In 2007, Tapiwa graduated summa an internet entrepreneur.’’ Eliphaz was born in Kenya and came cum laude from the University of Cin- So, we have someone like Monji, with to Minnesota at age 11. He didn’t know cinnati with a degree in finance. She his talents, his entrepreneurship, his he was undocumented until he grad- then worked at an accounting firm. passion, and his intellect. What a re- uated from high school. She dreams of becoming a certified source to our country. Imagine the maturity of these kids. public accountant. I keep asking the question: Would They are teenagers, they are babies, Tapiwa explained what America America be better off if we deported they are 11 years old, and all the rest, means to her: ‘‘Quite simply, when you Monji back to Bangladesh, a country and carrying this weight. Growing up is say ‘The American Dream’ all around he left when he was 5 years old? hard enough, right, but carrying this the world, they know what you are Of course not. weight? talking about. People who have never Herta Llusho was brought to the He writes: ‘‘I wanted to go to college been to our shores, eaten our food, or United States from Albania when she and pursue education, but I couldn’t. It even spoken our language have heard was 11. She and her mother settled in was a grueling experience, especially of a prosperous nation that, above all Grosse Pointe, Michigan, a suburb of for me being a highly driven and ambi- else, grants freedom and rights to all Detroit. tious person.’’ people.’’ Herta and her mother came to the After DACA, Eliphaz graduated from Dominique graduated from the Uni- United States legally. Shortly before St. Cloud State University with a de- versity of Cincinnati with a degree in arriving in America, Herta’s mother gree in psychology and management. chemistry and pre-medicine. Remem- filed an application to stay in the He is about to start classes for a mas- ber, her sister graduated summa cum United States. ter’s degree in divinity at Andrews laude with a degree in finance. Herta quickly learned English and University in Berrien Springs, Michi- Dominique graduated with a degree in became an academic star. She grad- gan. chemistry and pre-medicine and began uated from Grosse Pointe High School Eliphaz wants to be a chaplain in the working at University Hospital and the with a 4.05 grade point average. In high United States Senate one day, but he Jewish Hospital in the research depart- school, she was a member of the var- can only do that if the Dream Act ment as a clinical studies assistant. sity track team, won an Advanced passes. The Senate. Maybe the House, Dominique planned to apply to med- Placement Scholar Award, and was a if he were given a chance to, might rise ical school. She said: ‘‘I dream of being member of the National Honor Society. to the level. a doctor and of giving back to a coun- Herta then attended the University The Congressional Black Caucus—I try that has given so much to me.’’ of Detroit Mercy, where she was an mentioned earlier that the chairwoman Would America be better off if we de- honor student and studied to be an of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus— ported Tapiwa and Dominique back to electrical engineer. She had a grade has been very much involved in this Malawi? point average of 3.98 and completed two issue and they gave me these statistics. Of course not. The Dream Act gives internships at engineering companies. There are 5,302 DACA recipients from them a chance. She is from Albania, I remind you. Jamaica, 4,077 recipients from Trinidad Let me introduce you to another Herta has been very involved with and Tobago, and 2,095 DACA recipients DREAMer, Monji Dolon. her community, volunteering at home- from Nigeria, just to name a few. There Monji’s parents brought him to the less shelters, tutoring programs, and are more, as I mentioned, from Africa, United States from Bangladesh in 1991. her church. but this just named the Nigerian ones He was 5 years old. As he grew up in his Listen to what one of her friends said here. I thank them for their work and new home, he immersed himself in the about her: ‘‘I am humbled by Herta’s the effort on activities that have gone study of computers and technology. willingness and desire to serve. I have with this.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:49 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.047 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H933 We have another visitor from Alba- Tolu graduated from high school at them are still young. But they came, nia. Things were tough in Albania a the top of her class. She won a full some of them, as I said, 11 months, 6 while back. Our distinguished col- scholarship to a prestigious university months, babies. league, Mr. ELIOT ENGEL, has been Al- in Virginia. In 2002, she graduated with Minchul came when he was 9. He bania’s best friend from Congress, but a degree in chemical engineering. graduated from high school with a 4.2 he can attest that there was cause to Back in 2011, at a press conference GPA. He graduated from UCLA with a leave at an earlier day. announcing the reintroduction of the degree in microbiology, immunology, Ola Kaso was brought to the United Dream Act, here is what Tolu said: and molecular genetics. With the sup- States by her mother from Albania in ‘‘The dreams of my youth have port from the Korean-American com- 1998, when she was 5 years old. Ola stalled, yes, but my country still needs munity, Minchul was able to graduate went to high school in Warren, Michi- me. So I volunteer full-time to ensure from dental school. He passed the na- gan. She was a valedictorian of her a better future for thousands of others. tional boards and license exam and be- class. She took every advanced place- Passing the Dream Act is critically im- came a dentist. ment class offered by her school. portant to me and to so many others. I Here is what he wrote: ‘‘After spend- Are you ready for this? don’t believe that I am entitled to any- ing the majority of my life here, with She had a 4.4 grade point average. thing more than what this great Na- all my friends and family here, I could Ola was on the varsity cross country tion has taught me: that we all have a not simply pack my things and go to a and tennis teams. She was treasurer of right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of country I barely remember. I am will- the student council and treasurer of happiness.’’ ing to accept whatever punishment is the National Honor Society at her Imagine. Tolu is right. Thousands of deemed fitting for that crime; let me school. She tutors children who are immigrant students in the United just stay and pay for it. . . . I am beg- learning English. Ola was also a mem- States were brought to the United ging for a chance to prove to everyone ber of the homecoming court. States as children. It was not their de- that I am not a waste of a human I don’t have her picture here, but she cision to come to this country, but being, that I am not a criminal set on was lovely. they grew up here, and this is their leaching off taxpayers’ money. Please home. b 1315 give me a chance to serve my commu- The fundamental premise of the nity as a dentist, to be a giver rather Ola was then accepted into the hon- Dream Act is that we should not pun- than a receiver.’’ ors program at the University of Michi- ish children for their parents’ actions. Thank you, Minchul. gan, where she would study premed. This is not the American way. Instead, Senator DURBIN has sent over some Here is what she said about her the Dream Act says to these students: stories, and I am going to read some of dreams for the future: America will always give you a chance. them. ‘‘I aspire to ultimately become a sur- And I—me—say to their parents: Jean-Yannick Diouf: When Yannick gical oncologist, but more importantly, Thank you for bringing these DREAM- was 8, his father, a diplomat from the I intend to work for patients that can- ers to America. We are in your debt for African country of Senegal, brought not afford the astronomical fees ac- the courage it took for you to take the his family to the United States. Unfor- companying lifesaving surgeries, pa- risk physically, politically, and in tunately, Yannick’s parents separated tients that are denied the medical every way to do so. and Yannick’s father returned to Sen- treatment they deserve. My goal is not David Cho was brought to the United egal, leaving Yannick and the rest of to increase my bank account; my goal States from South Korea when he was the family behind. Yannick did not re- is to decrease preventible deaths. I 9. Since then, David has been a model alize it at the time, but when his father wish to remain in this country to make American. He had a 3.9 GPA in high left the United States, Yannick lost his a difference.’’ school. He attended UCLA, where he legal status to live in this country. How beautiful. Thank you, Ola, for obtained a bachelor of arts in inter- Yannick grew up in Montgomery sharing your story. national finance, with a 3.6 GPA. County, Maryland, nearby. In high This takes a great deal of courage for As you can see, David is also the school, Yannick was a member of the these young people to share their sto- leader of the UCLA marching band. National Honor Society. He also volun- ries and the intimacy of the personal There is a picture of him, but the teered weekly at a homeless shelter challenges they face, so we thank them RECORD will not reflect that, the leader and organized soccer tournaments for 3 for their generosity of spirit as well as of the UCLA marching band. years to raise money for the Red Cross their courage. David then obtained a master’s de- for earthquake relief in Haiti. Steve Li’s parents brought him to gree in public policy, with a GPA of 3.9, Mind you, he is from Senegal, and he the United States when he was 11. He and was the UCLA commencement is raising money for earthquake relief studied at City College of San Fran- speaker. in Haiti. God bless him. cisco, where he majored in nursing and He worked as a business technology After high school, he continued his was a leader in student government. analyst at Deloitte Consulting, where education. He earned an associate de- Here is what Steve said: ‘‘My dream he earned the highest possible perform- gree in business from Montgomery Col- is to become a registered nurse at San ance rating, representing performance lege, where he was on the dean’s list. Francisco General and to be a public in the top 5 percent of all analysts. He then transferred to University of health advocate. I want to be able to Today, David works in business and Maryland, College Park, where he is give back to my community by raising technology, consulting as a sales force working on a bachelor’s degree in busi- awareness about preventive care and scrum master and project manager. ness management. Yannick runs the other healthcare issues. I’m well on my Thank you, David, for your contribu- Achievers Mentoring Program, an way to achieving my dream. By passing tion to our country. after-school program that advises mid- the Dream Act, I will be able to Minchul Suk: Minchul was brought dle school and high school students on achieve these goals and contribute to to the United States from South Korea how to get into college and be success- the growing healthcare industry.’’ by his parents in 1991 when he was 9. ful—very valuable, mentoring. He is Could we use more nurses in this I just want to make this point, Mr. also a volunteer for United We Dream, country? We sure could. In fact, the Speaker. When I mentioned about Sen- the largest organization of undocu- United States imports thousands of ator DURBIN, he introduced the Dream mented students in the country. foreign nurses every year because we Act in 2001, it is 17 years later, so some May I pause for a moment to com- have such a large nursing shortage. of these children have grown up. But mend United We Dream. They have So why would we consider sending some of them whom we are addressing been so spectacular, so dignified, so Steve Li back? came to the United States in the nine- prestigious in how they have protected Tolu Olumni: Tolu was brought to ties, and so 17 years later we still the DREAMers’ case and enabled the United States from Nigeria when haven’t been able to take care of the DREAMers to present their own case. she was a child. As a child, Tolu children? They were very little chil- Yannick was a leader in the cam- dreamed of becoming an engineer. dren when they came, and some of paign to pass the Maryland Dream Act,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:49 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.049 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H934 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 which allows Maryland residents who graduate studies and is working full- So I think there is just a misunder- are undocumented to pay instate tui- time waiting for his chance to serve standing here about what President tion. Keep in mind, Yannick is undocu- the country he loves. Trump did in September. It was very mented, so he does not qualify for any Harminder wrote: ‘‘All I want to do is harsh. As the National Catholic Con- official aid from the Federal Govern- serve. I want to do my part to give ference of Bishops said, it was rep- ment. Here is what he wrote: back to this country because it allowed rehensible. ‘‘DACA means dignity. More than me to serve.’’ I don’t think that the administration making money, having a job gives us Without DACA, Harminder and hun- understood the impact it had on peo- dignity and self-respect. I want to work dreds of other immigrants with skills ple’s lives. I think they thought they for what I have. I don’t look to anyone that are vital to the national interest were giving a 6-month reprieve, but for pity. People should judge me based would be kicked out of the Army. They what they were doing was giving 6 on what I do and what I stand for, not want nothing more than to serve, and months of uncertainty and removal of based on status. I want to be given a they are willing to die for the country protections for these people. chance to prove that not only am I a they call home. And you have heard some of the functioning member of society, I am Thank you, Harminder. statements that have been made in the here to serve and share my talents Representative ESTY of Connecticut last day or so about mischaracterizing with those in my community.’’ sent us this story about Daisy Rivera. why some people have lost protections. Yannick was one of six DREAMers Her story is in Daisy’s own words: I will reiterate that this all came fast. who met President Obama in the Oval ‘‘I came to the United States when I Many of the people who needed to sign Office. Here is what President Obama was 2 months old.’’ up right away found it difficult to ac- said after that meeting: ‘‘I don’t think How precious. cess the $495 immediately. Most people there’s anybody in America who’s had ‘‘The day I entered high school, my in our country could not have access to a chance to talk to these six young parents broke the sad news to me that $495 in the spur of the moment, espe- people . . . who wouldn’t find it in I was undocumented. Yes, I did grow up cially young people. So, anyway, we their heart to say these kids are Amer- not knowing my true status, and at have always treated this with respect. icans just like us, and they belong that very moment I felt I didn’t know I would like to talk now about Julia here, and we want to do right by who exactly I was anymore. It made it Verzbickis: them.’’ very difficult to try and understand ‘‘When I was 9, my family and I President Obama is right. Yannick when all my siblings were born here in moved to the United States to find and other DREAMers have so much to the U.S. and were given opportunities some stability that wasn’t present in contribute to our country. that I wasn’t able to have. When I our home country. We always had The question again: Would America graduated high school in 2012, I found plans to make the move permanent, be a stronger country if we deport out that President Obama took action and the seemingly endless paperwork Yannick and others like him? Of course to grant undocumented people like me process began nearly immediately. not. the DACA. However, we didn’t know what we were Another DREAMer from India, this is ‘‘Ever since then, I have been able to in for. The lawyer we had turned out to Harminder Saini. When Harminder was feel free, support my daughter, my par- be fraudulent, and, as a result, my par- 6 years old, his family moved to the ents, and younger siblings still work- ents, my sisters, and I lost our status United States from India. He grew up ing on their dreams. I now have a beau- in the country. It was the summer be- in Queens in New York City. He was a tiful job with a Head Start program for fore my first year of high school. typical American kid, playing sports youth development and healthy living. ‘‘The future remained unclear, but I and going to the park every day. This is a job that not only I enjoy, but made some choices. I chose to keep my Harminder’s dream was to serve his my 3-year-old daughter attends as well. grades up in school. I chose to give my- country as a soldier in the United DACA has been more than a blessing self the opportunity at a future. I States Army. In his words, he simply and a relief for me and my friends and worked hard. I graduated 28th in a wanted to give back. family. class of 620. I had a 3.6’’ GPA. ‘‘I got Harminder was a born leader, and in ‘‘But now that it has been put in into Rutgers early admission. high school he was active in student jeopardy, I can’t even go to sleep at ‘‘The week after my 21st birthday, I government and ultimately was elected night. I look at my daughter thinking: got notice that my DACA application class president. What can I do so I don’t end up like had been approved. Within 12 hours, I He first learned that he did not have other families that have been separated had applied for a Social Security card, legal immigration status when he was and destroyed? What can I do to sup- and, within a week, I’d filled out doz- in high school and was unable to apply port my child? How do I explain to my ens of job applications. I got a license for a driver’s license, Mr. Speaker. friends and family that my future has for the first time ever. Harminder is now a student at Hunter been taken away, that I am not like ‘‘In November 2014, I got into Teach College at the City University of New them? For America. I was placed in San Anto- York, working toward his bachelor’s ‘‘This might be another challenge for nio, 1,800 miles away from New Jer- degree in history. And thanks to me as an undocumented, but I know sey.’’ DACA, he is on his way to fulfilling his that this is just the start of my new be- dream. Last year, he enlisted in the ginning that will label me a warrior be- b 1330 Army through the Military Accessions cause I will not sit here and have my ‘‘I graduated college the following Vital to the National Interest program, future taken. I will not stand by the May, cum laude, with a double major known as MAVNI. corners of the streets to ask for any- in English and journalism. The MAVNI program allows immi- thing. I will fight and raise my voice ‘‘In August 2015, I started teaching. I grants with critical skills vital to the alone or with the other 800,000 DREAM- also met the man that would become national interest to enlist in the ers, and we will obtain what we de- the love of my life. I had a new life in Armed Forces. More than 800 DACA re- serve, and we won’t give up.’’ a new State, and I was all by myself for cipients with these critical skills have That story comes from Representa- the first time ever, and I couldn’t be joined the military through MAVNI. tive ESTY. I think it is important to more excited. Some Trump administration officials note here that some of these people ‘‘I’ve been teaching middle school have claimed that DACA recipients are are, again, working; they are giving since then, and I love it. My kids are taking jobs away from Americans, but back to the community. DACA made a amazing. They drive me nuts on any Harminder and hundreds of other big difference in their existence. For given day, but I love them. DREAMers have skills that our mili- some of them, they found out that they ‘‘DACA gave me my independence tary couldn’t find anywhere else. were undocumented at a critical point back. It’s the single reason I am able to Harminder, along with many other in their own development, and it foist- teach, and live on my own, and pay for DREAMers, is now waiting to ship to ed uncertainty upon them, which my car, and feel like I belong in the basic training. He continues his under- DACA relieved. country I have lived in for 15 years.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:49 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.051 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H935 ‘‘Knowing that I could lose all the uncertainty that led to my interest in My parents had done everything they freedom I’ve gained is a paralyzing American politics. I wanted to under- could. They paid the expensive lawyer fear. I’ve worked so hard, and my life stand why I was not eligible to apply fees, opened a small business, and had was just coming together, and now it for certain schools, scholarships, and secured and renewed work visas might fall apart again. I hope that financial aid despite being a top stu- throughout our time here. There was doesn’t happen, but if I’ve learned any- dent at my high school. no explanation as to why U.S. Citizen- thing these last 15 years, it’s to hope ‘‘There seemed to be something fun- ship and Immigration Services would for the best and prepare for the worst.’’ damentally unfair about a system that deny legal immigrants with a business, That is Julia’s story. excluded students like me. However a home, savings accounts, and a decade This is from Zuleyma Garcia. frustrating my situation was, I was for- in the country, a chance at becoming ‘‘Hi, my story started 22 years ago tunate to live in New York, where resi- permanent residents. when I was only 3 years old. My par- dency laws made the possibility of at- ‘‘With the threat of being deported ents, both from Mexico, had crossed tending college a reality. looming over my head, I did everything over, summer of 1994, through the hot ‘‘At Baruch College, I studied polit- I could to help reelect President and unforgiving desert. I have always ical science. I attended school full time Obama. I joined OFA in Gainesville, admired my parents’ drive and courage and, by sophomore year, had the oppor- Florida, and spent countless nights to go after a better life. I couldn’t tunity to intern at Senator KIRSTEN with volunteers and staffers.’’ imagine leaving my country, U.S., for GILLIBRAND’s office at the Veterans’ ‘‘So although I am scared of what one I know nothing about. Which is Affairs casework department. I knew comes next, if we lose DACA, if we’re why I’m so thankful for DACA. then that I wanted to pursue public no longer able to continue working in ‘‘My mom always showed me any- service, but was well aware of the legal the U.S., I am empowered by an impor- thing is possible by working hard for hurdles ahead of me due to my undocu- tant lesson President Obama taught us: it. I never really noticed or felt like I mented status. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. wasn’t American. ‘‘I was unsure what life after gradua- We are the change that we seek. In this So my freshman year, after passing tion would be like without authoriza- time of uncertainty, we must carry my driver’s ed, I was very quickly dis- tion to work. Thankfully, the DACA that lesson and fight so that all people, illusioned by my mother, who ex- program was announced a few semes- including DREAMers, can continue plained we were here illegally and ters before my graduation. Although it working towards the American could not get a driver’s permit. I broke was still difficult to find the right job, Dream.’’ down crying because I felt like my my persistence eventually led me to I know that Representative JAYAPAL world crumbled. So many thoughts the New York Legal Assistance Group. is on the floor, and I wish that she went through my mind, mainly fear at I now work as a paralegal in the Vet- could deliver it herself, but the rules do the moment, but I eventually gripped erans Assistance Project at NYLAG. I not allow. have the opportunity to work with a myself together. With the passing PARLIAMENTARY INQUIRY years, frustration added to the list of team that is committed to helping the Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, par- emotions, when I couldn’t attend class low-income veteran population in NYC liamentary inquiry. trips to other States, apply for scholar- get access to the benefits they earned The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. ships, or even just special programs at through their service.’’ SIMPSON). The gentlewoman will state A DACA—a DREAMer—helping our colleges, while I was still in high her parliamentary inquiry. veterans. school, because of the lack of a Social Ms. PELOSI. Are we going to be able ‘‘I had hoped to attend law school to to have Special Orders for our col- Security number and an ID. further advance my career in public in- ‘‘Once I graduated and it was time to leagues at the end of the session? terest law, but given the current uncer- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- face the real world, things hit the fan. tainty of what will happen with DACA, I felt like the doors closed in on me. I tlewoman may consult with leadership it’s become increasingly difficult to on matters of scheduling. had nice internships lined up. I had plan for the future. While DACA is not managed to get into a special program Ms. PELOSI. Okay. I didn’t know if a the solution to the current state of im- decision had been made about that yet. at my college, which I wasn’t able to migration affairs, it has given me and do because of my status. A year into Then I will continue to read. over 700,000 other DREAMers the path Amy Kele. This is from Representa- working a minimum wage job and at- to achieving the American Dream.’’ tive JAYAPAL, a leader on the immigra- tending college for a preschool teacher, We thank Isabelle for sharing her tion issues, as you probably all know, I now felt like I had been torn apart, story. an immigrant herself to our country, felt like no matter how hard I worked, This is from Bruna. and now a Member of Congress. I am so I would never accomplish my goals be- ‘‘There are a few minutes left of proud of her. cause of this barrier. So I dropped out President Obama’s Presidency and a Amy Kele and her family moved from Fiji of college and just focused on working, feeling of dread fills me. Not only be- to settle in Everett, Washington, staying on got a second job, and moved out of my cause I’m saying goodbye to a Presi- their father’s student visa. Things change mom’s home. Soon after, I met my hus- dent that has meant so much to me when Amy’s parents left the U.S. to attend a band of 5 years now, which is an Amer- and thousands of DREAMers, but be- wedding in Fiji. ican citizen; we have a 5-year-old child. cause within a few minutes the new ‘‘They were only planning to stay for 2 ‘‘DACA allowed me to feel like a President may choose to remove weeks, but then my mom’s visa got denied,’’ human again and to live without fear. DACA—taking away a sense of security said Amy, the oldest of four children. Amy is I’m not a bad person. I have a clean now 19, but the last time she saw her parents we’ve had these past years. was when she was just 11 years old. criminal record and am a good member ‘‘In 2012, President Obama presented How sad. of society, and, like me, there’s so DACA, giving me and my sister an- many. This is why I call for an exten- other chance at life. Before then, we When Amy’s parents left for Fiji, Amy’s grandmother came from California to baby- sion of the Deferred Action for Child- did truly feel like we were going to lose sit. When they weren’t able to reenter the hood Arrivals.’’ everything: friends and family we made country, she picked up her life and moved to Again, the uncertainty, the anxiety, in this country, the home we built, and Everett to care for her grandchildren. ‘‘She’s that is injected into people’s lives. I the future we envisioned. the heart of this whole family. She’s kept us thank them for sharing these deep con- ‘‘Born in Brazil, but raised in Tampa, together this whole time. I don’t know where cerns. Florida, my parents always pushed us we’d be right now, maybe back in Fiji or in We are now hearing from Isabelle to excel in school, in leadership posi- a foster home. I’m really thankful for her in Muhlbauer. tions, and in sports. We planned to go our lives,’’ said Kele. ‘‘By junior year of high school, I Though Amy’s grandmother has been liv- to college, travel the world, volunteer, ing in the U.S. for almost 20 years, she is spoke English fluently and attended all and to make a difference in a country also undocumented. ‘‘Because she’s also un- honors classes, but, unlike most 15 that had generously welcomed us. documented, she can’t get benefits like So- year olds, my future was uncertain due ‘‘After a third failed attempt at se- cial Security and things like that. It kind of to my immigration status. It was this curing a green card, we had given up. breaks my heart whenever I think about it.’’

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:49 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.053 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H936 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 With the exception of Amy’s younger sis- A beautiful story from Lisia, and, ‘‘Since that day, I have taken every ter, who was born in the United States, the again, there is nothing lazy about this opportunity to grow, learn, and con- Kele children have all enrolled in DACA. family, or any of these families, as to tribute back to my community. In 2013, Amy is now a nursing student and healthcare worker for the elderly. As the how they want to achieve legal status DACA allowed me to re-enroll in Flor- oldest sibling, she takes pride in being able in our country. The only violation in ida State University and pursue a mas- to help her grandmother support their fam- hundreds of thousands of these cases is ter’s degree in public administration. ily. She provides for her three siblings, is an a status, either a lapse, in this case, or By 2014, I was in the middle of working active member of her church, and is looked a violation, but nothing in terms of a job in Tallahassee, Florida, studying to as a leader at the University of Wash- breaking the law in any other way. for my master’s classes, and advo- ington. Amy is shy, full of heart, and cares cating at the Florida Legislature for a deeply about her family and community. b 1345 bill that would allow undocumented Without the support of DACA, Amy fears From California, Congressman JIMMY never being able to complete her nursing de- students to obtain instate tuition at PANETTA, a member of our freshman gree. Without a work permit, the livelihood State colleges and universities. In a class, tells us the story of Adriana of their family is at stake. The risk of depor- rare display of bipartisanship, the bill from Salinas. I thank JIMMY for the tation means she could be separated from passed and was signed into law by Flor- work he tried to do with the group that her family, possibly leaving her youngest sis- ida Republican Governor Rick Scott. he works with in a bipartisan way to ter in foster care. ‘‘I graduated with my master’s in advance the cause of the DREAMers. What? This is a very sad and chal- 2015 full of hope and energy that I lenging situation. So many families af- Adriana tells this story: ‘‘At the age of 7, I migrated to the place that I now would be able to put my education to fected that just being able to vote on good use. With degrees in hand, I was the floor could correct. It is about the call home. I came with the dream of pursuing an education and becoming able to obtain a job as a digital immi- children. gration advocate, putting my years of Mr. Speaker, I thank Congresswoman someone important, someone who would give back to the community. I experience and passion to good use. Si- JAYAPAL for sharing that story with us. multaneously, and thanks to the new Whip HOYER wanted to tell this story am working to achieve my dream. To instate tuition law in Florida, I was on the floor himself, and other stories my community, I am a student, I am a able to help both of my younger broth- as well, but the rules at the moment do peer, I am a leader. To the Trump ad- ers enroll at Miami Dade College and not allow him. We are uncertain as to ministration, I am a criminal. I stood Florida International University. They whether there will be an opportunity in the shadows for a very long time, are currently pursuing degrees to work for Special Orders where Members can and education was always my outlet. I in business and communications, re- speak afterward. grew to be the person I am today be- Lisia Vala, Indian American, her per- cause of my mother, a cook, who told spectively.’’ I just want to say that I have spoken sonal story. me that education was the most impor- at the graduation at Miami Dade Col- Mr. Speaker, I thank Whip HOYER for tant thing I could earn. lege and spoken also at Florida Inter- his leadership. Whip HOYER has been so ‘‘People tell me to go back to my much a champion on this issue, fight- country, but people do not realize that national University, two magnificent ing so hard in every possible venue, this is my country. I work, I pay taxes, schools. And what is beautiful about under any auspices, there every step of I go to school, I stand for the national them is to see the beautiful diversity the way. He submits this story. anthem, and I know the Pledge of Alle- in the large number of students that they teach, and the many cases of first My family moved from Canada to San An- giance. This country has seen me grow, tonio in 1996 when I was 6. and this country has contributed to my children to attend college, but with all the optimism, dignity, and hope that Mr. Speaker, this is a DREAMer from dreams. I aspire to attend law school. you could ever imagine. They are two Canada. DACA has helped me achieve my dreams. I was able to get a Social Secu- great institutions. We had a visa, and my parents worked to I actually spoke at the commence- change our immigration status for as long as rity card. I was allowed to apply for a I can remember. We spent decades playing by driver’s license. DACA allowed me to ment address one year, the year before the rules. But one time our immigration at- be like any other person my age. President Bush spoke there. I have said torney filed our paperwork late, and another ‘‘People have asked me what would I earlier, President Bush was a wonder- time our sponsor sold his business, forcing us do without DACA. To be honest, I have ful President dedicated to recognizing to restart the entire application process. faith in my elected officials. I do not how important immigration was to our For more than 20 years, we attempted to want everything handed to me, nor do country and how we should value our navigate the broken immigration system, an immigrants and treat them with re- emotionally exhausting and financially I believe that I deserve everything. draining process. Suffice it to say that I am What I do ask for is the ability to be spect when we have the debate on these not undocumented for lack of trying. like any other 25-year-old in this coun- issues. Growing up in Texas, I always felt like an try. I don’t want the termination of Juan goes on to say: ‘‘There are a lot American because, in every possible way, I DACA to be the termination of my of misconceptions regarding the DACA was. I went to elementary, middle, and high dreams.’’ program, but perhaps the biggest one is school in San Antonio, enrolling in Girl Thank you, Adriana. Thank you, that beneficiaries of the program are Scouts, and spending my summers playing JIMMY PANETTA, for submitting that asking for a free pass. DACA does not league basketball. I volunteered at the local story. grant citizenship. Rather, it allows in- food bank, took far too many AP classes, and Juan Escalante tells us that he was worked behind the cash register at the dividuals like myself, who have bene- neighborhood grocery store. working at an unpaid internship in 2012 fitted from State-funded investments In 2008, I left for college. Four years later, when he caught word of the Deferred like public education, to move forward I graduated, and, thanks to DACA, I was sud- Action for Childhood Arrivals, DACA, with their lives and continue to con- denly eligible for relief from immigration announcement via Twitter. He said: ‘‘I tribute to their communities. That worries. DACA has helped me become the ran to the office lobby, turned on the means DACA beneficiaries could con- person I am today. Because of my work per- TV, and immediately knew right away tinue to pursue higher education, mit, I have been able to buy a home, a car, that life would not be the same. I and pay off my student loans. starting businesses, or putting their I launched a small business helping U.S. called my mother in tears and pro- skills to use without the constant fear citizens with their resume so they can get ceeded to tell her that my brothers and of deportation if the program is kept in jobs. I have a meaningful job and pay State I would be able to benefit from a pro- place.’’ and Federal taxes, I pay rent to live in my gram that would temporarily shield us Of course, we hope the Dream Act apartment in Washington, I eat at res- from deportation, while allowing us to will have a more beneficial impact taurants, shop at local stores, and pay for work and drive legally. I understood than just the DACA announcement, but public transportation. DACA was a temporary program that All the dollars that I have spent, and the that is what we are asking the Speaker dollars that 800,000 people like me spent, are would not cover parents, but it re- for a vote for. reinvested back in the community and help newed my commitment to fight for re- We thank Juan for sharing his impor- improve the lives of our American citizen lief for the rest of the immigrant com- tant story and reinforcing the constant neighbors and friends. munity. message that people are working hard

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:49 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.054 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H937 and they want to give back to the com- So here are the statistics that they ‘‘I am currently a student down the munity; the immigrant commitment have given us: street at George Washington Univer- and recognition that education is the Twenty percent of DACA recipients sity. I grew up in Georgia. I speak source of making the future better for are Asian-Pacific Islanders. English more fluently than I do Span- their families and for our country. Did Members know that? ish. America is home. I am an Amer- Denis Montero Diaz tells his story: ‘‘I More than 130,000 Asian-Pacific Is- ican. I am currently studying political didn’t cry. I knew it was for the best. I lander DREAMers. And 7,000 DREAM- science, and aspire to work for the said good-bye to many: the people I ers are from South Korea. Nearly 5,000 United Nations as an advocate for love. I felt uncertainty, yet I didn’t DREAMers are from the Philippines. human rights. I earned over $30,000 in cry. More than 3,000 DREAMers are from private scholarship money to attend ‘‘You see, I knew of the American India. Nearly 2,000 DREAMers are from college.’’ Dream. Every evening I’d watch Amer- Pakistan. And thousands more are She worked and did that. ican films filled with white picket from the rest of the Asian-Pacific area. Daniela says: ‘‘Nothing was handed fences and big city aspirations. I In addition to DACA, though, there to me. I did not qualify for instate tui- dreamed of setting foot in the land of are many people from the Asian-Pa- tion or any type of Federal financial opportunity. cific area who would be benefited if we aid. ‘‘After a disastrous journey, we ar- did comprehensive immigration re- ‘‘They call us DREAMers, but we are rived home. Every morning I pledged form. Today we are just speaking about actually working every day to make allegiance to the flag. I meant it. I ex- the DREAMers. our dreams into a reality. It’s cruel to celled in school. That is why our par- So I thank Congresswoman JUDY CHU deny me and the 800,000-plus DREAM- ents worked so hard, why we risked so for her persistent, relentless leadership ers a clean Dream Act. The impact of much; opportunities that come through on this subject as the chair of CAPAC— losing DACA would be devastating not education and hard work.’’ the Congressional Asian Pacific Amer- just emotionally and personally, but Again, that immigrant ethic of hard ican Caucus—and also her insistence in also detrimental to the economy. work ethic and education ethic. presenting the value of family unifica- DREAMers are going to school, open- Denis says: ‘‘Later, I learned what tion as a value, as a source of strength ing up businesses, working, paying my undocumented status truly meant. to America. This is an important de- taxes.’’ I felt uncertainty, shame, no future. bate that will be part of whatever I would add, serving in our military. Rattled by depression, I contemplated comes next in legislation. But I thank Daniela says: ‘‘A study by the Center giving up. her for her leadership in that regard. for American Progress estimated that ‘‘Luckily, I had educators that told An icon in the Congress, JOHN LEWIS the loss of all DACA workers would re- me I was wasting a mind. So I’ve con- from Georgia, has submitted this testi- duce U.S. gross domestic product by tinued to pursue my education and mony. JOHN has spoken so beautifully $433 billion over the next 10 years. Yes, help run our family business. on this subject. I think if anyone lis- $433 billion.’’ ‘‘Through DACA, me and 800,000 oth- tened to him, if the DREAMers heard Mr. Speaker, that is over the next 10 ers live freely. We can contribute. him, they would feel so comforted, in- years. Daniela says: ‘‘Removing the That’s our American Dream. That is spired, and optimistic. If others heard DREAMers is not only unethical and why my mother works so hard, hands him, if their hearts are open, they unjust, it’s also simply un-American aching, yet a kind smile on her face. would have to say we must get a result, because of the damage it would do to That’s why I study economics, to one we must do the right thing. JOHN al- the economy. day enthrall my mind to the better- ways inspires us in that way. What an ‘‘You gave an oath to protect the in- ment of this Nation.’’ honor it is for all of us to serve with terests of the American people. I am an Giving back. him, to call him our colleague. American. This is not a partisan issue. Denis says: ‘‘I watched Trump make JOHN submitted this story from a Please choose to be on the right side of his way to the podium. I felt uncer- Georgian. This is a Georgian’s state- history.’’ tainty. My own need for an answer was ment: ‘‘Last week, on January 30, 2018, I thank JOHN LEWIS for submitting channeled through the screen into the President Trump, in his State of the this beautiful statement. I also thank mind of a reporter who asked about Union, said, ‘Americans are DREAM- this Georgian for her testimony. I just DACA. No answer. Silence. ers, too.’ He didn’t mention the second want to say to Daniela that not only ‘‘The 45th President took office. Can- part: DREAMers are American, too. would we be—you ask us to be on the nons fired, people applauded, rain fell. ‘‘My name is Daniela, and I was there right side of history. I would say that, But I do not believe in omens. If the at the State of the Union last week in this Congress and in this country, life of 800,000 ‘DACAmented’ Americans when I heard President Trump say we not only want to be on the right is altered, it will not be by virtue of these words.’’ side of history, we want to be on the the rain. It will be by the lightning Daniela is a Georgian, as JOHN LEWIS right side of the future. And to be on strike of one man’s hand. has indicated. the right side of the future, we have to ‘‘We ask only to let us contribute Daniela goes on to say: ‘‘I was recognize who we are as a country, freely. Let us walk along you, shoulder brought over at age 4 because my what our values are. to shoulder, on that same road our mother realized that, if we stayed, we Imagine Founders who would say it hands helped to pave. Human decency wouldn’t survive.’’ is our national purpose and what we and morality demand it. The American She is from Acapulco, Mexico. owe people is life, liberty, and the pur- people, our people, demand it.’’ Daniela says: ‘‘And at the time, there suit of happiness. The pursuit of happi- So we thank Denis for sharing his were very limited ways to get into the ness is one of the goals of our Nation, story. You hear, Mr. Speaker, reiter- U.S. legally. It required a lot of money one of the standards of what we stand ated time and again, the work ethic, and time, something we didn’t have. for, to use the word again. family values, education, giving back ‘‘Put yourself in her shoes. What This is not just about protecting the to America, no free ride. would you have done for you and your economy. It is about protecting our I have mentioned the Congressional child? country, who we are as a country. So I Black Caucus and their leadership on ‘‘Wait years in a country that wasn’t thank JOHN LEWIS, and I thank Daniela this issue; the Hispanic Caucus and safe, for the hope that someday maybe for her impressive, impressive presen- their leadership. I am very, very proud you could come to America. A someday tation. of CAPAC. I represent a district that, that never came for some because as they say in San Francisco, the beau- death came knocking first.’’ b 1400 ty is in the mix; and one-third of my Death by violence. Brisa E. Ramirez’s statement says: ‘‘I district is Asian-Pacific American, so I Daniela says: ‘‘My mother did what was born in . . . Mexico. I am 26 years take a great pride in being part of the any good parent would do in that situa- old, and I have lived in the United CAPAC, the Congressional Asian Pa- tion. She decided to risk her life so States as an undocumented immigrant cific American Caucus. that her child could have a future. for 25 years.’’

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:25 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.056 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H938 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 Do the math, Mr. Speaker. That in. I learned English quickly and The cost of visiting a clinic is tremen- means Brias came at 1 year old. dropped my Spanish accent. I tried to dously overwhelming due to the fact ‘‘Throughout my childhood, I did not excel in my studies, even though this that we did not have the documents re- fully understand the repercussions that prompted comments that I was ‘acting quired for a medical insurance plan. came from hearing the status of ‘ille- White.’ I made friends, consumed pop- My parents, like many others through- gal’ in this country, but I did know my ular culture, played video games. I as- out the U.S., risk so much by pursuing mother and I had to be ‘careful.’ As an similated well because of that immense the American Dream every day. adult, I am now experiencing firsthand pressure known only to those who ‘‘On August 12, President Obama in- the restrictions, prejudice, and fear il- leave their homes for the land of oppor- troduced the Deferred Action for Child- legal immigrants must confront. Since tunity. I looked at other immigrant hood Arrivals Program. My sister and I childhood, I have always wanted to kids with their broken English and applied and we received our work per- make a tangible difference in the hand-me-down clothes and the way mits. My soul was euphoric with the world.’’ they were being teased. I wanted, and joy of being legal in this country, but Listen to that sentence. ‘‘Since child- often failed, to distance myself from then I discovered this valuable permit hood, I have always wanted to make a the perception that I did not belong. would only help me work legally but tangible difference in the world.’’ ‘‘The older I got, the more I realized would not grant me permanent resi- ‘‘Growing up in adversity inspired me that my situation wasn’t going to get dence. to obtain a college degree; I wanted to any better,’’ Giovanni writes on. ‘‘I qualified for scholarships like the become someone who could right the ‘‘ ‘Close’ friends criticized and spewed Gates Millennium Scholarship, but I wrongs experienced by those living in toxic mistruths about immigrants and would not even be considered because poverty. how they were ruining this country. I of my status. I looked high and low for ‘‘In 2012, when I first heard about lived under the constant fear that my any scholarship that would accept un- DACA, I was skeptical. The idea of self- home would be raided or that my par- documented students and made sure to disclosing my immigration status, es- ents would get arrested and sent to a apply because they were few and far be- pecially to the government, was terri- detention center. I became better and tween. Regardless of not being a per- fying. I waited 2 years to see what better at coming up with excuses for manent resident or citizen, I still made would become of those who bravely why I had no license, no car, no job, my dream of attending the University stepped out in order to receive their 2 of Texas’’—Austin, Texas—‘‘majoring years of deferment from deportation. why I couldn’t travel or take advan- tage of scholarships, why I turned down in neuroscience a reality. Eventually, I had to do the same. I un- ‘‘I consider myself blessed and hope derstood that I could continue to be internship opportunities and research that others can learn from my strug- ‘safe’ in the shadows but live as a positions with my professors. ‘‘At the risk of sounding cliche, gles. I am involved in UT University criminal or expose myself and live as a DACA opened doors for me. It goes well Leadership Initiative, an organization law-abiding individual. Even though I that advocates for immigrant rights feel like I have an expiration date, I beyond just being able to work and get and helps the community fight injus- am much happier thanks to DACA. a license and fly domestically. You see, ‘‘DACA has given me the ability to what all of us want is simple. We just tices. Despite DACA only allowing drive without fear, work legally with- want the opportunity to emerge from temporary relief to me, I appreciate it out fear, and earn jobs where I am not the shadows, to work and support our because it removed the burden of my exploited. DACA has given me the abil- families, to contribute back to our status from me and allowed me to work ity to use my college degree, which I communities, to love our partners/ and contribute to society. If DACA earned through private donations in spouses without the fear of being de- were removed, we would have to return the form of a full-tuition scholarship ported at a moment’s notice. We have to the shadows and live life in constant through years of hard work, persever- that now. But for how long?’’ fear.’’ ance, and many, many tears. DACA has We thank Giovanni for his message, We cannot let that happen. given me the ability to earn a position but again, fear, tears. As I said, the Another student from Georgia, this as an AmeriCorps VISTA and serve in Statue of Liberty must have tears in time McDonough, Georgia, Anayancy the fight against poverty in Boston. her eyes when she hears some of the Ramos, writes: ‘‘I learned to live as an . . . It’s amazing how nine digits and a comments that are made about immi- American before the memories of my flimsy piece of discolored paper can grants, fear in the hearts of some of homeland solidified into a permanent change your life. these people. Giovanni talks about impression. My mother tongue was for- ‘‘My dream is to create a more com- doors opening, saying it is like a cli- gotten as I learned to speak English, passionate society that restores human che, but DACA opened doors for him. weakening the profound virtuosity of dignity to those who are pushed fur- Let’s hope that passing the Dream Act my heritage and reshaping my family’s ther into the margins. I want to earn will keep those doors open. mannerisms and grandiose personal- my Ph.D. I want to become a leader of Deyanira writes this: ‘‘ ‘Adversity ities. In pursuing the American Dream, an organization that seeks to provide causes some men to break; others to my parents not only offered their lives, opportunities that do not trap people break records’—William Arthur Ward. but also their youngest daughter. in misery and dependence. I want to be ‘‘Although being undocumented has ‘‘In spite of losing my ancestors that a voice for the voiceless. My dream is been my toughest struggle here in the both defined me and were unknown to to discover potential in people who are United States,’’ Deyanira writes, ‘‘it me, I have fought for the new self I thought to have none because I know has shaped me to highly appreciate have built up from the ashes of the bro- what it is like.’’ education and encourage my younger ken dreams they tried to burn down. Thank you, Brisa, for your courage. siblings to excel in their studies in While in community college, I stead- Giovanni writes: ‘‘I left Panama on order to pursue a career. fastly held the distinction of a dean’s my eighth birthday on a flight bound ‘‘I was born in San Luis Potosi, Mex- list scholar and successfully completed for Los Angeles, California. At the ico. My parents decided early on that the requirements for earning an honors time, I didn’t fully understand the they wanted their children to grow up certificate by completing eight honors weight of what was happening. I was in better environments than the ones courses. I held the merit of being in- excited to have the people on my flight they grew up in. They migrated to the ducted into an honors society, Phi sing ‘‘Happy Birthday’’ to me. I was in- United States of America when I was Theta Kappa, and was appointed presi- trigued by the smoked salmon that the very young so that they could work dent of the Alpha Beta Gamma chapter stewardess served me for lunch. I had endlessly and send money back home the following year, all the while work- no idea that to this day, almost 20 to Mexico. At the age of 5, I migrated ing full-time at an animal hospital. years later, I would not return to my along with my sister. I was excited ‘‘I poured the desperation I felt over hometown or my childhood friends or about my family being united once being denied my education at the top the house that I was born in. again, despite the adversity we face. research schools in Georgia into my ‘‘From the moment I arrived in the ‘‘The hardships range from medical school and work. I rose to the position United States, I tried my hardest to fit situations to owning a driver’s license. of manager at the animal hospital and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:25 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.059 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H939 was the sole student awarded the dis- through his efforts to support us, re- ‘‘At that moment, the flames of dis- tinction of Student of the Year in Biol- gardless of the criticisms he received. parity gave way to the fire of indigna- ogy out of the total college population ‘‘DACA will forever hold a special tion, but this conflagration only kin- of 21,000 students’’—top student, 21,000 place in my heart, as it is through the dled within me a phoenix of preserva- students. benefit of being able to apply for ad- tion: I would persevere in spite of these ‘‘In an attempt to continue my edu- vanced parole that I was able to travel obstacles. I spent countless hours re- cation further than a 2-year associate’s to Chihuahua, Mexico, after 21 years to searching every possible opportunity degree, I was chosen from a pool of be with my beloved llalla Eva—grand- that would allow me to further my edu- thousands as a semifinalist for the mother—until her very last moments cation. prestigious Jack Kent Cooke scholar- on this Earth. ‘‘Lastly, I would like to encourage ship. Later that year, I was offered a ‘‘I will forever cherish the fact that you to think of the thousands of un- different private scholarship to attend DACA opened a world of opportunities documented people like myself. I stand Eastern Connecticut State University for me to support my family and com- before you to ask you to pass the at no cost to me. In another 2 years’ munities in ways I would have never Dream Act so I and many other un- time, I will graduate with a double able to do otherwise.’’ documented people not only can con- major in biochemistry and biology. Thank you, Cindy Nava, for sharing tinue pursuing the American Dream, ‘‘Four years was all it took for me to your personal story with us. but also no longer fear being separated effectively and irrevocably pursue the Here on the floor, Representative from our loved ones.’’ education I have proved that I deserve. BLUNT ROCHESTER from Delaware, I I thank Congresswoman BLUNT ROCH- However, these dreams have an expira- thank her for being with us. A member ESTER for this beautifully written, al- tion date. Every 2 years, I must go of the freshman class, Representative most poetic statement. Like so many through the taxing process of applying BLUNT ROCHESTER was effective from other DACA students and DREAMers, for DACA. Every 2 years, these dreams the start and into advocacy for our it is a story of family, of education, of may die. Until then, I breathe the DACAs from day one, and I thank her commitment, of patriotism—also beau- heart and soul of my denied ancestors for giving us this story of Indira Islas. tifully written. into my studies to keep them alive and Her story says: ‘‘I was born in Guer- I know that in the course of the day, to keep them ingrained in my pursuit rero, Mexico, and I came to the U.S. we have been joined by Congresswoman of the American Dream.’’ with my parents at the age of 6. I am ZOE LOFGREN, who has been a real So beautiful. Thank you, Anayancy. a 19-year-old DACA student currently champion on the issue of immigration And then I want to talk about Cindy: studying biology. and a champion, relentlessly, for our ‘‘My name is Cindy Nava. I was born in ‘‘September 16, 2013, seemed just like DREAMers. She has served as the chair Chihuahua, Mexico, and arrived in the any day. I was on my way home from of the Immigration and Border Secu- United States in 1997. I have been school when my bus came across heavy rity Subcommittee. She is now the blessed to grow up in a State that has traffic just a few miles from my stop. ranking Democrat on the Immigration demonstrated its appreciation and sup- As it inched forward and approached and Border Security Subcommittee. port to immigrant communities over the turn that led to my house, flashing She has practiced immigration law. the years. The State of New Mexico is lights and the scene of an accident She has taught immigration law. She not only the place I call home, but it is came into view. When we saw that an is a recognized leader, called upon by the State that has nourished my deep ambulance was blocking the intersec- all kinds of constitutional institutions love and passion for civic engagement tion, we all stood up eagerly from our for her views on this and other subjects and policy. seats—intrigued, fascinated, and curi- that relate to our Constitution and our ‘‘I began my college life at Santa Fe ous to see what happened. In the dis- country. She is relentless to satisfy Community College and then trans- tance beyond the comfort of my seat, and persistent. She is not only a lead- ferred to the University of New Mexico, my heart dropped as I recognized what er, but also a strong advocate. I thank where I obtained a BA degree in polit- was unmistakably my dad’s crushed the Congresswoman for her leadership. ical science in 2014. I did not obtain car. I mentioned earlier Congresswoman DACA until spring 2016 due to a local ‘‘After arriving in the emergency SHEILA JACKSON LEE. attorney who advised me not to apply. room, I was told to have a seat in the Also, when I mentioned the Immigra- However, this did not stop me from waiting area. As I sat down, so many tion and Border Security Sub- continuing my education. I served as things went through my mind before I committee that Congresswoman ZOE an intern and fellow for more than a was finally allowed to see him. A nurse LOFGREN serves on, that is a sub- dozen State and national political or- with a clipboard escorted me back, and committee of the Judiciary Committee ganizations, regardless of the fact that I held my breath as she opened the cur- of which she is a leader. they could not hire me. tain to his room. There was my dad, Congresswoman SHEILA JACKSON LEE, ‘‘I collaborated with organizations to handcuffed to his hospital bed and also a member of the Judiciary Com- register high school students to vote, looking utterly defeated.’’ mittee, a leader on the immigration while still not being able to cast a vote issue and expert on it, earlier I read 1415 myself. I interned at my State legisla- b her statement that she presented from ture for 6 years and went on to become ‘‘After a long embrace, he finally a DREAMer from Houston, Texas. I the first undocumented student to spoke. In his voice, he carried fear of thank the Congresswoman for being serve as an intern . . . through my se- the unknown and uncertainty of the fu- with us. lection for the Rilla Moran NFDW ture; he knew of the adversity ahead of Congresswoman BONNIE WATSON Award. us. Though his words were few, he COLEMAN from New Jersey is with us, ‘‘Thanks to DACA, I was able to began telling me that I was going to too, and she is a very outspoken force begin a graduate program and thus was have to be strong and to not lose focus on many subjects in the Congress. As able to accept a job as a graduate re- of my education. He was then taken to you see, we had many testimonies from search assistant at the University of jail. New Jersey, and I know she knows this New Mexico. Having the ability to ‘‘From that day on, I knew that my issue so well. travel to border States granted me the life would be different. In the midst of But for all of us, it is not just an ability to become the second DREAMer all of this, I found refuge in the one issue. It is a value. It is something very in the country to graduate from the thing that I had control over: my edu- important to us. EMERGE America women leaders cation. If I were to have lost my dad Earlier, also from New Jersey, was training program.’’ that day, September 16, I know he FRANK PALLONE, our ranking member Wow. would not have been disappointed be- on the Energy and Commerce Com- ‘‘DACA has changed my life, and I cause he would have been content mittee, who cares so deeply about this will always be grateful to President knowing that his children are going to issue. He has been in and out for most Obama for taking the first step to up- be left in a good place—which is all an of the 4 hours that I have been speak- lift our immigrant communities immigrant parent ever wants. ing.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:25 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.060 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H940 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 JOHN LEWIS, we had his beautiful nesty’’—no—‘‘and have pledge to fight ‘‘Because of DACA, I was able to statement from a DREAMer, Daniela, a against it, it should be stated that it is apply for and obtain a work permit and dreamer from Georgia. I thank the gen- far from that. If anything, it is a Band- driver’s license. DACA also gave me tleman for his great leadership. I sang Aid solution of addressing the needs the opportunity to live out my dreams. his praises earlier. I could spend an- and concerns of the millions of undocu- I am now a manager at a construction other 4 hours just talking about the mented immigrants in this country. company and own my own photography gentleman. I thank him so much. ‘‘My plan after graduating from business. I plan to continue pursuing Congresswoman MAXINE WATERS has Alverno College consists of making my aspirations regardless of my status. been here for most of the time. She, healthcare accessible to all and giving ‘‘I consider myself lucky among oth- too, as a Californian, understands the back to the community that I love so ers who were denied the rights granted impact of public policy on the lives of much. There are DREAMers that have by DACA. That is why I decided to people. As Dr. King told us, the ballot, become lawyers, doctors, police offi- share my story. I am not looking for legislation, your life, there is a direct cers, and small-business owners thanks any kind of recognition or sympathy, relationship. Legislation here has a di- to DACA, and their career choices ben- but looking to make a difference and rect impact on the lives of these peo- efit the country as a whole. inspire others. Hopefully, the Trump ple, and nobody understands that bet- ‘‘We are a group of hardworking indi- administration takes into consider- ter than MAXINE WATERS, our ranking viduals who just want the opportunity ation all of our stories when they make member on the Financial Services at a better life. My parents’ choice to a decision about the future. In the Committee. I commend her for her smuggle me across the border was irre- meantime, we, the DREAMers, need to leadership on the part of the American sponsible,’’ Alejandra says, ‘‘but I un- continue to set a high example for oth- taxpayer as well as consumer. derstand why they did it. Our home ers and give back to our communities Congresswoman NYDIA VELAZQUEZ country is being terrorized by poverty which have given us so much, even was also here earlier, a leader on the and drug cartels, and I can’t imagine while political forces threaten our committee, the Financial Services what my life would have been like if we daily lives. Committee, also a leader, the Demo- would have stayed. I am grateful for all ‘‘I know my story is one of many oth- cratic leader on the Small Business the privileges the United States has ers and that I speak for them when I Committee where many, many minor- granted me, and while DACA is just a say we are not asking for handouts, ity-owned businesses enjoy the benefit temporary fix to immigration policy, it only for an opportunity to work hard, of her leadership. She also was the is one that provides a pathway to suc- pay taxes like other citizens, and, chairman of the Hispanic Caucus the cess for millions of DREAMers in the mostly, live our lives in peace for the year that we passed the DREAM Act in country. first time, and for some of us, to live in the House of Representatives. I thank ‘‘If we are to lose DACA, I hope that peace in the only country that we call her and the members of the committee the new administration implements a home.’’ for making that victory possible then. reform that assures the well-being of Before I go into other testimony, I Congresswoman ANNA ESHOO of Cali- DREAMers—but if it doesn’t, I know want to recognize so many of our Mem- fornia, she has been a tremendous force that our will to keep fighting and pro- bers who have been here on the floor on this issue. A number of the testi- gressing won’t end. With or without with us and some who are watching monies that I have read have been ei- DACA, my future doesn’t feel uncer- from their offices and sending their ther from the Silicon Valley area or as- tain anymore. I will continue to pursue memos. pire to be from the Silicon Valley area. my goal of making healthcare acces- But I do want to acknowledge the There are a lot of entrepreneurship, sible. presence of Congressman CARBAJAL of STEM, and engineer aspirations in this ‘‘We aren’t asking for a handout. We California, a champion on this. list, so we thank Congresswoman are asking for the same opportunities They are all distinguished champions ESHOO for her role as a leader on the to succeed in the country we call on this issue, very concerned, working Energy and Commerce Committee and home.’’ very hard for us to get a debate and a for her strong advocacy for many. She Thank you, Alejandra. vote on the floor. and ZOE LOFGREN know better than al- Miriam Santamaria writes: ‘‘ ‘Don’t Congressman CARBAJAL of California, most anyone the contributions that worry when you are not recognized, but a freshman member; Congressman KIL- immigrants have made. strive to be worthy of recognition.’ ’’ DEE of Michigan, who leads the way Most of the new startup companies in Who said that? Abraham Lincoln. with 1-minutes on the floor; Congress- our area are started by immigrants to ‘‘ ‘Don’t worry when you are not rec- woman BONNIE WATSON COLEMAN, our country. Many of the people who ognized, but strive to be worthy of rec- whose birthday was yesterday and who would like to be part of that are part of ognition.’—Abraham Lincoln.’’ is sharing, today, with us. I acknowl- the DREAMer community. So we Miriam writes: ‘‘I have carried Lin- edged her earlier. I thank her. thank Congresswoman ESHOO also for coln’s advice throughout my life. It Congresswoman WATERS; Congress- her extraordinary leadership. resonates with me now more than ever. woman VELA´ ZQUEZ; Congressman I am going to go on to Alejandra ‘‘I was 4 years old when I was brought CORREA of California; Congresswoman Gonzalez. The story goes like this, Mr. to this country. After my father passed MATSUI of California; Congressman Speaker: away, my mother was faced with the GOMEZ of California; again, Congress- ‘‘I was 12 years old when I found out difficult task of raising two children on woman JACKSON LEE, now my third I was undocumented and when I found her own. It was then that she made the time to acknowledge Congresswoman out I couldn’t be a teacher like I’ve al- decision to come to the United States. JACKSON LEE; Congressman TAKANO of ways wanted to because, without the Leaving all of her comforts behind, she California; Congresswoman BARBARA proper documentation, I couldn’t re- sacrificed everything to pursue a better LEE. I read the testimony of her ceive grants and loans to afford a high- life for us. I have lived in this country DREAMer earlier. er education. I had to settle for jobs ever since. It was in Houston, Texas, Congressman LOWENTHAL of Cali- that didn’t allow me to use my full po- where I went to school, learned a sec- fornia; Congressman DARREN SOTO of tential because I didn’t have a Social ond language, graduated from high Florida. He has been such a champion Security number, and it was then that school with honors, and paid my way right from the start. I was down with I started to live a life full of anxiety, through community college. him at a university like the first stress, and depression because of the ‘‘I grew up with a vision of achieving month of his being in Congress, and uncertainty of my future and the the ‘American Dream,’ the same that day I spoke to General Kelly right threat of deportation. DACA was an in- ‘dream’ they teach you in school, the from the venue where we were speaking stant relief from that.’’ dream that anyone with honest char- to the students, and General Kelly told Alejandra goes on to say: ‘‘Since acter and conduct can succeed in this me that he cared deeply about DACA, I have been able to acquire the country. Yet none of that matters if DREAMers. I had confidence that he funds to go back to school. While some you do not have the ‘right’ identity would help us, and I still do, on this had seen DACA as a form of am- card. very important value that we share.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:25 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.062 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H941 Congressman MIKE THOMPSON of Cali- A strong Biblical number: 40 years in Mr. LEVIN has also been a strong ad- fornia; Congressman CA´ RDENAS, who the desert for the Jews, Moses and vocate. Coming from Michigan, he was just here, of California; Congress- Aaron; 40 years. Forty days in the brings a heartland perspective to our man TONKO of New York; Congress- desert with Christ. Forty days of Lent, discussion. I thank Mr. LEVIN. woman ALMA ADAMS of North Carolina. so important to many of us here. Forty I thank CAROLYN MALONEY from New I mentioned Congresswoman ZOE LOF- hours as a Catholic ritual, the 40 days York. Of course, New Yorkers think GREN. Again, I acknowledge her. Con- observing the 40 hours. Forty hours is a they own this issue, but so do we in gressman PANETTA, who presented tes- number that is fraught with oppor- California. But it is a heartland issue timony here; Congressman NORCROSS of tunity. as well. New Jersey. There is lots of New Jer- It is a prayerful time, too, whether it So I am very proud of all the Mem- sey testimony here. was in the desert with Christ or in Lent bers who have come here, and also for Congressman CARTWRIGHT of Penn- or 40 hours of religious devotion. We the work that they have done. There sylvania has been with us for a long should use these 40 hours. are many others who have been work- while; Congressman SERRANO of New I thought of coming to the floor, as I ing very hard on this issue when we York, a champion of all of those issues, said earlier, when Senator DURBIN was started our meetings at 8 o’clock this including our fight to be fair and just here and we sang his praises for being morning, continued in our leaders to Puerto Rico; Congressman ELLISON. such a champion on this issue. I was meeting with Mr. CROWLEY and Mr. I read the testimony of his DREAMer going to come and bring my rosary HOYER about where we go from here in earlier. blessed by the Pope and talk about not terms of the budget negotiations that Congresswoman ESHOO, I acknowl- just one rosary, five-decade, but all have gone on. edge her again for her extraordinary three, the full rosary. That would take As I said earlier, there are many good leadership. She has faith that this will some time. Prayerful about that. things in the budget agreement. They Instead, I did that during the night happen, and we pray together over it. have been responsive in a bipartisan and came here to make sure that ev- Congresswoman NORMA TORRES of way. Again, it is a compromise. I just eryone who follows Congress knows the California, reminding me that tomor- return to that because some people stories of these DREAMers and how row is the National Prayer Breakfast; may not have heard my first state- consistent they are with the aspira- Congressman RUIZ of California; Con- ment. tions of our Founders; how proud our gressman MCGOVERN from Massachu- The budget caps agreement includes Founders would be of the aspirations of setts, who has been with us a long many Democratic priorities. With the these young people to make the future time; Congresswoman VAL DEMINGS, a disaster recovery package and dollar- better; to give back to community; to new member of the Judiciary Com- for-dollar increases in defense and non- pledge allegiance to America; and to mittee from Florida; and Congressman defense budget, Democrats have se- fulfill life, liberty, and the pursuit of cured hundreds of billions of dollars to CASTRO of Texas, San Antonio. We had happiness that our Founders—imagine testimony from there. invest in communities across America. Founders putting as a purpose of our There will be billions in funding to b 1430 Nation the pursuit of happiness. They fight opioids and to strengthen our vet- were so wonderful. Everything we do I acknowledge Congressman AL erans. Remember what our priorities here has to be to honor the vision of GREEN from Houston, Texas; Congress- were. They were bipartisan priorities our Founders, to honor the sacrifice of man GENE GREEN from Houston, Texas; that we were fighting for, appealing our men and women in uniform and Congresswoman BLUNT ROCHESTER, for: fighting opioids, strengthening our what they do to make America the whom we had beautiful testimony from veterans, the National Institutes of country that we are, the home of the earlier; Congresswoman SLAUGHTER Health, to build job-creating rural in- brave and the land of the free, and also from New York; Congressman HUFFMAN frastructure and broadband, and to from California; Congressman MCNER- the aspiration of our children. So I reiterate the statement I made fund access to childcare and quality NEY from California; Congresswoman earlier: this is about the children. It is higher education. So it is a good piece BARRAGA´ N from California; Congress- about the children. Think of it as of work. woman JAN SCHAKOWSKY from Illinois; CHIP. CHIP is a healthcare program This morning we took a measure of Congressman GARAMENDI from Cali- for the children. It is handled dis- our Caucus because the package really fornia; Congresswoman BONAMICI from cretely. It has broad support. It is not does nothing to advance a bipartisan Oregon; Congresswoman JAYAPAL— the whole healthcare bill. It is CHIP legislation to protect DREAMers in the again, I acknowledge her leadership— for the children. House. Without a commitment from who is a member of the Judiciary Com- This is DREAMers for the children. It Speaker Ryan comparable to the com- mittee, the committee of jurisdiction is not the whole immigration bill. It is mitment from Leader MCCONNELL, this for this; again, I acknowledge Con- this. It is a confidence-building step, a package cannot have my support. How- gressman JOHN LEWIS; Congressman first step. We go to the next, more ever, I am hopeful that we can get that CICILLINE, who is a member of the Judi- complicated step of comprehensive im- commitment. ciary Committee; and Congressman migration reform we all know. That is Let me say about this House of Rep- JUAN VARGAS from California. why it is in our legislation that we are resentatives, first of all, as far as the They have been just extraordinary, beseeching the President—excuse me, Constitution is concerned, we take the all of them. well, the President to support, but our oath to protect and defend it. That is Again, the members of the Homeland Speaker to give us an opportunity to our responsibility. Security Committee, Congressman bring to the floor. Of all the things I thought—I thought BENNIE THOMPSON was in meetings with It recognizes our responsibility to I might be hungry, I thought I might us preparing to come to the floor, and protect our borders. It recognizes our be thirsty—I never thought I would get I want to acknowledge his leadership need to be true to who we are and true the sniffles from the rug. But I can on this as well. Congressman ADAM to our nature in terms of being inspired handle it if you can. SCHIFF spent some time with us in Cau- by these DREAMers and giving them Honoring the Constitution of the cus downstairs on this subject. So the protections that they should have. United States is so important. The many of our colleagues participated in So we want that opportunity. first branch, Article I, the legislative our early morning meeting until our Some other colleagues have arrived branch, we are the first branch of gov- next meeting to come to the floor. who have been helping work on this ernment. We are the people’s House in I will tell you about the early morn- issue. Our distinguished chairman of the wisdom of our Founders elected ing meeting, which began around 8 the House Democratic Caucus, Mr. every 2 years to have us constantly ac- a.m., because when I went into the CROWLEY. I think he has been present countable to our constituents. meeting at 8, I said to our colleagues at every meeting we have had with the The Constitution said that appropria- that from 8 this morning until 12 to- large and small DREAMers, friends of tions bills should begin in the House. morrow night is 40 hours, Mr. Speaker. DREAMers, and the rest. I thank the So the House sent over a continuing Forty hours. gentleman for his leadership. resolution.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:25 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.063 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H942 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 Was that yesterday? eloquent than anything any of us can chance to prove that we are part of this It seems like a long time ago now. say. country’s future and success. Because The Senate is acting upon that by But we do not deserve any right, any of DACA, I am able to say I am a part- adding to it the compromise that I de- of us, to say we love DREAMers or any- time student and part-time staff for an scribed and which I think is a good thing like that unless we have an in- after-school program.’’ piece of work. I commend both the tention of doing something about it. Ana goes on to say: leaders, MITCH MCCONNELL and CHUCK The DREAMers have worked so hard ‘‘I am two steps closer to becoming a SCHUMER, for their negotiations for with such dignity over so many years, businesswoman and a teacher, and that which our House Democratic input was some of them. They have earned the gives me hope. Sadly, however, the new a major part. So I associate myself high regard of the American people. administration has posed threats that with it. One of the figures that is so over- would make my hope and my dreams However, the difference between the whelming: 90 percent want the unreachable. If the permit is taken House and the Senate is that Senator DREAMers to stay, 80 percent with away, our hard work will become MITCH MCCONNELL, the Republican citizenship, and 70 percent of the Re- worthless. I want to give back to this leader in the Senate, was respectful of publicans support the DREAMers. country, so I yearn Congress to give me his members who asked in a bipartisan So we are not asking for something that chance.’’ way for him to bring a bill to the floor, off the wall. It is something that is— We thank Ana for her statement. and he will give that opportunity. The yes, maybe it is off the wall. Maybe the Fidencio Fifield-Perez says: chips will fall where they may when wall is the issue here, but nonetheless. ‘‘A high school teacher told me, ‘Peo- they have the debate, but they viewed Life, liberty, and the pursuit of hap- ple like you don’t go to college.’ I was that opportunity as a fair one. piness, again talking about those accepted to seven colleges after grad- We are asking for the same thing. Founders, a new order for the ages, uating with honors from Emsley A. Now, in our House, our bipartisan bill every generation taking the responsi- Laney High School, and I now hold a is further developed. It is the Hurd- bility for making the future better for BFA from Memphis College of Art as Aguilar bill, which, as I said, recog- the next. Every testimony talks about well as an MA and MFA from the Uni- nizes our responsibility to protect our that. Parents are making sacrifices for versity of Iowa. borders, but also does the job for our their children to have a better life, a ‘‘In July 2012, I stood in front of the DREAMers. It is just a piece of the im- direct reflection of the American television with tears rolling down my migration bill, but a confidence builder Dream of hope, determination, opti- face as I heard President Obama enact in a bipartisan way, done, again, in a mism, and faith, faith in God, faith in the controversial executive action bipartisan way to build unity with the future, faith in America, faith in after the DREAM Act, a bipartisan bill, transparency. family, faith in the work ethic, and failed to reach cloture in the Senate. Let’s have the debate on the floor. faith in education. Even through those tears, I knew that So why should we be considered the All of these testimonies talk about my life and the lives of so many others place where appropriations begin, the giving back. There is not an ounce of were at risk and that most people place where we will have to take a vote arrogance anyplace. All of them are ap- would never see this. on that again, the only place in Amer- preciative of what America has given ‘‘I was the first of my family to grad- ica where you can’t debate the issue? them. Sometimes naming names, other uate from high school. Every undocu- Give us a chance. Give us a vote. Put times schools, other times churches, mented person I knew, other than my it all on the floor. Make it queen of the but always understanding that the op- two younger brothers, dropped out ei- hill. Bring your Goodlatte bill to the portunities they have are a blessing ther because it was expected of them or floor. Maybe what the Senate comes up from our country, and we recognize because a high school diploma meant with should be on the floor as well. We that they are a blessing to America. nothing for the jobs to which they ap- will see what that is. With that, we will go on to Ana San- plied. I remember being told to get a It is bipartisan. We know that it will chez. Ana says: ‘‘Like any other bene- job that paid under the table and to be bipartisan. That requires a big vote, ficiary of DACA, I, for once, have been keep my head down. This was contrary a supervote in the Senate, the Hurd- given the opportunity to pursue my to what my elementary and high Aguilar bill, which has enough Repub- dreams by attaining higher education school teachers had told me. ‘Work lican cosponsors and many more sup- and a job. I am Ana Sanchez, an 18- hard, and you too can make something porters to justify it being brought to year-old undocumented student who of your life.’ Of course, they were as the floor. was brought to this country when I was unaware of my status as I was of the So what we are asking for is just sim- only 2 years old. Due to living condi- full repercussions that came with it.’’ ply a vote. No guaranty. Just the abil- tions of my home country, my parents Everyone was excited to start col- ity to debate and consider. Queen of decided to immigrate to the United lege, and he goes on to talk about all of the hill, whoever gets the most votes, States to offer me and my sister a that, but it is a similar story about the that is the bill that would prevail in much better education and a brighter sacrifices of parents, the sacrifices of the House of Representatives. If that future. parents to take the risk, parents to would be the Senate bill, then that ‘‘Growing up, I was aware that I was work hard and encourage education, would be the end of it, and that would born in Mexico. However, I did not parents wanting to make the future go to the President. If it is the Hurd- know the effects of being undocu- better for their children. It is a beau- Aguilar, that would go to Conference, mented until high school came about. tiful, beautiful story. as would the Goodlatte bill, should Now that I am older, I realize who I am Julyanna Carvalho Rogers: that get the highest number of votes. in the eyes of the government, and it ‘‘I came to the United States for the But I don’t anticipate that would be saddens me to know that people believe first time when I was 11 years old. My the case because I don’t think it has bi- these misconceptions of us. I mean, younger sister was brought to St. Jude partisan support. But, again, have the ever since we arrived in Texas, my dad Children’s Research Hospital with leu- debate and let the chips fall where they has risked his health and life by work- kemia.’’ may. ing under dangerous conditions just to How beautiful. So that is why we are here. Since we earn enough money to provide food and ‘‘We came back 3 years later for her can’t have that debate, all night, as I shelter for my family. checkup, and we found out she had re- was saying my rosaries blessed by the lapsed. My dad was afraid of trying to Pope in honor of my mother, I thought: b 1445 change our expiring tourist visa in case Can we say the Rosary on the floor? ‘‘When it was announced that DACA we had to go back to Brazil and my sis- Where can we have this debate? would be available for people like me, ter would not be able to receive treat- MAXINE’s bill. We have to be here for my family did not think twice; we all ment. My sister is now a cancer sur- MAXINE’s bill. I will use my 1 minute— knew it was an advantage and a pre- vivor and would not have been if we my leadership 1 minute to tell these cious opportunity the country had had gone back to Brazil. My family left stories, which they are so much more given us. Finally we had been given the everything behind to save her and give

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:53 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.065 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H943 us a better life. Thanks to Obama’s In anticipation of the State of the the campus career services when pro- DACA, I was able to work and help pay Union Address, Lopez issued the fol- viding guidance and up-to-date infor- for my college education. Thanks to lowing message: mation for current pre-med majors Obama, my sister also received health ‘‘My name is Juan Lopez, and I ar- looking for medical schools that are insurance; as a two-time cancer sur- rived in the United States of America mostly DACA friendly.’’ vivor, she needs a lot of care and atten- at the young age of 2 years old. I have Karji Forhit goes on and on and talks tion. been living in the United States for about that and the need for doctors in ‘‘I thought about giving up many over 15 years now.’’ our country. times. I’ve always been afraid to tell He is 17 now, Mr. Speaker. So it is, again, another chance for my story because so many times I’ve ‘‘I remember the first time I heard more doctors. We have talked about felt judgment towards immigrants. I’m my legal status referred to as illegal health professionals. We have talked no longer afraid, I feel that if everyone alien. I immediately felt as though the about researchers in the healthcare shares their story, others will term did not fit. Alien means outsider, field. We have talked about doctors, empathize and realize we all have the and I have never felt like one. dentists. We have talked about grad- same story. ‘‘I have lived the entirety of my life uate students and health-related issues ‘‘Four years ago, when I felt my low- in the same place, but I am not and the need for more health profes- est, I met my husband. We fell in love ashamed of where I was from. I em- sionals in our country to meet the right away. We found each other after braced the term undocumented and health needs of our country. We hear years of searching. We now have two have used it as a propelling force in my this coming from these students. dogs, and we plan on having kids in the own pursuit of greatness.’’ Since we were talking here about next few years.’’ Imagine, his own pursuit of great- this, I wanted to just mention we That sounds like my daughter. She ness. You go, you 17-year-old Juan talked about Notre Dame here, but so says: You are going to be a grand- Lopez. many of the institutions of higher parent of a grandpuppy. Okay, thanks. ‘‘I am a recipient of the Deferred Ac- learning in our country have been so Now we have nine, but our first grand- tion for Childhood Arrivals, otherwise supportive of our DREAMers. The ad- child was a big dog. known as DACA, and it is something I ministrations of these institutions of ‘‘I’m extremely passionate about am very proud of. I am a DREAMer, higher learning have been advocates helping others, and I currently volun- and I will continue to dream whether it for the DREAMers. They have tried to teer for One Family Memphis, a foun- is here or wherever the government accommodate them where possible, ad- dation that is building from the ground sends me.’’ vocate for them wherever, and part of up. I am looking forward to making a Karji Forhit. This is the opening line: what we talked about earlier. difference in the Memphis community ‘‘ ‘I think you get married after you Earlier, we talked about Bibles, as well as raising my kids to see the graduate high school.’ These are words badges in our law enforcement commu- light hidden in every darkness.’’ my SAT tutor said to me during my nity, and the business community. The CAROL SHEA-PORTER is here from New college consultation visit. Halfway business community, tied in with the Hampshire, as well as SUSAN DAVIS through making my college list, he academic community, has been a tre- from California. I thank them for their abruptly halted the conversation and, mendous resource. leadership and being here. for a moment, my future. He did not I particularly want to mention the Another story from SHEILA JACKSON think that I was fit for college, despite CEO of IBM. LEE. Alonso Guillen. my top-notch academic record that I IBM has been so good to its DREAM- Last September, Alonso, a Mexican Na- maintained since the day I entered pre- ers. They have respected them, given tional and DREAMer, drove more than 100 kindergarten. The only viable options them opportunities, and advocated and miles from his home in Lufkin, Texas, to he saw from all undocumented youths brought them to the Capitol, come here help those trapped by Hurricane Harvey’s was marriage.’’ flooding in the Houston area. But he and an- with their CEO. other man disappeared after their boat cap- ‘‘My name is Karji Forhit, and I am It is just really quite remarkable, but sized in the flood-swollen creek Wednesday, an undocumented immigrant. I was I could say that about a large swath of and relatives went back searching for their born in India and grew up in the di- companies in Silicon Valley. Bill Gates bodies. verse streets of Jackson Heights’’—in has been a champion on this issue. I He moved to Lufkin at age 14 from across the heights, New York City—‘‘since really give them credit for keeping the the border in Mexico, graduated from Lufkin third grade. I have worked hard not prestige of this issue in such a high, High School, and worked in construction. He only to help myself, but help those in high place and making it a priority in often organized fundraisers for those in need undocumented communities.’’ and masterminded his rescue trip to the their advocacy here and, importantly, Houston area on the fly with friends’ help. He goes on to say: in their community. The business com- When Hurricane Harvey hit, they borrowed a ‘‘My mother decided to move to munity has been spectacular both in boat and drove South to save strangers. America because it is where the rains terms of small business and corporate How beautiful. of hard work, sprinkled with luck, America as well. Alonzo is survived by his 8-year-old equals success. When President Obama Again, since we have newcomers daughter, Mariana. created DACA, it gave me the oppor- here, I want to go back to our bishop Mariana, you are in our prayers, and tunity to attend the University of statement from earlier. I thought it we thank you for sharing your father Notre Dame, where I am pursuing my would be useful once again, since we with America and for his sacrifice. How goal of getting a Ph.D. in economics. have a new Speaker, to read the state- sad. Thank you. DACA allows me to work not only as a ment of the U.S. Conference of Catho- DONALD PAYNE, Jr.’s State of the research assistant to Professor Jeffrey lic Bishops. Union guest was Juan Lopez from New Bergstrand, but also as a tutor at the This was their statement on the deci- Jersey. Notre Dame writing center. Honing my sion to end DACA and urge Congress to Juan Lopez migrated to the United writing and research skills will not find a legislative solution. That is what States from Uruguay at age 2 and was only advance my career, but will also we are trying to do today, is find a leg- raised in Newark, New Jersey. He was advance the careers of my fellow un- islative solution, or at least give it a selected for the Rutgers Future Schol- documented peers at Notre Dame. chance to be debated on the floor. ars program, which is a college pre- While Notre Dame has provided numer- The following statement from the paratory mentoring program for select ous opportunities for its DACA stu- U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, first-generation, low-income, academi- dents, there is still a lot of work to be President Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo cally promising students from local done. I am the second generation of un- from Galveston, Houston; along with schools. documented students that Notre Dame Vice President Archbishop Jose H. Lopez is a senior at Newark Science has publicly accepted. Last summer, I Gomez from Los Angeles; Bishop Joe S. Park High School and plans to attend conducted research on medical school Vasquez from Austin, Texas, who is the Rutgers-Newark on a scholarship to admission policies for undocumented chairman of the Committee on Migra- study pre-engineering. students. This research is critical for tion; Bishop Joseph J. Tyson from

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:25 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.066 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H944 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 Yakima, chairman of the Sub- and the ambition and the vocation that referred to as driving without a proper committee on Pastoral Care of Mi- these young people were feeling to- driving permit, as the State you lived grants, Refugees, and Travelers says wards becoming doctors, and I read in required proof of legal residency the ‘‘cancelation of the DACA program this. The Association of American Med- when applying for a driver’s license. is reprehensible.’’ ical Colleges reports that the Nation’s Driving like this meant risking legal The statement follows: doctor shortage will rise between 40,000 problems when heading out to the gro- ‘‘The cancellation of the DACA pro- and 105,000 by the year 2030. Both the cery store if you made a driving mis- gram is reprehensible. It causes unnec- American Medical Association and the take and got caught for it. essary fear for DACA youths and their Association of American Medical Col- ‘‘Living in the shadows meant no fi- families. These youth entered the U.S. leges have warned that ending DACA nancial assistance at your local com- as minors and often know America as will exacerbate this physician shortage munity college, which pretty much cre- their only home. in the United States, and they have ated an impossible financial barrier be- ‘‘The Catholic Church has long urged Congress to pass legislation to tween your career dreams and you. In watched with pride and admiration as protect DREAMers. the shadows, you had no options but to DACA youth live out their daily lives Are you listening? Listen to what the work in the same farm as your family. with hope and a determination to AMA said. ‘‘And let me tell you, perseverance is flourish and contribute to society: con- ‘‘Estimates have shown that the a requirement when laboring for below tinuing to work and provide for their DACA initiatives could help introduce the minimum hourly rate in sweat-in- families, continuing to serve in the 5,400 previously ineligible physicians ducing conditions. This life was my military, and continuing to receive an into the U.S. healthcare system in the own before DACA, and I may not be in education. coming decades to help address physi- the shadows any longer, but my fami- ‘‘Now, after months of anxiety and cian shortages and ensure patient ac- lies and relatives haven’t escaped yet. fear about their futures, these brave cess to care.’’ ‘‘I have been working as an IT sup- young people face deportation. This de- Remember, those with DACA status porter and analyst for a midsize drug cision is unacceptable and does not re- will particularly create care shortages company for under a year now. This is flect who we are as Americans,’’ the for rural and other underserved areas. the best job I ever had, and I don’t say bishops said. Without these physicians, the AMA is this because my hourly pay has in- concerned that the quality of care pro- creased. I genuinely love what I’m b 1500 vided in these communities will be neg- doing now,’’ Victor tells us. They go on to say: ‘‘The Church has atively impacted and that patient ac- ‘‘Unless you know me on a deep level, recognized and proclaimed the need to cess to care will suffer. you would think I was just another 26- welcome young people: ‘Whoever wel- This is remarkable, and I am glad it year-old with a promising career and comes one of these’ ’’—now, this quote will be submitted for the RECORD, but I not someone plagued by fear of Trump is so beautiful, and we should remem- am going to make sure all of our Mem- campaign promises. This narrative, I ber it in everything we do. It is in bers have this. feel, is not only mine. It is owned, Mark 9:37. ‘‘Whoever welcomes one of I acknowledged Mr. THOMPSON ear- shared by hundreds of thousands of these children in my name welcomes lier. Congresswoman GRACE NAPOLI- others who also have persevered be- me, and whoever welcomes me does not TANO of California is with us now. We cause of DACA. If I could have had a welcome me but the one who sent me.’’ have got JACKIE SPEIER, I acknowledge conversation with the President-elect, Christ welcoming, we welcome Christ, her; JAMIE RASKIN of Maryland; VAL I would tell him just that, that we have we welcome God who sent him—so DEMINGS, I mentioned earlier. persevered.’’ beautiful. Let me see. ALMA ADAMS, I recog- Thank you, Victor. The bishop goes on to say: ‘‘Today, nized earlier, too. Ms. BARRAGA´ N; Senator DURBIN has sent us some our Nation has done the opposite of BRENDA LAWRENCE from Michigan, who more stories. Again, he is our hero in how Scripture calls us to respond. It is brings that heartland of America per- the Senate. He introduced the bill in a step back from the progress that we spective to it; ANN KUSTER of New 2001. He has spent most of his official need to make as a country. Today’s ac- Hampshire. Congresswoman EDDIE career with DACA as a priority. He has tions represent a heartbreaking mo- BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas is with us as been a champion for America’s working ment in our history that shows the ab- well. families. He is about creating jobs, sence of mercy and good will and a Many Members have come and gone, good-paying jobs for the future, about shortsighted vision of the future. some on more than one occasion, but I safety in the workplace. DACA users are woven into the fabric acknowledge everyone who has been He is the person, along with Frank of our country and of our Church and here already. Lautenberg, who got smoking off of are, by every social and human meas- Anybody new on this side? airlines. Thank you, as one who trav- ure, American youth. Okay. So we probably want to hear els. Last week, I had eight flights in 10 ‘‘We strongly urge Congress to act now about Victor Esparza. days. I thank Senator DURBIN for that. and immediately resume work toward Victor Esparza says: ‘‘The day I re- He has been a champion in so many, a legislative solution. We pledge our ceived my employment authorization many ways: champion of the National support to work on finding an expedi- card through President Obama’s DACA Institutes of Health, of learning from tious means of protection for DACA program is the day I began to live experience in his own daughter’s youth. . . .’’ without fear. The uber-small and not health, about the need for Biblical ‘‘As people of faith, we say to DACA very well-known village of Eau Claire, power to cure that the National Insti- youth—regardless of your immigration Michigan, is the place that raised me tutes of Health has and appropriated status, you are children of God and since I was 7 years old. for. The list of his accomplishments is welcome in the Catholic Church. The ‘‘My elementary school teachers great, and this is one of them, the Catholic Church supports you and will never treated me differently because I DREAMers. advocate for you.’’ came from somewhere else and didn’t So he sent us this story from Cesar That was September 5, 2017. That was speak the language at the time, and for Montelongo: the day that the President issued his that, I loved them. I took pride in Today, I want to tell you about Cesar statement. doing my best in my high school Montelongo. When Cesar was 10 years Now, having worked with the bishops courses even though I was filled with old, his family came to the United for awhile, for them to have such a de- anxiety for not knowing what would be States from Mexico. finitive statement so quickly is pretty next in my life after my graduation in He grew up in New Mexico, where his remarkable because sometimes it takes the summer of 2008. academic prowess was quickly appar- a bill longer for their deliberative proc- ‘‘As my former high school peers ent. He graduated high school with a ess to work, but this came right away. went off to universities and employ- grade point average above 4.0, and he Okay. This is doctors and DREAMers. ment, I went off to live in the shadows, was ranked third in his class—third in I mentioned about the need for doctors living under the metaphorical shadow his class.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:25 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.067 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H945 Cesar was a member of the chess, Remember that AMA statement from services? I think the answer is quite French, Spanish, physics, and science earlier about how important this all is. clear. No, we won’t be strong. clubs. He even took college courses the I don’t have it here right now. Today, again, I want to tell you last 2 years of high school. We now want to talk about William about Ximena Magana. When Ximena Cesar went on to New Mexico State Medeiros: was 9 years old, her family came to the University, where he was a triple major When William was only 6 years old, United States from Mexico City. She in biology, microbiology, and Spanish, his family moved to the United States was raised in the city of Houston. We as well as two minors in chemistry and from Brazil. William grew up in the have a lot of Houston folks. biochemistry. Cesar graduated with Boston area and then moved to Flor- JERRY MCNERNEY, I acknowledged distinction in the honors track with a ida. him earlier, and thank him for being 3.9 GPA. In high school, he was an honors stu- here. Mr. MCGOVERN, I acknowledged Cesar then earned a master’s degree dent and graduated with a 3.8 GPA. He him earlier. in biology, with a minor in molecular was also an athlete, playing on his high Mr. GRIJALVA, RAUL GRIJALVA, who biology, while also working as a teach- school’s soccer and football teams. has been really an outstanding leader ing assistant. Today, Cesar is the first William is now a student at the Uni- on this subject, has joined us, but he DACA student enrolled in the M.D.- versity of Central Florida, where he has been with us in every meeting Ph.D. program at Loyola University— has a 3.5 GPA. He will graduate in the today on the subject. I thank RAUL for Chicago—Stritch School of Medicine. spring of 2019 with his bachelor’s de- joining us here. He is entering his third year of this gree in criminal justice. I acknowledged her earlier, Congress- highly competitive program, and upon He is also working a full-time job in woman NYDIA VELA´ ZQUEZ, the fact that completion, he will receive a medical order to support himself. Because he is she was the chair of the Spanish Cau- degree and a doctorate degree in a DACA recipient, William is ineligible cus the year when we passed the science. for any financial aid from the Federal DREAM Act in the House of Represent- Cesar is one of the more than 30 Government. atives. DACA recipients at the Stritch School William’s dream? To enlist in the And as I acknowledged earlier, Sen- of Medicine, which was the first med- military, and then, after serving his ator DURBIN was the author in the Sen- ical school to admit students with country, to become an officer with his ate. It got a majority of the votes, but DACA status. local police department. not 60. Thank you, Loyola University Thanks to DACA, William is on his So I thank those two leaders once Stritch School of Medicine. This began way to fulfilling his dream. Last year, again. in 2014 when they admitted DACA stu- he enlisted in the Army through the b 1515 dents. Medical Accessions Vital to National Ximena was 9 years old when her DACA students do not receive special Interest program, known as MAVNI. family came to the United States from treatment in the selection process and And here is a photo of him with his Mexico City. She was raised in the city are not eligible for any Federal finan- recruiter at the enlistment ceremony. of Houston and lives there today. cial assistance. Many have committed The MAVNI program, as I mentioned In high school, Ximena served in the to working in a medically underserved earlier, allows immigrants with skills United States Army’s Junior Reserve community in Illinois after graduation. that are vital to the national interest Officers’ Training Corp, known as the Cesar Montelongo is researching how to enroll in the armed services. More Junior ROTC program. Under her lead- bladder viruses shape bacteria popu- than 800 DACA recipients with these ership, Ximena’s battalion was named lations and the potential implications critical skills have joined the military the best battalion in the Houston Inde- for urinary infections and disease. through MAVNI just through that pro- pendent School District. Wow. gram. Ximena also serves as captain of her He is also a member of the pathology Some in the Trump administration high soccer team and a regular volun- medical group, a Spanish interpreter at claim that DACA is taking jobs away teer at the Houston Food Bank. A real a clinic, and a mentor for other med- from Americans, but William and hun- leader, Ximena is majoring in commu- ical students. dreds of other DREAMers have vital nications at the University of Houston. When asked what drew him to medi- skills that our military couldn’t find She has interned with United States cine, Cesar says: ‘‘When I was very elsewhere. William, along with other Representative SHEILA JACKSON LEE young, my father became ill and then DREAMers, is waiting to ship out to and City Council Member Robert was bedridden for months. He was the basic training. He continues his under- Gallegos. Due to Ximena’s community primary breadwinner, and I saw him as graduate studies and working full- service, she was asked by the mayor of our protector. Watching him immo- time, waiting his chance to serve the Houston to serve as the youngest mem- bilized and screaming in pain impacted country he loves. ber of the Mayor’s Hispanic Advisory my world view. Years later, we found William wrote this letter: ‘‘My desire Board. She is the first DACA recipient out that my father had suffered from to serve this Nation and help people, to to serve on the board. diabetic myopathy and neuropathy. pay back my dues for everything I re- Last week, in the aftermath of Hurri- Learning that both his illness and our ceived from this great country, and to cane Harvey, Ximena stepped in to help family suffering could have been pre- lead by example by showing my fellow her community just like she has al- vented by education and relatively in- DACA members that anything is pos- ways done. She volunteered at shelters expensive medication was heart- sible with hard work, perseverance, and helping people with FEMA and Red breaking. By that time, it made me re- dedication.’’ Cross applications. She was joined by alize the potential of medicine.’’ William Medeiros and other DREAM- many other DACA recipients. It is a Cesar’s dream for the future? To be- ers have so much to contribute to our stunning story of DACA recipients come a practicing physician and a sci- country, but without the Dream Act, helping after Hurricane Harvey. entist and to develop new and improved William and hundreds of other immi- Ximena wrote me a letter—this is clinical diagnostic tools so that doc- grants with skills that are vital to our from Senator DURBIN. She asked for tors can diagnose and treat disease national interests will be kicked out of only one thing: for President Trump to faster. the Army. come visit the Houston DACA volun- Close to 70 DREAMers are in medical They want nothing more than to teers, to meet these heroes, to look in school around the country. But with- serve, and they are willing to die for their eyes, hear their stories before de- out DACA, these DREAMers will not the country they call home. Instead, porting them to countries they barely become physicians and they could be they could be deported back to coun- know. deported back to countries where they tries they haven’t lived in since they Ximena and other dreamers have so haven’t lived since they were children. were children. much to contribute to our country. Will America be a stronger country if Will America be stronger if we deport Again, I ask the country: Will America we deport people like Cesar? I don’t William and people like him who want be stronger if we deported Ximena? I think so. The answer is clear. to stay here and serve in the armed don’t think so.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:25 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.069 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H946 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 Cristina Velasquez—no relation to 190 other teachers will be forced to math—on Saturdays, every Saturday— Congresswoman VELA´ ZQUEZ. leave their students behind. and he volunteered to help a teacher at Today I want to tell you about Again, will America be stronger? I a local elementary school. Cristina Velasquez. When Cristina was don’t think so. Luis was also very active in his 6 years old, her family came to the Jesus Contreras: Jesus was only 6 church. Every Sunday, he translated United States from Caracas, Venezuela. years old when he was brought to the the pastor’s sermon into English for She went to elementary school in United States from Mexico by his those who didn’t speak Spanish. And he Madison, Wisconsin. mother, who sought safety from vio- cleaned up the church before and after Cristina wrote this letter. In it, she lence. He grew up in Houston. Sunday service. talked about her childhood, and she After graduating from high school as Because of his outstanding record in said: ‘‘I spent my formative childhood a top student, Jesus obtained DACA. high school, Luis was admitted to years in the Midwest, where I learned This enabled him to pursue his dream Georgetown University. He is currently to assimilate and learn the values that of becoming a paramedic. Jesus at- a sophomore and majoring in American this country was founded on. The salt- tended Lone Star College in Houston studies and minoring in government. of-the-earth quality of the people and earned his paramedic certification. Luis continues to use his spare around me and extraordinary kindness Today, Jesus is 23 years old. He works time—really—to give back to the com- between strangers shaped my own val- as a paramedic in the Montgomery munity. He is a member of the Pro- ues and attitude towards others. Grow- County Hospital District. vost’s Committee for Diversity. He is ing up in Madison taught me a great Through Hurricane Harvey, Jesus the co-chair of the Hoya Saxa Week- deal about compassion, patience, and Contreras worked six straight days res- end, a program that brings students hard work.’’ cuing people from flood areas. He from underrepresented communities to Cristina was an outstanding student. helped people who needed dialysis or visit Georgetown. And Luis is a leader In high school, she was a member of insulin. He took flood victims to local of Stride for College, a program that the National Honor Society—you have hospitals. Afterward, he would stop at mentors students at local inner-city heard that over and over and over home for a quick shower before heading high schools. Luis’ dream is to be a high school again, the National Honor Society— to his local church to volunteer, help- teacher, which is not surprising, given and she also was elected as vice presi- ing flood victims with their medical the strong commitment he has already dent of her class and manager of the needs. Jesus sent this letter, and it says: shown to helping young people. track team. She also found time to vol- Luis wrote in his letter: ‘‘DACA gave ‘‘Houston is my home, and these are unteer. me the confidence and the security I my people. I love my career. It has I love the way kids are so top-notch, had not had before. I lived in fear and given me the opportunity to help peo- academically, participate in athletics in the shadows. Thanks to DACA, how- ple in ways I never imagined I could. and the rest, and in their spare time ever, I have been able to do things I work at the local camp for pre-K stu- DACA means everything to me. I would otherwise wouldn’t be able to do, like dents or the food bank or whatever it lose my license and certifications with- traveling through an airport or work- is. out it. I would be sent back to a coun- ing on a campus. I’ve always felt that Cristina graduated with honors from try I don’t know and would lose every- I am an American, but having DACA Miami Dade College. She is currently a thing.’’ allowed me to stop living in constant student at Georgetown University, ma- Jesus and other DREAMers have so fear and uncertainty. Now these fears joring in international law, institu- much to contribute to our country. But have come back again.’’ tions and ethics. She received the without DACA, Jesus couldn’t have Will America be stronger if we deport President’s Volunteer Service Award 2 worked to protect his community Luis Gonzalez if he stays here and be- years in a row and is a Walsh Scholar. through Hurricane Harvey, and he comes a high school teacher? And as a Hoya mom and Hoya wife could be deported back to Mexico, I think that the answer is obvious. and Hoya grandmother, I can tell you, where he hasn’t lived since he was 6 Now, on this subject of Georgetown being a Walsh Scholar at Georgetown, years old. and English, his second language, and that is a very big deal. Will America be stronger if he goes translating into English for those who During her time at Georgetown, away? don’t speak Spanish. He cleaned up the Cristina has interned at the U.S. House I don’t think so, no. church before and after Sunday service. of Representatives and piloted a col- We have another Georgetowner here: The thing about the church that is in- lege mentorship program at a local Luis Gonzalez. When Luis was 8 years teresting, I just recently—and I won’t high school. In addition to this, she old, his family came to the United read it again right now, but the United finds time to work two part-time jobs. States from Mexico. Luis had a dif- States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ How many hours do you have in a ficult childhood in Santa Ana, Cali- statement I read from His Holiness day, Cristina? fornia. After his parents separated, he about immigrants when he was here in She has also dedicated two of her un- lived with his mother in a car garage the Capitol—but I also mentioned Dr. dergraduate summers during the school for several years. Then, after his moth- Sam Rodriguez and other leaders in the year to volunteer as a teacher in er remarried, Luis lived with an abu- evangelical community who have been Miami and in San Francisco. sive stepfather. so outspoken on protecting our In both these positions, she works But Luis overcame these cir- DREAMers. with high-achieving, low-income stu- cumstances and became an excellent I know we all go to church services dents providing support for their path student. He graduated high school in every week. I mean, that is what I to college. You see, Cristina’s dream is the top 1 percent of his class—now that hear. I go to a lot of different places be- to be a teacher. is a 1 percent we like to talk about— cause I travel around the country. And She will graduate from Georgetown with a 4.69 GPA, and he passed all nine more and more around the country, soon. She has been accepted to Teach advanced placement exams that he and in my own community in Cali- For America, a national nonprofit or- took. fornia, more and more of our parish- ganization that places Talent Regents Luis was also very involved in extra- ioners are from the Philippines or from graduates in urban and rural schools. curricular and volunteer activities. He Latin America. So a lot of the future of Teach For America has 190 teachers was the secretary of the school’s—here the church—by the way, in one of the who are DACA DREAMers and are it is again—National Honor Society churches I go to in California, our pas- teaching our children across the coun- chapter. Luis helped organize an anti- tor was from Nigeria. In my church in try. bullying campaign at a local elemen- San Francisco, one of our priests was Is that beautiful? tary school. He created a mentorship from the Philippines. The idea of pa- In any event, Cristina is scheduled to program to help incoming freshmen at rishioners being more diverse is also start the program next summer and his high school. the clergy being more diverse. start teaching next fall, but without On Saturdays, instead of relaxing, he So when we talk about faith and DACA or the Dream Act, Cristina and volunteered to tutor other students in building faith and strong faith in our

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:25 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.070 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H947 country, recognize how faith-filled so create my own future on the same tional Honor Society, the resounding many of these families are who come to grounds as any other student. I would theme of all of this, a member of the our country. Again, our motto is ‘‘In like to be judged upon my qualities as National Honor Society. God We Trust.’’ It is wonderful to see a person than what papers I happen to She played soccer, tennis, and bas- their faith in God, their faith in Amer- have in my hand. I hope to be a com- ketball, and she was a member of the ica, their faith in the future, their fair puter programmer and begin earning student government, the school news- in themselves, their faith in their fami- my living as a contributing member of paper, the chess club and the yearbook lies, and their faith that gives them America’s society.’’ club. hope, the faith in the goodness of oth- Consider this: every year, thousands Lara went to Northeastern Illinois ers, as I said, hope, sitting right there of foreign computer programmers come University. In college, she worked two between faith and charity. to the United States as temporary jobs to pay for her college tuition. So just, again, that spark of divinity guest workers under H–1B visas. It Keep in mind, she is ineligible for Fed- that we all have, we have to act upon. makes no sense to deport a homegrown eral financial assistance because of her We will talk about Benita Veliz. talent, like Javier, when American immigration status. In 2006, Lara grad- Benita was brought to the United companies are importing foreign com- uated with honors with a major in jus- States by her parents when she was puter specialists. Javier and other tice studies; but then she was stuck. only 8. She graduated as the valedic- DREAMers have so much to contribute Lara wanted to become a lawyer but torian of her high school class at the to our country. was unable to pursue this dream, Mr. age of 16. She received a full scholar- God bless you, Javier. Speaker, because she was undocu- ship to St. Mary’s University. She This is a story from TERRI SEWELL. mented. graduated from the honors program Mr. Speaker, I thank TERRI SEWELL Six long years later, in 2012, Presi- with a double major in biology and so- for joining us. dent Obama established DACA, and ciology. Her honors thesis was on the TERRI brings this story of a DREAM- Lara’s life changed. In 2013, Lara re- Dream Act. er from Alabama. Fernanda Herrera ceived DACA and enrolled in law school She wrote: ‘‘I can’t wait to be able to said: ‘‘I came to the U.S. when I was 21⁄2 at Southern Illinois University. In law give back to the community that has and grew up in Gadsden, Alabama, school, Lara won the moot court com- given me so much. I was recently asked where I attended Gadsden City High petition. She won the moot court com- to sing the national anthem for both School and played the flute in the petition—how about that—and was se- the United States and Mexico at a band, serving as a section leader for 2 lected for the Order of Barristers, a Cinco de Mayo community assembly. years. legal honor society. Without missing a beat, I quickly belt- This spring, 10 years after she grad- b 1530 ed out the Star Spangled Banner. I uated from college, Lara received her then realized that I had no idea how to ‘‘I moved to Birmingham in 2013 to law degree. Over the summer, she sing the Mexican national anthem. I attend Samford University as an honor passed her bar exam; and just last am American. My dream is American. student majoring in International Re- month, Lara received her Illinois law It is time to make our dreams a re- lations. I graduated this past May, license, which she is proudly holding in ality. It is time to pass the Dream with thousands out in loans for my de- this picture. Act.’’ gree and am hoping to attend law You see, Lara never gave up on her We have some photos. school. dream of becoming a lawyer, and This is Javier Cuan-Martinez. Javier ‘‘My parents and U.S.-born little thanks to DACA and her hard work, was only 4 years old when his family brother live in Ragland, where they this dream has become a reality. Now brought him to the United States from own a small Mexican restaurant under Lara is planning a career in public in- Mexico. Javier went to elementary my name since I am the only person of terest law. She says: ‘‘I would like to school in Texas, and then moved to age and with a Social Security num- be of service to others.’’ Temecula, California. ber.’’ In her letter, she says: ‘‘DACA has Javier was an excellent student, who They own it under that. opened the door.’’ was very involved in extracurricular ‘‘I recently had a car wreck that put I keep hearing that theme: open the and volunteer activities as the member me $40,000 further into debt. If DACA is door, open the door. Let the Speaker of the National Honor Society and was taken away, I will not be able to work please open the door so we can have named Riverside County’s Student of to pay back my loans, my hospital that debate here, as MITCH MCCONNELL the Month. debt, my car payments, or my debt has done in the Senate. He also received an award from the from helping my parents with their Lara writes: ‘‘DACA has opened the College Board’s National Hispanic Rec- restaurant. Without a clean Dream door to possibilities that were beyond ognition Program, which is given to Act, my U.S. citizen brother is forced my reach. DACA represents a better only 5,000 of the 250,000 Hispanic stu- to choose between having his sister or life and the opportunity to achieve the dents who take the test. his parents here.’’ American Dream. DACA has given me Javier was a member of the math Oh, we do have a picture here. How the freedom to live without fear. I now club and a drum major in the school’s lovely. How cute the little brother is. have the confidence to know that my marching band. He volunteers in his How lovely. hard work, dedication, and achieve- town’s soup kitchen for the homeless, I thank TERRI SEWELL for that and ments can be recognized. I will con- and received the President of the thank her for her extraordinary leader- tinue to work hard and lead by the ex- United States Volunteer Service ship from Alabama about a DREAMer. ample of what I can accomplish if Award. The DREAMers are all over our coun- given the opportunity.’’ Javier didn’t know he was undocu- try, Mr. Speaker. They are a blessing Lara and other DREAMers have so mented until he was applying for col- so across the board. much to contribute to our country. lege and learned that he was ineligible From the heartland of America, we Will America be a stronger country if for Federal financial assistance. have many from Michigan, from Illi- we deport Lara? I don’t think so. Thanks to his academic achievements, nois, from Alabama, of course Texas This is from Representative ENGEL Javier was accepted at Harvard Univer- heartland as well, but it is also a bor- from New York; it is one of his con- sity. He is now majoring in computer der State. stituents. science. He is also a member of the Lara Alvarado was 8 years old. Her ‘‘My name is Diana, a constituent of Harvard Computer Society and Har- family brought her to the United yours from Yonkers, New York. I am a vard’s marching band. Thanks to States from Mexico. She grew up in DACA recipient who is currently in DACA, Javier is supporting himself by Chicago, Illinois. In high school, Lara limbo not knowing what my future working as a web developer. was an excellent student and was in- holds. I was able to obtain a driver’s li- Javier sent his letter. He wrote: volved in many extracurricular and cense and put myself through tech ‘‘DACA doesn’t give me an advantage. volunteer activities. She was a member school where I obtained my EMT li- Rather, it gives me the opportunity to of the National Honor Society—the Na- cense. I also obtained phlebotomy and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:18 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.072 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H948 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 EKG certifications, which have cer- grant, she is not eligible for Federal fi- turned to school and reignited my pas- tified me to work in the emergency nancial assistance, and Arizona law sion for studying. Because of DACA, I room. If Congress approves a path to prohibits State financial assistance to want to do whatever I can to con- citizenship, I would be able to accom- DREAMers like Barbara and her sister. tribute to my country.’’ plish so much more to give back to my During her freshman year in high In his senior year in high school, he family and community. I love what I school, the mentor told her that, as a turned his life around; he improved his am doing and do not want to lose all DREAMer: ‘‘You’re going to have to grades; very active in the community, that I have worked for. Thank you for try harder than everyone else.’’ She head of the school fundraising com- taking the time to read my message. says: ‘‘Those words confirmed what I mittee, and volunteered with the men- Sincerely, Diana.’’ had known all along. Although I was toring program. He also worked full Another from Congressman ENGEL, a only starting high school, I began to time to support himself and his family. constituent. dread what most students anticipate He is in his sophomore year in Hon- ‘‘My name is Justa, from the Bronx, with excitement, graduation day. What ors College at the University of Illinois New York. I applied for DACA in July if I got into my dream school, but I in Chicago. He has a double major in after finding out from an ICE officer couldn’t go because I couldn’t afford psychology and political science. He that I had 60 days to leave the country it?’’ has a perfect 4.0 grade point average. or face deportation. I am also about to In high school, Barbara was an excel- He is involved with student govern- lose my job because I have not received lent student and was involved in many ment, and leads a recreational bike my new EAD card. DACA is my only extracurricular and volunteer activi- club. hope.’’ ties. She was a member of the Aca- Every week, he delivers food from the Elizabeth, again from ELIOT ENGEL, demic Decathlon team for 4 years and college dining hall to a homeless shel- from Yonkers. She writes to Congress: was a team captain during her senior ter. He mentors middle school stu- ‘‘I am contacting you because I sub- year. She was a member of the student dents. He is a part-time security guard mitted my initial DACA application government, the yearbook club, the at local events. He dreams of working earlier in 2017 and completed my bio- homecoming court; she volunteered to in Chicago city government. He gives metrics in April. I have yet to receive tutor middle school students and hope to people who need it to turn any other guidance. I humbly ask if worked part-time to save money for their lives around. Now he wants to there’s any way that you can help me her education. give back to the city and country he out. I am absolutely heartbroken and Barbara also participated in a num- loves. in deep emotional stress because of ev- ber of programs at Arizona State Uni- I do note that we will have an oppor- erything that is going on at the mo- versity, including the Walter Cronkite tunity to hear from the Vice President. ment with DACA. I have two children journalism institute. She recorded a Do we have to have the vote here first in 4th and 6th grades. I would not be story about her life, and it was aired before Members can go—the floor vote able to imagine my life without them. around the country on National Public will occur soon after I yield back. I I arrived in the U.S. when I was 9 Radio. This experience sparked her in- have no intention of yielding back, Mr. months old and am now 28. I have terest in journalism and led to an in- Speaker. I have a lot more. called USCIS, and the only information ternship at KJZZ, the Phoenix affiliate Do we know yet if there is any possi- they provided was the one already on of National Public Radio. bility of a Special Order later? We their website. I just asked if it was pos- Last year, Barbara graduated as val- asked about 3 hours ago. There are sible to request an inquiry, and they edictorian of her high school with a 4.5 other Members to participate. said it wouldn’t be possible. I just had GPA. As a result of her accomplish- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. to wait.’’ ments, Barbara was accepted at Dart- HARPER). The gentlewoman from Cali- Another one, Stephanie. Stephanie is mouth College, an Ivy League school, fornia is free to consult with leadership the girlfriend of an unnamed DREAMer where she is now a sophomore—a great on that issue. in ELIOT ENGEL’s district. ‘‘I write to Ivy League school. Ms. PELOSI. Well, that is what we you today about DACA. My boyfriend Barbara writes: ‘‘I’m very grateful asked earlier, and we had made that is a DACA recipient. He is a building for DACA allowing me to work and not overture but never did get an answer engineer who lives in New Rochelle, be deported to a country I didn’t know back. New York. He is a high school graduate and have not been since I was 5. Just We have been joined by Congress- and has his associate’s degree. He has like thousands of other undocumented woman JUDY CHU who, as I mentioned no criminal record. He pays taxes yet students, I have grown and become ac- earlier, is the chair of the Congres- reaps none of the benefits available to customed to the culture here; this is sional Asian Pacific American Caucus, citizens, welfare, Social Security, et where I belong. I want to be a contrib- a leader fighting for family fairness cetera. He is a good person from a good uting member of society, as I have and the issue of family unification in family. I am terrified that Congress proven in my 13 years.’’ any of our immigration discussions; will not be able to come to an agree- As we know, Barbara and DREAMers Congresswoman NITA LOWEY, our rank- ment over DACA and his safety will have so much to contribute to our ing member on appropriations and real- hang in the balance; that he could be country. ly central to all the discussion this is sent back to a country he barely We have a little boy here, Aciel. He about, about the appropriations bill knows. I understand that you are was a 5-year-old boy. His family that will come back from the Senate. against the decision to end DACA, but brought him to the United States from It will come back from the Senate I beg you, please do not party lines and Mexico. He grew up on the north side of with a promise from their leader, bargaining chips get in the way of fix- Chicago. We have got a lot of Chicago, MITCH MCCONNELL, that we would— ing this. Do whatever is necessary. a lot of New Jersey here. Aciel was a that they, in the Senate, would have a This has been a horrible day, but, in 6 bright child, but when he learned that vote on a DREAMers bill to be debated, months, it could get so much worse.’’ he was undocumented, his life took a and the chips will fall where they may. I thank ELIOT ENGEL for giving us downturn. He was failing his classes We are simply asking the Speaker for those stories from his district. and dropped out of high school for 6 the same opportunity. This is from Barbara. In 2002, when months. So I thank Mrs. LOWEY for her lead- Barbara was 5 years old, her family He wrote: ‘‘I felt that because of my ership. Congresswoman ROYBAL- brought her to the United States from status I had no future. As a result, my ALLARD, as I mentioned earlier, was Mexico. Barbara grew up in Phoenix, grades and attendance plummeted, and the original—I called her the god- Arizona, and she knew she would face I struggled to do anything productive.’’ mother—of the DREAM Act. She had challenges because she was a DREAM- Then, in 2012, President Obama an- the original bill, and then she joined er. nounced DACA and everything changed with Senator DURBIN in advancing it in Her older sister had been accepted at for him. Here is how Aciel explained it. 2001. a State university but could not afford ‘‘DACA meant I had a future worth Congressman HAKEEM JEFFRIES, part to attend. As an undocumented immi- fighting for and, because of that, I re- of our communications group on this

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Congressman GONZALEZ from Texas Leydy says: ‘‘I know that my parents Katherine says: ‘‘I’m very grateful who knows firsthand the border, the moving to the States was extremely for all the things this country has done challenges that we face; Congressman horrifying and leaving everything be- for me, but I think it’s not their turn JOE KENNEDY from Massachusetts, hind was difficult, but it makes me feel to see what I have done for them, to again, a strong supporter, mentioned better knowing that my future here see everything that I’ve accomplished: again in his response to the President. was brighter than the one I could’ve the awards, the high GPAs, and all the I mentioned ADAM SCHIFF earlier ever had in Mexico. amazing people that are DACA recipi- about his being involved in our discus- ‘‘Regardless of not having enough ents. The process you have to go sions and our earlier meetings today on food on the table, not having help on through and the strictness to obtain the subject; and Congresswoman my homework, not having any re- DACA is so hard. If you have just a lit- HANABUSA from Hawaii, of course, very sources to help me apply to college, I tle detail on your record, that’s it, involved in this issue, as you would managed and got accepted to college you’re out. suspect. and moved hours away from home with ‘‘We’re some of America’s best. And I So I thank so many of our colleagues the purpose of bettering myself and my want to know why they are taking this for joining here on the floor. I don’t family.’’ away from us. know if they have—I have so many This is really the American Dream ‘‘Why don’t you want us here? Don’t more, but I didn’t know if they had story over and over again. you want people with degrees? Don’t She references when DACA was cre- any. These are from my colleagues. you want people with cool internships ated, she had stability, if only tempo- This is my stack, but these are from and cool jobs? Why don’t you want me rarily, in America, the only country my colleagues; so I will go to those. here? she knows. By repealing DACA, her ‘‘Our parents are original DREAMers, From Congresswoman LOWEY, this is hopes and aspirations were forced into and we’re here trying to accomplish a letter from a DREAMer to Congress- another place. their dreams. Please be able to see that woman NITA LOWEY. ‘‘I want to thank Leydy says: ‘‘I do not have any clear for yourselves.’’ you for your support of DACA. I know memories of Mexico, and I do not know So this is that same thing about par- you are doing all you can to fight anyone in Mexico. My entire life is in ents. heartless legislation and initiatives the United States. Here is where I have Mr. HOYER has a story from Ivy Teng that would deport a potential 800,000 made my life for myself, and taking Lei, a Chinese American DACA recipi- young people. I am 28 years old, and I that away from me is inhumane. This ent raised in Manhattan’s Chinatown. am one of the DREAMers, having come Nation is the only one that I aspire to She is the youngest of three and be- to America from El Salvador when I contribute to and the only one I belong came the second to graduate college in was 15 years old. to.’’ her family from Baruch College. ‘‘I attended school in Ramapo, New Graciela Nunez is a 22-year-old stu- Today, she continues to devote her free York, and now make my home with my dent, a Washington graduate, who time to empowering underserved com- wife in Pearl River. Life in El Sal- works at a humanitarian law firm. She munities. She chairs the Professional vador, where I was born, was dangerous is a driven person with a desire to give Leadership Council on Asian American and brutal, which is why my father back, and she has big ambitions for the Federation, hosts seminars and work- moved us to America in 2005.’’ future. She is also a DREAMer and shops on professional and cultural en- And this is a story we have heard DACA recipient who was born in Ven- gagement activities. She is now an over and over. ezuela. independent consultant for small busi- ‘‘I am grateful every day for all the When Graciela was 7 years old, her ness, nonprofits, and immigrant orga- opportunities presented to me here. I parents moved. They told her that her nizations. She just devotes so much of currently work as a technology spe- family was going to the U.S. to visit her free time to empowering under- cialist at Apple and feel it is so impor- Disney World on a short vacation. Only served communities. tant to continue achieving, setting as she got off the plane did she realize Ivy Teng Lei’s story is just what this goals, and giving back to my commu- that she was not going back to Ven- country needs. I thank Mr. HOYER for nity.’’ ezuela. They were fleeing the Chavez referring her to us. She is a Chinese b 1545 regime, and they were in the United American. States to stay. Jung Bin Cho’s family emigrated to ‘‘It would break my heart to lose my This is the only country Graciela the United States in 2001 from South home and life here in New York. knows. She, like 1.8 million other Korea. They decided to leave to attain ‘‘The prognosis on DACA seems to be DREAMers in this country, has built the American Dream for their children. changing daily, adding to growing un- her life here. She is as American as it He enrolled in first grade in Virginia, certainty. My status expires in Novem- gets. A piece of paper could not negate and, in 2016, proudly graduated from ber. her participation in all of the things Virginia Tech. ‘‘What will my future be? that make this country great. Graciela Jung Cho says: ‘‘The U.S. is the only ‘‘I am reaching out to you to ask if I feels little connection to Venezuela. home I know. Because of DACA, I could meet with you at one of your She doesn’t know how many Presidents worked and could save money to help local offices to discuss DACA. that country has had. She is unfamiliar pay for college. Where I live in North- ‘‘My employer has offered support with the geography, but she has got a ern Virginia, you need a car to get any- and legal assistance. . . .’’ 5 in AP U.S. history and she can talk where. Because of DACA, I can drive, That is from Hugo Alexander Acosta about the documents that built this giving my family rides or to study.’’ Mazariego. Nation with more detail than any of Anyway, these are all just very per- And as I said earlier, our business us. sonal stories about the struggles, the community has been superlative in all In Graciela’s words, she has been liv- obstacles, but the optimism, the deter- of this. ing under constant heightened stress mination, and the hope that all of Representative TORRES sent a story because of the fate of DACA. And we these people have. Isn’t that what from Leydy Rangel: ‘‘My name is know what that program is about. America is about? America is about op- Leydy Rangel, and I have lived in the Graciela says DACA has let people timism and hope. United States since I was 8. I am now know that undocumented youth have This one is from Representative ESTY 22. In June, I graduated from Cal Poly potential. It gives them upward social about Carolina Bortolleto. She had Pomona, where I earned a degree in mobility and a way out. It allows other testimony earlier. ELIZABETH journalism. I have always known I am DREAMers to do exactly what their ESTY from Connecticut has been a undocumented because I remember the name implies: to dream for a better life champion on this issue, and she sends first day of elementary school and how and to not let paper limit potential. this other testimony. kids pointed out my brown skin so JIMMY PANETTA has sent us a story Carolina says: ‘‘I was born in Brazil much.’’ from Katherine from Salinas. I men- and moved to the U.S. with my family

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It was a lot of to Western Connecticut State Univer- Aldo currently serves as the policy responsibility for a young undocu- sity, where I graduated in 2010 with a director for the Oregon Latino Health mented kid.’’ degree in biology. In 2010, I cofounded a Coalition, where he is part of a team In addition to this responsibility, local organization working for the that helped pass State legislation that Valentina was an excellent student. rights of undocumented students in extends health coverage to undocu- She received the President’s Education Connecticut. mented children in Oregon. Award twice, once from President Bush ‘‘I was able to buy my first car and God bless you for that, Aldo. and once from President Obama. In obtain a driver’s license. At the end of We have been joined by Congressman high school, she was an honors grad- 2014, I suffered a severe medical emer- ERIC SWALWELL from California, and uate in advanced placement, a leader gency and spent 8 months in the hos- we thank him for his leadership on this in student government, a member of pital. But due to DACA, I was able to very important issue working with the the Beta Club. get a job that offered health insurance Future Forum, visiting with DREAM- Somehow Valentina found time to be with the national organization United ers all over the country. the president of the school’s environ- We Dream.’’ Also, KEITH ELLISON joined us, who I mental group and manager of the var- Here we are again with United We referenced earlier his testimony from sity basketball team. Dream. his constituent in Minnesota as well. They have so many hours in a day, Carolina says: ‘‘Now my DACA ex- Mr. HOYER has another testimony these DREAMers. She was a very ac- pires on March 2019, and, with it, I will from Chirayu Patel, an Indian Amer- complished student, but Georgia State lose my health insurance that I need to ican who arrived here when he was 11 law bans undocumenteds from attend- live.’’ years old. For 23 years he has lived ing the State’s top public universities. Again, these stories go on and on. I here. He was from Gujarat. As a result, Valentina applied and was think, really, the point is that these Isn’t that where the Prime Minister accepted to Dartmouth College in Han- young people have accomplished things is from in India? over, New Hampshire. that I think many of us would not have Chirayu has spent years and thou- Congratulations, Valentina. been able to accomplish. Perhaps some. sands of dollars to resolve our status. She is now a sophomore there. To I give everyone credit for obstacles He says: ‘‘However, due to incorrect fil- help pay her tuition, she works as a they have overcome. But if you have ing by a notary that took advantage of projectionist at a theater, as an un- all of the obstacles of economic dis- my father’s lack of knowledge about documented student. She still finds advantage, plus being undocumented, U.S. immigration process, our current time to volunteer and mentor children. uncertainty in your family, and all the lawyer has said that there is simply no In her letter, she wrote: ‘‘I am be- emotional unrest that that causes, and way for us to get right with the law un- yond grateful because, by receiving to see them in the National Honor So- less there is a change in law by the DACA, the U.S. has given me an oppor- ciety, the top 1 percent, the top 10 per- Congress.’’ tunity to give back to this country cent, the top 5 percent of their classes, Again, I won’t read the whole state- that has given me so much. This is my giving back, volunteering over and ment, but Chirayu says: ‘‘Over the country. I have worked hard to prove over again in their communities, these years, our family has built a life here myself worthy in the eyes of my Amer- are the best of the best. They are so and given back to the only country we ican counterparts, and knowing that I fabulous. know as home. My parents have paid am in a weird limbo in regards to my Again, their parents were so coura- income taxes, property taxes, and even legal status doesn’t make me sleep any geous. They had a dream for their chil- business taxes. I was also the first per- easier. My name is registered with the dren, and some of these children are son in my family to graduate from col- government, so I might be deported if now reflecting that they are living lege. The introduction of DACA in 2012 they decide to end DACA.’’ their parents’ dream for them. And was a consequential day for me. It would be so sad if she were de- that is what America has always been ‘‘The President’s decision to rescind ported back to Uruguay, a country about. the DACA program was a punch in the where she hasn’t lived since she was 6 Mr. Speaker, I have plenty more sto- gut, and I felt the floor disappear under years old. I don’t think our country ries to tell. Some of them submitted by my feet.’’ would be stronger without that. our colleagues, but I know that there is Chirayu says: Oscar Cornejo, Jr., was 5 years old supposed to be a vote sometime soon. After 23 years, my life may be destroyed when his family came to the United Is that correct? Or can we just go on? overnight. I continue to raise awareness on States from Mexico. He grew up in Mr. Speaker, may I ask what the this issue by sharing our stories and asking Park City, a small northern suburb of order of things is here? Do I have just our families, friends, and neighbors to con- Chicago. He became an excellent stu- time to go on and on? Or is there a vote tinue pushing Congress. In return, we hope dent in high school. He was a member that Congress can deliver. being called? Or what? of, again, the National Honor Society, The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. RICE I thank Mr. HOYER for submitting and he was an Illinois State Scholar. of South Carolina). The House is cur- that. He received several advanced place- rently considering H.R. 1153. Mr. SWALWELL’s testimony is from ment awards. He graduated magna cum Ms. PELOSI. Aldo Solano was at the Jose from Hayward, California. He laude. State of the Union address. He was the came to the United States as a child What he says is: ‘‘My parents always guest of Congressman EARL BLU- from Mexico. He has only pledged alle- instilled in me the value of an edu- MENAUER. Aldo moved from Mexico giance to the United States of Amer- cation, which is one of the main rea- when he was 6. He grew up in one of the ica. He is headed to college soon and sons they decided to leave everything Farmworker Housing Development wants to be a police officer in the only in Mexico and come to the United Corporation’s affordable housing com- country he has called home. States. I dedicate myself to my edu- munities in Woodburn, Oregon. At 15, Thank you, Mr. SWALWELL, for bring- cation to honor the sacrifices my par- he started volunteering at FHDC’s ing that to our attention. ents made.’’ afterschool program and later interned Valentina Garcia Gonzalez was only 6 for its Funds Development Depart- years old when her family brought her b 1600 ment, creating his pathway to a career to the United States from Uruguay. Because of his outstanding academic in community development and a pas- She grew up in the suburbs of Atlanta, achievements, he was admitted to sion for social equity. Georgia. She was a bright child and Dartmouth. He is the first member of

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Thank you for submitting Oscar’s When it came time to apply for col- Naomi is now working on her bach- story. leges, Maricela knew she wanted to elor’s degree at Middle Tennessee State He says: ‘‘When I received my DACA, stay close to her family in the only University. In her spare time, she is the threat of deportation had been lift- home she’d ever known, Wisconsin. She also involved in her community doing ed and I felt I could actually achieve applied to many local schools and was all kinds of wonderful things. my dreams. DACA has allowed me to offered a full-tuition scholarship to She says: ‘‘DACA has meant the op- work for the first time, and the money Marquette University in Milwaukee. portunity of a lifetime for my aca- I earn goes to support my education At Marquette, Maricela was on the demic and professional career. As a and my family.’’ dean’s list and was a double major in student at Smyrna High School, driv- ing past the Nissan plant motivated me Again, a valuable asset. political science and English lit- to be a better student with hopes of, Let me just recap a little bit of this, erature. She also worked part-time as a one day, being part of a company that Mr. Speaker. waitress to support herself and her is highly regarded in my community. So many of our DREAMers are inter- family. However, without proper work author- ested in becoming doctors and Maricela became involved in advo- ization, that goal seemed far-fetched. healthcare professionals, whether it be cating for immigration reform. In De- Today, it is a reality for me.’’ researchers, nurses, or other cember 2010, Maricela was here in the So, hopefully, we can continue to healthcare professionals. Senate gallery, along with hundreds of make that a reality for Naomi I just want to read once again this other DREAMers, when the Senate Florentino, and I submit her statement statement from the Association of failed to pass the DREAM Act due to a for the RECORD. American Medical Colleges: Republican filibuster. I wish I could excuse my colleagues, The Association of American Medical I remind that, just shortly before but they have all been such champions Colleges reports that the Nation’s doc- that, we passed it in the House. It got on this issue, and their dedication to it tor shortage will rise to between 40,000 over 50 votes in the Senate, but it did is obviously demonstrated here, as it is and 105,000 by the year 2030. Both the not get to the 60th vote. She came to with some of those who can’t be with American Medical Association and the raise concerns about the DREAMers us right now. Association of American Medical Col- again and again. This is another story that is about a leges warn that ending DACA will ex- She graduated with honors in her DREAMer, and I want to tell the story acerbate this physician shortage in the graduating class. She is now in grad- of how DACA has given one DREAMer United States, and they have urged uate school at Brandeis University in the chance to contribute to the coun- Congress to pass legislation to protect Boston. She plans to return to Mil- try she loves. DREAMers. waukee when she graduates. She wants This is Maria Ibarra-Frayre. Maria’s Listen to what the AMA says: ‘‘Esti- to become a public schoolteacher. parents brought her to the United mates have shown that the DACA ini- Maricela and other DREAMers have States from Mexico at 9 years old. She tiative could help introduce 5,400 pre- so much to contribute to our country. grew up in Detroit, Michigan, the viously ineligible physicians into the Could we use more public school- heartland. She was an excellent stu- U.S. healthcare system in the coming teachers like Maricela? I think so. dent who was dedicated to community decades to address these shortages and Would we be a stronger country if we service. ensure patient access to care. deported her? I don’t think so. In high school, she was a member of ‘‘Removing those with DACA status So we have another one from Mr. the National Honor Society—you keep will particularly create care shortages DURBIN. Her name is Naomi Florentino. hearing that, Mr. Speaker. I have been for rural and other underserved areas. Her parents brought her to the United here all day, but all day you have been . . . Without these physicians, the States from Mexico when she was 10 hearing members of the National AMA is concerned that the quality of years old. Naomi grew up in the town Honor Society—Key Club, and the care provided in these communities of Smyrna, Tennessee. school newspaper. She volunteered would be negatively impacted and that Naomi was an excellent student and twice a week tutoring middle school patient access to care will suffer.’’ active in her community. In high students and performed over 300 hours That is a quote. They are saying school, she was a member of the Na- of community service. She graduated there could be as many as 40,000 to over tional Honor Society, and she received with a 3.97 GPA and was admitted to double that number by 2030, and 5,400 Student of the Year awards for algebra the University of Michigan, but was unable to enroll at Michigan because of previously ineligible physicians come and art. She served on the student her immigration status. council and played on the varsity soc- to us by making DACA, by passing pro- She entered the University of Detroit tection for our DREAMers, 5,400 pre- cer team and the varsity track and Mercy, a private Catholic school. She viously ineligible physicians. That is field team. She was also a shot put and was elected vice president of the stu- quite remarkable. discus thrower. dent senate. She helped found Campus So when you see the need and you see These people are so accomplished, I Kitchen to take leftover meals to the the ambition and the vocation and the just don’t know how many hours they homeless—not to the homeless, but dedication, especially to help in under- have in the day. other people who have a hard time served areas, it is quite remarkable. Naomi’s dream was to become a ro- leaving home and needed meals to be This is another of Senator DURBIN’s. botics engineer. She participated in the brought to them. He wanted to introduce to the Senate a NASA Science, Engineering, Mathe- She participated in helping elderly DREAMer from Speaker RYAN’s home matics, and Aerospace Academy and couples, homeless people, et cetera, State of Wisconsin. Her name is performed so well that she won the and graduated valedictorian of her Maricela Aguilar. Next Generation Pioneer Award. class. Her options were limited because In 1995, when Maricela was 3 years She graduated high school with hon- of her immigration status. old, her mother brought her to the ors, but her immigration status limited When she got DACA, she wrote: United States with the hope of giving her. She didn’t give up. She took me- ‘‘DACA means showing the rest of the her a chance for a better life. chanical engineering courses at country, society, and my community Maricela’s family settled in Mil- Lipscomb University in Nashville. She what I can do. I have always known waukee. Maricela worked hard, and she then went to community college. In what I’m capable of, but DACA has al- excelled in school. the spring, she is graduating with an lowed me to show others that the in- During high school, she was on the associate’s degree in mechatronics vestment and opportunity that DACA honor roll and was a member of the Na- technology, a field that combines me- provides is worth it.’’

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:41 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.080 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H952 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 Maria and other DREAMers like her This is her story: ‘‘My family and I This is another one, a Sacramento have so much to contribute to our had migrated to the United States. State graduate that Congresswoman country. ‘‘The first six years of my life pales MATSUI submitted to us. Will America be a stronger country if in comparison to what I have been in- She said that DACA gave him peace we send Maria away? No, I don’t think troduced to within a few months of liv- of mind. He currently holds a master’s so, and I think you would agree. ing in the U.S. All I do know is that my degree and plans to pursue a doctoral JUAN VARGAS from California. I ac- clear, joyful memories started when we degree. He wants to work in the field of knowledged him earlier. He is here. moved to America. I was living in the education and is worried that the Congressman JUAN VARGAS, 51st Con- best country in the world, a place I President’s decision to rescind DACA gressional District, would like me to would call my home, and yet I didn’t will lead to less people becoming teach- read a statement from a constituent, even know it. ers. He said that he believes ‘‘there is former intern, and a DREAMer: ‘‘Fast-forward 27 years later, and something good in all of us.’’ Oswaldo My name is name Jacqueline Olivares. I today my family sit here in deporta- deserves to continue to fulfill his was brought to the United States at age 2. tion proceedings, given 45 days to pack dreams in his community. Now, you know, age 2. up their lives and leave. The past few Gustavo, also from Sac State, came I was raised in San Diego and never felt weeks have been the most painful, fear- to the United States at the age of 7 different from anyone else. I speak the lan- ful, helpless, and hopeless days of my with his brothers and parents. guage and know the culture. I knew I had no life.’’ He said: ‘‘I am happy to say that my parents’ courage and willingness to papers, but I never really knew what that b 1615 meant. I didn’t realize the importance of risk it all for their children’s future those documents until I wanted to go to col- ‘‘My parents and sisters are being de- was worth it.’’ lege. ported, and I most likely have a few Gustavo recently graduated from I always knew I wanted to move forward months left before I will be deported as Sacramento State with a bachelor’s in with my education. I was an avid student in well. I am considered a DREAMer, psychology and a minor in counseling high school and was always encouraged to probably one of the oldest DREAMers apply to universities because I had the and would like to pursue a master’s de- grades to compete. Then my parents told me in the United States; had my oldest sis- gree. Gustavo said: ‘‘We as DREAMers that it wasn’t a possibility. I realized I was ter been eligible, she would have been are here to build a better society, to different. I would always ask myself: Why the oldest of us DREAMers. change the cycle of our family’s strug- me? But when DACA was announced in 2012, ‘‘However, I was the only one of the gles, to better ourselves, to help build it gave me relief. I am proud to call myself three to be granted protection with bridges amongst society and to be edu- a DREAMer. DACA, and now my family has been or- cated individuals with the hunger of Jacqueline says: dered to leave the United States with a striving for a better tomorrow.’’ I am proud to call myself a DREAMer. 10-year ban on reentry.’’ Another from Congresswoman MAT- DACA gave me hope, opportunity, and moti- The 10-year ban on reentry—you are SUI. Jesus is a DREAMer and DACA re- vation, and that won’t be taken away. probably familiar with this, Mr. Speak- cipient from Sacramento who was My name is Jacqueline Olivares, and er—this 10-year ban is just deadly. brought to this country by his mother DREAMers are American, too. ‘‘I can’t separate from my family and at the age of 8. He is also a full-time I thank Mr. VARGAS for that. have them do this on their own. My English professor at Sacramento City Another one, from KEITH ELLISON family and I are one cohesive unit— College and part-time lecturer at Sac- from Minnesota: family always stick together, it’s what ramento State University. Itzel came to the United States when we believe in, so there is no choice but He has devoted himself to the class- she was only 15 years old. Despite ini- to go with my family, to help each room, oftentimes working with young tial language difficulties, she worked other reconstruct what we built here DREAMers. hard and graduated from high school over the last 27 years. At this point, I He said: ‘‘I am honored to have the with honors. She completed one semes- don’t know what to do. What am I sup- opportunity to teach the youth of my ter of college after high school, but posed to do? We have exhausted all of community, to empower the reentry economic difficulties forced her to our options and met failure at each students, and to help improve the cul- focus on work instead. end. All I can do is leave it in God’s ture of both local campuses who gave However, when she was granted hands, pray for strength and guidance, me an education.’’ DACA in 2012, she got a better-paying and hope my prayers are heard with a Juana from Congresswoman MATSUI’s job, was able to go back to college, and miracle. district: ‘‘DACA has allowed me to feel graduated with honors. The last 2 ‘‘I understand that there are those protected from being deported, to feel years, Itzel has been working for the who commit horrible crimes and accepted and acknowledged in this State of Minnesota as a senior court shouldn’t be given the opportunity to country we grew up in and love. My clerk. She bought a house and supports stay. However, for us as a family, we DACA status has provided me the op- her family. didn’t do anything to harm our coun- portunity to pursue my dreams like The week before DACA was termi- try. We went to school, educated our- many other people. nated Itzel applied for a job as a proba- selves, had good jobs, pushed our lim- ‘‘Thanks to DACA, I was able to work tion officer, her dream job, a probation its, helped others, are great Samari- and go to school. I just recently grad- officer. But the elimination of DACA tans’’—there we are with great Samari- uated from Sacramento State, this now makes that goal appear impos- tan again—‘‘pay and paid our taxes, spring 2017, with my B.A. in sociology. sible. and strive to better ourselves and our I graduated from high school in 2006 Itzel was also planning to start a country and the community we live in. and had to put my dreams aside be- master’s degree in criminal justice ‘‘As for my family and I, no matter cause I was not able to continue my next semester. That, too, now seems the distance, no matter the 10-year education; but once I got DACA status, impossible. ban, no matter what . . . our heart and I was able to go to a university. Now Itzel told me, ‘‘I don’t want to go spirit will always be here in the United that I just graduated and would like to back to dreaming of a better future. I States.’’ start my career, it would be horrible if want to be part of a better future for ‘‘ . . . the place I call home. I have my status was rescinded. me, for my family, and for my coun- spent the majority of my life here, and ‘‘I’ve been in the U.S. for 27 years. I try.’’ it has shaped me into the woman I am have never left America. I was born in Again and again, for our country. now.’’ Mexico but have no clue what it is like. I thank Mr. ELLISON and Itzel. These people are being deported, and The only place I know is California. From Congresswoman MATSUI of that is why we need to have com- This is my home and all I know.’’ California, acknowledged earlier, an prehensive immigration reform to ad- From Representative LOFGREN, whom unnamed DREAMer from her district dress the bigger issue. But we can do I mentioned earlier, who has been such says: ‘‘September 1990 my life would something today to at least make a champion on the Judiciary Com- change forever.’’ whole the children. mittee on this, a former chair of the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:41 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.081 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H953 Immigration and Border Security Sub- medical engineering major from Geor- In every one of these letters there is committee. She has taught immigra- gia Tech, and they have 3.6 GPA and 4.0 gratitude back to the United States for tion law. She has been an immigration GPA? Thanks to DACA, they have been what it has done for these people. lawyer. She knows it all. She has just working as computer engineers for a There is no sense of entitlement. It is been a tremendous leader and very Fortune 500 semiconductor company. all about working hard and paying dedicated advocate and champion. Jhon received DACA in 2012, while he back. That is why if we can just do this She submits this from Ms. Mandy was still a student at Georgia Tech. He piece which has urgency to it because Lau: ‘‘I wanted to take a moment to then worked for 2 years as a researcher it has a timetable that the President express my frustration with the repeal in a biomedical engineering lab at has put forth, just doing this piece of DACA. As an educator, I have seen Georgia Tech researching glaucoma, a would be the smart thing to do, to find how DACA has improved the lives of leading cause of blindness. In 2014, a solution that then builds trust in a the students and families in our com- Jhon graduated from Georgia Tech bipartisan way with transparency and munity here in San Jose. DACA has with a major in chemical and biologi- openness as to what it actually is been a resounding success, and this ad- cal engineering with highest honors— about. That is why we want people to ministration should not end this cru- highest honors in chemical and biologi- know this is who these people are. That cial program. Nearly 800,000 young men cal engineering from Georgia Tech. He is why they are called DREAMers. and women have been able to con- is now working as a process engineer That is why the name has persisted. tribute to their communities, to work, with a Fortune 500 company, too. We have been the country of the go to school, and to live their lives Both have written letters. Nelson American Dream forever. Yes, I agree without fear of being ripped away from wrote: ‘‘To me, DACA means an oppor- with the President. We are all DREAM- their families and from a country they tunity to be able to live my dreams and ers in America. This is part of the fu- consider home. contribute to society in ways that I ture. Of course, I think of my grand- Ms. Lau, Mandy that is, went on to could not have imagined. DACA means children as the future. They didn’t say: ‘‘Recently, I held a crying student that one of my life goals, owning my have to face the struggles that these who was disheartened that although own company, could be a possibility in young people are facing. God bless she worked hard to maintain her 4.0 the future. DACA means a chance. them for their courage to make the GPA throughout high school, fought DACA means the American Dream.’’ struggle, but it is, again, faith, family, stereotypes of gang affiliation, and re- Jhon wrote: ‘‘I consider an American faith in the future, faith in America, sisted negative influences to create to be someone who loves and whole- faith in themselves, faith which gives heartedly dedicates themselves to the better opportunities for herself and her people hope, hope because they have development of this country. From age family, there would also be a possi- faith in the kindness of others. Faith, 9, I have made the United States my bility that her dream of attending col- hope, charity, and hope is right there home, and it has made me the man I lege would no longer be an option. She in the middle. am today. I proudly call myself an I think that people who have hope, asked me how this was possible in the American.’’ much of it springs from their faith, and land of the free, how quickly an oppor- As I read some of these stories, you these clearly are people of great faith. tunity could be stripped from a person hear a recurring theme. Again, it is a That is why the Conference of Catholic with ambition, hopes, and dreams. theme about honoring the vows of our Bishops welcomes them. That is why DACA has given these young adults a Founders for a new order for the ages the evangelical community speaks so lifeline and hope for the future. Ending that every generation would take the clearly and passionately about the the program would be devastating for responsibility to make the future bet- need to protect them. DREAMers and their families. Without ter for future generations. That is ex- These are precious gems. They are DACA, these 800,000 DREAMers would actly what the families of these absolutely outstanding, and they write be subject to deportation to countries DREAMers did. their stories so eloquently that noth- they may not even remember and no Family members took risks, had ing any of us can say about the subject longer able to work legally to support courage, hope, optimism, and deter- is to even compare to the power of themselves and their families’’—in the mination to make the future better for their stories. place they call home, Mandy says. their families. Doing that for their For example, Johana was brought to ‘‘I have spent the majority of my life families, they were doing that for the United States from Venezuela when here. It shaped me into the woman I America, too. she was a child. She grew up in Boul- am.’’ You see such a similarity to previous der, Colorado. She played in her high So I thank the lady very much. These generations. I see it as an Italian school softball team, played viola in are beautiful, beautiful statements American—education, education, edu- the orchestra, and dreamed of becom- from some of these DACA recipients, cation, the key to upward mobility. ing a doctor. from our DREAMers, but it is even be- Talent, talent, talent, but not under- Here is what Johana said about her yond those who are recipients. utilized; educated to reach its full po- childhood: ‘‘I’ve become a Boulderite in Two brothers, Jhon Magdaleno and tential to reach the aspirations of all aspects of that word. That town, Nelson, his brother. Let me tell you these young people to do so in a way with those beautiful mountains, is about Nelson and Jhon. These brothers that is about giving back. truly my home.’’ In 2011, Johana grad- came to the United States from Ven- What you see here is what our fami- uated from the University of Colorado ezuela when Nelson was 11 and Jhon lies were all about that had come be- at Boulder with a double major in mo- was 9. They are both honor students at fore, that idealism and hope springs in lecular, cellular, and developmental bi- Lakeside High School in Atlanta, Geor- optimism and aspirations of immi- ology and psychology neuroscience. gia. Here is a picture of Nelson. grants coming to our country. That is They are so talented. But after grad- Jhon served with distinction in the why I always say that we are a great uating from college, Johana was unable Air Force Junior Officer Reserve Corps. country because we are constantly re- to pursue her dream of becoming a doc- He was the fourth highest ranking in a invigorated by immigrants coming to tor because she was undocumented. 175-cadet unit and commander of the our country. Their courage and com- Then in 2012, with DACA, she heard Air Honor Society in his unit. Here is a mitment to the American Dream which that Loyola University in Chicago picture of Jhon in his ROTC uniform. drew them here in the first place would accept students who had re- They went on to both become honor strengthens the American Dream. ceived DACA into its medical schools. I students at Georgia Tech University— These newcomers with all of that thank Loyola University and the Uni- Nelson in computer engineering, Jhon hope and aspiration make America versity of Chicago. in biomedical engineering with a 4.0. In more American when they come here. Like many States across the coun- 2012, he graduated from Georgia Tech That is why our country will not stag- try, Illinois faces a shortage of physi- with honors. nate. That is why our country will con- cians in some communities. The Loy- Do you understand being graduated tinue to blossom, to respect our tradi- ola University DACA program sees this with honors from Georgia Tech in com- tions, our past, and our sense of com- as an opportunity to address the prob- puter engineering, and Jhon in a bio- munity. lem. The State of Illinois has created a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:41 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.082 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H954 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 DACA loan program. Under this pro- the opportunity to do what I love to do DREAMer from his district, a Cana- gram, Loyola DACA med students can and to give back to the country that dian. receive loans to help cover the cost of has given me so much.’’ This is from TED LIEU. I thank him their medical education. For every Will America be a stronger country if for being here. year of loans, the DACA student must we deport Everardo Arias and others To TED LIEU, a testimonial from Rep- work a year in a medically underserved like him? Of course not. resentative LIEU’s district: area in Illinois—again giving back. This is from Congresswoman DIANA My name is Nicole, and I am a student at DEGETTE, who is with us. This is her UCLA. My parents brought me to the United b 1630 story from Colorado: States when I was 3 years old. Last fall, Johana went to med school Marco Dorado was born in Mexico For the 16 years that I have lived in the at Loyola. After graduating, she will and moved to Denver’s Globeville United States, I grew up like any other U.S. neighborhood at the age of 3. After at- citizen. I finished my K–12 schooling, and I stay in Illinois and help serve parts of volunteered around my community. Illinois that have a shortage of doctors. tending Thornton High School as a stu- For my first year of college, I was fortu- This is, of course, one of Senator dent in the International Bacca- nate enough to receive a substantial amount DURBIN’s constituents. laureate program, Marco attended the of financial aid from both UCLA and the Here is what Johana had to say: University of Colorado Boulder and California Dream Act. This aid alleviated my ‘‘When the year 2012 came along, my graduated as student body president parents from the fiscal burden of paying for life changed. My dreams of becoming a with a degree in finance. college. Although my tuition was covered, my par- doctor became a possibility again be- During his time at University of Col- orado, Marco received DACA, which ents still had to pay out of pocket to cover cause of DACA. I am now able to apply the expense of living on campus. The schol- to medical internship programs, take has allowed him to begin his profes- arship money I received for my sophomore the medical school entrance exam, and sional career while contributing back year was steadily decreased, which means apply to medical school, all because of to his community. Currently, Marco is there was more pressure on my parents to my DACA status. DACA has defined my the program coordinator for the Latino keep up with the growing cost. path. DACA has relit a fire within to Leadership Institute at the University To lighten this load, I acquired a full-time of Denver. summer job. I have become dependent on my succeed and to continue to pursue my job and my paycheck to pay off my school, dreams.’’ It is a beautiful story, once again demonstrating not only a commitment but how do I remain debt free if DACA is re- Will America be a stronger country if scinded? we deport Johana? I don’t think so. to education, but a commitment to Terminating DACA would turn my world This is Everardo Arias. Everardo was give back, become doctors, whatever, upside down, it will undo the progress I have brought to the United States from but leadership. Every one of these has made at UCLA and challenge my access to Mexico in 1997 when he was 7 years old. leadership, whether it is leadership in higher education. Just imagine these adorable children. the student government, leadership in Nicole goes on to say: He grew up in Costa Mesa, California, community activity, leadership on the Although I am grateful for the opportuni- and was an excellent student. He sports field, leadership in every pos- ties I have been given under DACA, like a dreamed of becoming a doctor. sible way in extracurricular activities Social Security number and relief from de- and the rest. Certainly, Marco has portation, I cannot reconcile that the very A doctor, again. government I one day hope to work for con- It was not until he applied to college demonstrated that trait typical of our DREAMers. tinues to exclude me from living the Amer- that Everardo learned that he was un- ican Dream. We have been joined by TED LIEU documented. He was accepted at the The President and U.S. legislators need to University of California, Riverside, but from California and Ms. BORDALLO look beyond their biases and stand up for the because of his immigration status, from Guam. I think we have acknowl- children who have continuously pledged alle- however, Everardo didn’t qualify for edged so many Members who have giance to the only country they have ever any Federal assistance. come and gone. I thank them all for called home. When Everardo was a sophomore, he their ongoing support of our DREAM- I thank TED LIEU for Nicole’s beau- met with a counselor, who told him he ers. tiful story. This is from an unknown DREAMer had no chance of becoming a doctor be- Mr. LIEU also submitted testimony to BRAD SHERMAN. It says: ‘‘I am writ- cause he was undocumented. But from Martin. Martin says, Mr. Speaker: ing this letter to you because I am Everardo didn’t give up on his dream. My name is Martin and I grew up in an un- fearful of what might happen next. I documented household. When I was in grade In 2012, he graduated from the Univer- am a Canadian who was brought here school, I loved listening to the news with my sity of California, Riverside with a when I was 11 years old. I am 28 now father. It became a daily routine to tune in chemistry major and research honors. and DACA has allowed me to come out to Univision or television after both of our Shortly after he graduated, DACA days of work. of the shadows.’’ It was extremely difficult for me to com- was established. He received DACA. He You hear that expression, ‘‘come out worked for a year as a mentor for at- prehend many issues discussed on main- of the shadows.’’ stream news, mainly because I generally risk students in his hometown of Costa ‘‘I have worked hard my whole life. I Mesa. The following year, through didn’t understand the content. However, one am a senior at UCLA majoring in civil particular word was mentioned almost every AmeriCorps, he worked as a health ed- engineering. I am an engineering in- day, ‘‘deportation.’’ ucator with several local clinics. He tern at the City of Stanton, and I also I had asked my father what it meant, but gave classes to hundreds of people in work at an animal emergency hospital he refused to answer, and so did my mother. both English and Spanish on topics on weekends. I often time go weeks After hearing the cold, hard truth from my teacher in grade school, I felt vulnerable for ranging from diabetes to family nutri- where I do not have a day off.’’ tion to depression. the first time in my life. I love this recurring animal assist- As I grew older, I became more and more During his year as a health educator, ance, too, that we hear. concerned. I walked to school every day wor- he applied and was accepted in medical ‘‘All I ask for is a fair shake, and ried that my parents might unexpectedly be school. He is currently in his first year with this new administration, I fear I taken away from me. at the Loyola University Chicago won’t be given that. I am not a crimi- How many times have we heard that School of Medicine. In his free time, he nal. I am not a danger to my commu- story? volunteers at a local clinic. He takes nity, nor am I someone trying to take Two hardworking parents that had lived time to teach medical Spanish to some advantage of public benefits. I am a and contributed to this country for more of his classmates. victim to a situation I had no say over. than 30 years might be forcibly removed Here is what he had to say about I want to do my share: pay taxes, in- from the United States. Now, I have never DACA: spire others, and any other help I can felt more fearful for the future of my family. ‘‘DACA changed my life. It opened provide. That word ‘‘fear’’ is terrifying, tears the door to the future ahead of me. If ‘‘Congressman, thank you for your in the eyes of the Statue of Liberty, it weren’t for DACA, I would not be time and for listening.’’ fear in the hearts of people who should here and I probably would not have I thank BRAD for submitting this en- be able to just make their contribution pursued medicine. I’m blessed to have thusiastic statement from an unknown to our country.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:41 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.084 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H955 HAKEEM JEFFRIES submits this testi- You have heard that sentence over Just 1 month after she graduated, mony from Ashelle. and over. President Obama announced the DACA Let me just once again thank my col- And although he grew up in New Jer- program. After she received DACA, leagues for being here. I wish you could sey, he would have been required to Karen found a job as a paralegal in a be reading these stories. I feel very pay out-of-state tuition. As a result, law firm in Chicago, where she has privileged to be reading so many of Pablo couldn’t afford to attend Rutgers been working for the last 2 years. This them, but the rules are that I cannot and instead enrolled in community col- fall, she will begin law school. yield on the special 1 minute. lege. Because he had taken college How about that? This is Ashelle King’s story: ‘‘I came courses when he was in high school, But if the House of Representatives to the United States from St. Lucia in Pablo was able to complete a 2-year as- have—if we could pass this bill, she the Caribbean at the age of 7, and I’ve sociate’s degree in only 1 year. would be able to attend law school and been living in Brooklyn for 16 years. I With his associate’s degree, Pablo become an attorney. Instead, she could currently attend Baruch College, where was able to transfer to Kean University be deported back to Mexico, a country I pay tuition out of my pocket by in New Jersey. In 2011, Pablo graduated she hasn’t lived in since she was a tod- working because I am not eligible for at the top of his class with a major in dler. certain types of aid for school. biology, summa cum laude. He received Here is what Karen had to say: ‘‘I am studying computer informa- an award for the highest grade point ‘‘DACA represents the values and her- tion systems and political science, and average in the biology department. He itage of this country of immigrants; it I want to apply my studies to help peo- was on the dean’s list every semester of was the right thing to do, and it has ple. I try to be involved in the commu- college and was a member of the honor changed my life by replacing fear with nity, which is why I interned in Mr. society Phi Kappa Phi. hope. This executive action gave me an Jeffries’ office.’’ After graduating from college, he was overwhelming sense of relief and hope. I again thank Mr. JEFFRIES for this unable to pursue his dream of becom- It lifted me from the shadows.’’ I just want to repeat her first sen- testimony. ing a doctor. Instead, he worked in a tence: ‘‘DACA represents the values ‘‘I felt like Mr. Jeffries had a real variety of manual labor jobs. Then, in and heritage of this country of immi- connection with the people, and I want- 2012, President Obama established grants; it was the right thing to do, ed to learn how I can assist and give DACA. Pablo heard that Loyola Uni- and it has changed my life by replacing back in that regard. Hopefully, I will versity of Chicago accepts students be graduating in the spring. I don’t fear with hope.’’ that receive DACA. Now, will America be strong if Karen want to be fearful of not graduating or Like many States across the coun- of leaving school because DACA ends. is deported? try, Illinois faces a shortage of physi- No, I don’t think so. ‘‘Fixing DACA is important to me be- cians in some communities. Loyola This one is from Representative FOS- cause I would not have been able to University’s DACA program is an op- TER. Mr. FOSTER is also from Illinois, work if it weren’t for DACA. Because I portunity to address this problem. and this was his State of the Union have a working permit, I am able to I have described this problem again guest, Ana Campa Castillo. She is a pay for school and be exposed to more and again, but let me say the State of student at Joliet Junior College in Jo- things in the U.S. You know, I’ve been Illinois has created a DACA loan pro- liet, Illinois. Ana is a graduate of here since a very young age, so I don’t gram. Under this program, Loyola’s Bolingbrook High School and is cur- know much about St. Lucia. I grew up DACA med students can receive loans rently pursuing an associate’s degree in Brooklyn. I know more about Brook- to cover the costs of their medical edu- in psychology at Joliet Junior College. lyn, and I want to stay here.’’ cation. For every year of loan, the stu- She serves as the vice president of I know that is music to the ears of dents must work for a year in a medi- Latinos Unidos, one of the largest stu- HAKEEM JEFFRIES, who is always brag- cally underserved area in Illinois. dent organizations. ging about Brooklyn. And, by the way, I said that earlier, but I just want I had the occasion to meet her when so is the Democratic leader in the Sen- people to know how creative people Representative FOSTER brought her to ate. Mr. SCHUMER is always singing the have become in not only helping edu- the State of the Union. I wish more praises of Brooklyn. cate, alleviate the cost, but serve the Members of Congress could meet more This is from Mr. DURBIN. This is community. of these DREAMers. Pablo da Silva. As a result, some of the best and Aren’t you impressed by the cumu- Pablo was brought to the United brightest students in the country have lative effect that they are making on States from Brazil in 2001, when he was come to Loyola to get a medical edu- our country, each of them with their 13 years old. He grew up in New Jersey. cation. They will stay in Illinois to individual contribution to the great- Here is what Pablo has to say about his help serve parts of the State that have ness of America? childhood: a shortage of doctors. So exciting. I am so proud of them. ‘‘The same as every other kid grow- Representative POLIS’ State of the b 1645 ing up in the U.S., I attended middle Union guest was Anarely, a student at school, pledged allegiance to the Amer- And then more on Pablo. Last fall, the Colorado State University in Fort ican flag, and sang the national an- Pablo da Silva began med school at Collins. She was a guest of JARED them. As I grew older, I came to under- Loyola. He is pursuing his dream to be- POLIS. Anarely was born in Chihuahua, stand that one thing about me differed come a cardiothoracic surgeon. This is Mexico, and came to the United States from my classmates. I was undocu- what he had to say: ‘‘DACA has allowed when she was a young child. Her family mented. However, my parents always me to fulfill my long-lasting aspiration stayed in Colorado to care for her taught me to see barriers as a measure to pursue a career in medicine. It has grandmother, who suffered from breast of perseverance and an opportunity to truly changed my future, and for that, cancer. thrive.’’ I’m truly grateful. I’m eager to con- Anarely has flourished in Colorado, Pablo was an excellent student. He tribute my share to the country I call graduating high school with a 4.3 GPA, dreamed of becoming a doctor. During my own.’’ where she participated in Reserve Offi- high school and college, Pablo volun- Thank you, Pablo. cers’ Training Corps. She went on to teered at a nursing home every week. This is Karen Villagomez. Karen was thrive at Colorado State University, He also was a member of a group called brought to the United States when she triple majoring in political science, Doctor Red Nose. Pablo and other was only 2 years old. She grew up in ethnic studies, and international rela- members of the group would dress up Chicago, Illinois. She is an outstanding tions. as clowns and visit hospitals and nurs- student and interested in public serv- I thank Representative POLIS and ing homes to cheer up patients and ice. In May 2012, Karen graduated from Representative FOSTER for their very healthcare providers. the University of Rochester in New distinguished guests at the State of the Pablo was accepted at Rutgers Uni- York with a major in political science. Union address. versity, but because he was undocu- She is the first person in her family to I did mention to the President, when mented, he didn’t qualify financially. graduate from a 4-year college. I welcomed him to the Capitol, that we

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:26 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.086 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H956 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 had many DREAMers and supporters of man LOU CORREA at the State of the conference that we had before the DREAMers in the audience here, also Union. Leslie Martinez is a freshman in State of the Union. I made a joke with supporters of fairness for Mexico. So I college who is passionate about her GERRY CONNOLLY because somebody hope we are doing better as far as our studies. She was brought to the United there referenced him as Congressman negotiations go in terms of Puerto States at the age of 2. Growing up, she Cannoli. So I welcomed him with great Rico. was alone most of the time due to her pride of being an Italian American, but I see we have been joined by Con- parents always working, but this al- he is Connolly. gressman MARK DESAULNIER from Cali- lowed her to become independent at a Nicolle moved to the United States fornia. Thank you for being here, very young age. from La Paz, Bolivia, at the age of 1 MARK, as well. She found out she was undocumented with both of her parents and her sis- Arisaid Gonzalez Porras was a guest during middle school, when she was ters. For her entire life, she has lived of RAU´ L GRIJALVA. Arisaid came to the trying to apply for a scholarship but here. The United States is her home. United States in 2000 from Mexico and needed a Social Security number. Nicolle grew up living the American currently resides in Arizona. That is Luckily, DACA came around during Dream just like any other American the State that RAU´ L GRIJALVA rep- her high school years, opening several citizen. She celebrated the same tradi- resents in Congress. opportunities for her, such as an in- tions, ate the same food, enjoyed from Arisaid is a freshman at Georgetown ternship at UCI Medical Center, where the same activities as any of my other University. As a first-generation stu- she—that would be University of Cali- friends. Throughout her education, she dent, she relied on the help of coun- fornia, Irvine—where she was able to has always been a good student and al- selors and teachers to help apply to shadow medical professionals, and it ways very active with not just school college. Growing up undocumented, she opened up her love for the medical activities, but also with the commu- lived in fear of what would happen to field. nity. She has been a Girl Scout since her and her family. In her first semes- DACA also made her college applica- the age of 4, she has played both soccer ter in college, Arisaid has become more tion a smooth process. Now she is a and volleyball for many years, and now outspoken about her status as a DACA freshman in college and is passionate as a high school student. Nicolle spent recipient and became an advocate for about, again, her studies. She attends many hours volunteering in the com- the rights of the undocumented youth. the University of California, Irvine, munity and getting involved with orga- As a student with the privilege to go and is majoring in chemistry. Leslie to school right in the center of politics, nizations such as the DREAM Project, hopes to attend medical school after LULAC, UnidosUS, and many more. she plans to continue her advocacy college in hopes of becoming a general until Congress passes DREAMers legis- After finding out that she was undocu- surgeon or a pediatrician. mented, she thought all her hard work lation. Again, doctors, doctors, doctors. and effort was for nothing. But then, Hopefully, Arisaid, that will be very Maybe she could find out about Loyola thanks to President Obama, she was soon. University School of Medicine. Maybe able to apply for DACA. Here are some testimonies from she will have many more options by And she told her story very bril- other Members of Congress. Leticia then, hopefully, when we pass this leg- liantly at our press conference before Herrera-Mendez is a student at Cali- islation. fornia State University, San Karen Bahena was a State of the the State of the Union. Really, if you could hear them tell Bernardino she was a guest of Con- Union guest of Congressman SCOTT their own stories, there is a great hu- gressman PETE AGUILAR from Cali- PETERS. Karen lived in Cuernavaca, fornia at the State of the Union ad- Morelos, Mexico, for 8 years, until 2001, mility about conveying their stories to dress. Congressman AGUILAR is a co- when her family migrated to San you. Because when you see them and sponsor with Congressman HURD from Diego. Thanks to DACA, Karen has they tell their stories and the passion Texas of the legislation that has strong been able to graduate college with a and the pride and just the patriotism— bipartisan support in the Congress and degree in public health and nutrition passion, pride, patriotism—that they one bill that we would hope that the at San Diego State University, find demonstrate, you will see why anyone, Speaker would give us an opportunity work as a research coordinator at the who has had the wonderful experience to vote on the floor of the House. I University of California, San Diego, of being in conversation or observing thank Congressman AGUILAR. and pursue her dreams in the field of our DREAMers, understands why they Leticia Herrera-Mendez was born in medicine. She hopes to one day help have had such a high reputation among Mexico and arrived in the United underprivileged communities with the American people: some of them States at the age of 8. She is a healthcare needs. who have met them, some of them who DREAMer and a student at California God bless you, Karen. have heard about them, some of them State University, San Bernardino. Again, another example, universally, who have just caught the spark, recog- In June 2019, she will obtain a bach- giving back, giving back, giving back. nize, again, the hard work ethic, the elor’s degree in sociology and two cer- State of the Union guest of JUDY commitment to education, to commu- tificates, one in Spanish public services CHU, Jung Bin Cho and his family im- nity service, to faith, to family, to the and another in social services. She is migrated to the United States when he United States of America. It is a beau- committed to helping and spreading was 7 years old from South Korea. tiful thing. It just isn’t, let’s take a awareness about the Latino commu- Thanks to DACA, Jung Bin Cho was small number of people and try to do nity. She is an immigrant activist and able to work and save money that al- something with it. This is something is the vice president of the student or- lowed him to graduate from Virginia very, very special, and it says a lot ganization, Undocumented Advocates Tech with a bachelor’s degree in busi- about our country to be able to give at Cal State University, San ness information technology. Cur- protection in a way that has some cer- Bernardino, where she advocates for rently, he is an Immigrant Rights Fel- tainty to our DREAMers. the rights of undocumented immi- low at the National Korean American Itayu Torres is a student at Pasadena grants. Service & Education Consortium—this City College. She was a guest at the Her work and dedication to her com- is quite an acronym, NAKASEC, Na- State of the Union of Congressman munity has granted her the oppor- tional Korean American Service & Edu- JIMMY GOMEZ. tunity to serve as the California dele- cation Consortium—organizing and ad- Itayu Torres came to the United gate for Fuerza Migrante National Po- vocating for economic, social, and ra- States from Mexico as a 6-month-old litical Group and student assistant of cial justice for all, with a focus on baby. the Undocumented Student Success Asian American and Pacific Coast Is- She was completely carried into this Center at CSUSB. lander communities. His dream is to country. Again, leadership, leadership, leader- attend law school in order to help his She learned she was undocumented ship. Education, leadership, how beau- community in Virginia. when she was 14 years old and, in 2014, tiful. Thank you, Jung. became eligible to apply for DACA. Leslie Martinez is a student at UC The guest of GERRY CONNOLLY, Earning DACA protections has allowed Irvine, and she was a guest of Congress- Nicolle Uria, she spoke at our press Itayu to access a government-issued ID

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:26 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00052 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.088 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H957 card, work authorization, healthcare I want to talk about my own guest at This is from Congresswoman SUSAN and protection from deportation. With the State of the Union. I am so proud DAVIS from California. This is the DACA, Itayu had the opportunity to of her. Melody Klingenfuss. She is a story of her constituent, Itso. Itso travel across the country. She is cur- statewide organizer for CHIRLA’s Cali- says: rently studying political science and fornia Dream Network. I am so proud I just graduated from high school 3 days business at Pasadena City College and of them. And Angelica Salas heads up before Deferred Action on DACA arrivals was plans to continue her education at the organization. They have done so announced, and already been accepted to San Hood College in Frederick, Maryland. much to protect our DREAMers to ad- Diego State University. I wasn’t sure if I would be able to afford going to college. But A wonderful school. vocate for comprehensive immigration Itayu was part of the California there is some uncertainty in applying for reform. DACA, but it was a risk worth taking. Dream Network Steering Committee Melody was at our press conference. I After DACA, I was very enthusiastic to be and one day hopes to run for a seat in am proud of her. able to work, serve my community, and at- the United States Senate. Melody was born in Guatemala City, tend San Diego State University. I graduated You go, girl. United States Senate. Guatemala. After growing up without this year with a political science degree. Why not President? Well, she wasn’t pardons, she was reunited with her As a border resident, I have seen the toll born here, so she can’t be President of that harsh immigration enforcement has mother in the heart of Los Angeles taken in my community. Many times, in the the United States. when she was 9 years old. Again, Gabriela Hernandez was a midst of the rhetoric, we lose sight of the Can you just imagine. real impact that harsh enforcement has on State of the Union guest of our great She earned her bachelor’s degree in the lives of hardworking families. My work Democratic Whip STENY HOYER. communications and political science with the community is deeply rewarding. I Gabriela, 19, is a college student at at California State University, Los An- have been part of helping thousands of San Prince George’s Community College. geles. She graduated with a master of Diegans, and I have also seen the suffering She came here with her mother from El nonprofit leadership and management that many families have to go through be- Salvador at the age of 4. Her goal is to cause there are failed and inhumane immi- from the University of Southern Cali- transfer to a four-year university in gration policies. fornia. She has conducted a research the fall, study to be a social worker, I remain fully committed to continuing to thesis focused on the representation of serve my community and ensure that we and just have an opportunity to thrive. undocumented students in mass com- continue to build a movement that affords She has lived her entire life in this immigrants, refugees, and citizens alike the country, having attended schools in munication. Melody works as CHIRLA’s California Dream Network right to live with dignity in the United Prince George’s County since kinder- States. statewide youth organizer as a devoted garten. Because many family members How beautiful. These statements already live here, she doesn’t have a lot advocate for human and immigration rights. She is a DACA recipient since themselves are so beautiful. of family left in her home country. I don’t know who made that speech 2015. Her life goal is to continue bend- The country she came from is El Sal- in 1909, or other speeches competed for ing the arc of the moral universe to- vador. And the situation probably has the longest in the meantime, that was wards justice. only gotten worse there since she not my goal today. came. I just got word that the House Histo- But we have so many testimonies, In any event, I thank Mr. HOYER for rian confirmed: ‘‘You have now set the real testimony in the words of the giving us her story. record for the longest continuous DREAMers, as I say, the most eloquent speech in the House since at least b 1700 of all. 1909.’’ I wonder what that was. I did ask my staff to say that when I Mr. FRANK PALLONE, who spent a lot This is Congresswoman WATSON came to the floor earlier, I wanted to of time with us, it seems like 6 or 7 COLEMAN, who spent so much time with make sure that we were filling our 40 hours ago, in the beginning of this, he us here today. I want to read from her hours between 8 this morning and to- was with us early in the presentation, testimony. Parthiv Patel from Mount morrow night with the words to con- and his guest at the State of the Union Laurel, New Jersey. vince or the prayers to inspire. So I was Esder Chong, a student at Rutgers Parthiv is a DREAMer who has been thought when I came to the floor, I University-Newark. in the DACA program since 2012 and would be like reading the Bible, be- When Esder was 6 years old, she and graduated from Drexel University’s cause the Bible is so fraught with so her family immigrated to the States Thomas R. Kline School of Law in May many passages that take us to a higher from South Korea. Unfortunately, after 2016. place to have a conversation about the 2008 economic recession, her mom Parthiv was brought to the United human beings, all of God’s children, at lost her position working at a hospital States when he was 5 years old and has a higher place. and they lost their legal status. Esder lived in the United States continuously Again, referencing the 40 days in the first realized the implications of hav- since then. Old Testament, the 40 years in the ing an undocumented status when her He was admitted to the New Jersey desert in the New Testament, the 40 mom got into a bike accident. It was State Bar on January 24, 2018. days, the Gospel of Matthew, which is an emergency situation and she needed Congratulations, Parthiv. so, so beautiful in terms of its inspira- treatment. However, because they were He was previously admitted to the tion. uninsured, she treated herself through Pennsylvania State Bar on December But I know that many people quote home remedies and prayer. Fast for- 18, 2017. He is the first DREAMer ad- the Gospel of Matthew many times. ward one decade, Esder is now a sopho- mitted to the New Jersey and Pennsyl- But they always just quote the first more at Rutgers University-Newark on vania bars. part where they talk about when I was a full ride thanks to private, external When Parthiv’s DACA status expires hungry. In the Gospel of Matthew, scholarships and donors, including on August 9, 2018, he could be deported most people know when a person comes thedream.us and twenty others. She from the only country he knows and before the Lord, he says: We have a currently serves as the founder/presi- ripped away from his family. Even if he place for you in Heaven, for when I was dent of RU Dreamers, a Rutgers Uni- is not picked up for deportation, with- hungry, you fed me, when I was versity-Newark student organization out work authorization or legal status, thirsty, you gave me a drink, when I that advocates for undocumented stu- his employment options and his ability was naked, you clothed me, when I was dents’ rights to higher education. to put his law degree to use serving the in prison, you visited me. That whole Esder is also a student-athlete com- community will also be substantially list of corporal works of mercy. peting for the Rutgers University-New- limited. And then the person says: When did I ark cross country/track and field team Parthiv wants to make sure White do this, Lord, I didn’t see you? And and the news editor for Rutgers Uni- House Chief of Staff Kelly knows that then the Lord says: When you did this versity-Newark Newark newspaper, the he is far from lazy—he should just look for the least of my brethren, you did it Observer. at his college and law school records. for me. How many hours does Esder have in a Thank you, Congresswoman BONNIE Okay, I am just going to read it right day? I would like to know. WATSON COLEMAN. from the Bible here. So that was the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:26 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00053 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.090 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H958 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 first part. But the very first part of it humanity, He enabled us to participate periods of political instability and is: in His divinity, that spark. So we re- bleak futures. In 1999, at the age of 6, ‘‘But when the Son of Man comes in spect it in people, but we have to also following an economic crash, hyper- His glory, and all the angels with Him, recognize it in ourselves and the re- inflation, and a coup d’etat, my mother He will sit on His glorious throne. All sponsibility it carries with us. began making plans to move to the the nations will be gathered before So I choose to go back to a place United States. Him, and He will separate the people where we had a much better reception ‘‘By August 2001, I arrived in New one from another as a shepherd sepa- all over Washington, D.C., for loving York City, and we settled in Queens. I rates the sheep from the goats. He will the DREAMers and wanting to get the was quickly enrolled in public school. I put the sheep on His right, the goats on job done for them. Because in address- learned English within a year, and I His left. ing their needs, we are talking about blended in with the rest of the chil- ‘‘Then the King will say to those on who we are as a nation. dren. But I was always aware of my His right’’—the King being the Lord, I have another statement from status, and I quickly learned how long the Son of Man—‘‘ ‘Come, you who are BONNIE WATSON COLEMAN. It was her and how extremely difficult any real blessed by my Father; take your inher- birthday yesterday, so she will have immigration reform in Congress would itance, the Kingdom prepared for you about two or three statements today. be. By 2011, at 17 and after another since the creation of the world. For I She talks about the Velez sisters from fresh defeat of the DREAM Act, I faced was hungry and you gave me some- Burlington, New Jersey. the devastating feeling of being denied thing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave The Velez sisters came to the United the opportunity of accepting scholar- me something to drink, I was a strang- States at 4 and 9 years old, respec- ships and student loans that effectively er and you invited me in, I needed tively, with their father fleeing the denied my shot at the colleges of my clothes and you clothed me, I was sick Chavez regime in Venezuela. choice. Yet I continued, attended Hun- and you looked after me, I was in pris- Daniela has earned two associates’ ter College where all I wanted to do on and you came to visit me.’ Then the degrees in engineering and business ad- was study government and politics. righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when ministration from Rowan College in ‘‘Shortly afterwards, President did we see you hungry and feed you, or New Jersey. She is now pursuing an un- Obama’s announcement of DACA was thirsty and give you something to dergraduate degree in business admin- almost miraculous. I thought I could drink? When did we see you a stranger istration at Rutgers Business School finally step out of the shadows, no and invite you in, or needing clothes while she works full time for the New longer with fear but with excitement. I and clothe you? When did we see you Jersey Business and Industry Associa- then entered the workforce imme- sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ tion. diately and found myself employment The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, Daniela also cofounded a business in one of the leader wine retailers in whatever you did for one of the least of that sells take-home kits for physics the country, where I still work today. I also entered an internship with the dis- these brothers and sisters of mine, you labs in Rowan College. trict office of Congresswoman Malo- did for me.’’ How many of us could do that? ney, which further cemented my belief This is the part that I really find The kits allow students who can’t at- that good government is one that helps challenging and we should all pay at- tend college lab courses to take an on- people. The high cost of living in New tention to. line version at home. York and the strains of paying tuition ‘‘Then He will say to those on His Alex is awaiting word this spring on out-of-pocket still brought great chal- left, ‘Depart from me, you who are college acceptance at Camden County lenges, but with DACA I felt that any- cursed, into the eternal fire prepared College, with her dreams to be a vet- thing was possible. for the devil and his angels. For I was tech. But without valid DACA status, hungry and you gave me nothing to ‘‘Now that DACA is on its last Alex won’t be able to legally drive, at- breaths, I have no doubt that the cour- eat, I was thirsty and you gave me tend the vet-tech program, or work. age and hope it has given us will carry nothing to drink, I was a stranger and Alex said in an article with CNN: ‘‘In us on until we all take our oath of alle- you did not invite me in, I needed all honesty, it is scary to think about giance.’’ clothes and you did not clothe me, I leaving,’’ she said. ‘‘My mom cried for So beautiful. Thank you, Diego de la was sick and in prison and you did not the first time since we talked about Vega. look after me.’ They will also answer, our situation. She’s a positive person From Congresswoman YVETTE ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or and is hoping that something good will CLARKE, another proud Brooklyn Rep- thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes happen for us.’’ resentative. She was here before, but I or sick or in prison and did not help b 1715 thank Congresswoman CLARKE. you?’ He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, Joel Perez Hernandez is a New York whatever you did not do for one of the Unfortunately, if the President public school graduate and proud New least of these, you did not do for me.’ doesn’t extend DACA protections, they Yorker whose parents brought him to Then they will go away to eternal pun- said they will be forced to leave. Brooklyn as a young child. In Sep- ishment, but the righteous to eternal Daniela recently told CNN: ‘‘If DACA tember 2015, his Deferred Action was life.’’ ends, I will leave with Alex. I will close expiring. He set an appointment to So it is not just what we do to take my business, leave work and school.’’ renew his status and was beginning to the opportunity to help and feed and That is why we have to pass a bill, save his money to pay for the associ- clothe, it is what we do not do that the and that is why I would hope that the ated fees. judgment was made about. Opportuni- Speaker of the House would honor the Around this time, a small family ties missed. House he is Speaker of by giving us a emergency arose among his mother and As I said earlier, to minister to the chance to vote on a DREAMer bill, a her family in Mexico. With a fatal mis- needs of God’s creation—and we are all bipartisan DREAMer bill on the floor understanding of the protections af- God’s creation—is an act of worship. of the House. forded by DACA, he and his family de- To ignore those needs is to dishonor CAROLYN MALONEY is with us. I thank cided he was in the best position to the God who made us. Very clear in the her for this testimony. It is about travel to Mexico and still be allowed to Gospel of Matthew. Diego de la Vega. Diego is a DREAMer return to the United States. As people of faith, as we all profess to who is an intern in Congresswoman Unfortunately, he and his family did be, and we believe—I mean, a faith is a MALONEY’s office and was the Congress- not have a strong understanding of how gift, but we do believe that we are all woman’s guest at the State of the our immigration system currently God’s children—whatever we are, we Union. Here is his story. works. As a result, 2 years after the are all, whatever it is. We are all God’s ‘‘Our family history traces genera- Senate voted to protect DREAMers, children, we are all created in the tions of Ecuadorians since the early Joel is now stuck in Mexico, a country image and likeness of God, we all carry decades of the republic. Immigration that he does not know, with his a spark of divinity. When Christ came was not common for us, and my par- girlfriend and life partner, Ambien, an down from Heaven to participate in our ents and grandparents endured great American citizen.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:26 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00054 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.091 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H959 Joel had no intention to break our this all day. Congresswoman LUCILLE Josefina is an undocumented Califor- immigration laws and would never ROYBAL-ALLARD. nian who is originally from Colima, have been in this position if this body I acknowledged Congressman Mexico. Her testimony has been pre- had simply done its job back in 2013. GARAMENDI who was here before and sented by Representative TED LIEU Joel’s story illustrates the cost of our came back again, thank you. from California. decisions and reminds us why we must Mr. GREEN, I acknowledged him be- Josefina migrated to the United take action now to protect DREAMers. fore when he was here, thank you. States when she was 3 years old. Well, This is not an unusual thing where They are coming and going. her family immigrated to the United there are family emergencies or a Congresswoman NAPOLITANO of Cali- States when she was 3 years old, and death in the family across the border fornia’s constituents have said this: she was with them. Although she be- Diego Garcia Ramirez, 31-year old man or something and people don’t fully un- came aware of her immigration at an from El Monte, provider for his wife derstand that just going for that just early age, her status had never defined and three kids. He just had DACA ap- destroys—under current law, makes it her. She had transformed uncertainty proved at the end of July and considers very hard for them to come back. into determination. the opportunity of DACA a blessing This is from Representative When she graduated high school, she ´ from God. He has been able to provide CARDENAS, who was with us earlier. I a stable living for his family. He was became hyperaware of the financial thank him for being with us earlier. brought to the U.S. at age 3. constraints faced by immigrant youth. This is a letter to him from a graduate A real statement of it can work. Josefina was able to afford her under- student: Cynthia Lopez Lopez, 26-year-old graduate education at UCLA by work- ‘‘I am a current graduate student at woman from El Monte also, waiting for ing multiple jobs and by applying to the University of Southern California her work authorization document to many scholarships. She would com- School of Social Work. As part of my renew and fears she would lose her job mute 2 hours every day, each way, to curriculum, I am taking a class on pol- at Wells Fargo. She is the caregiver for UCLA on a daily basis because she icy and advocacy where I am doing a her mom, who is awaiting a lung trans- could not afford to dorm. project on a piece of legislation. My plant. She is the only source of income Her main motivation is her mother, focus for this project is on immigra- and pays for rent, medical bills, and es- who is also an immigrant. Her per- tion, particularly on the newly intro- sentials. sistent determination to provide for duced bill known as the BRIDGE Act, Imagine that, to have all of that her family convinces Josefina of her which will expand DACA for 3 years. challenged. But it is, again, it is the ability to surmount the barriers she ‘‘As an undocumented student, I am strength, the commitment to family faces as an undocumented student. worried about my future here in the that all of these people have that Today, she is earning her Ph.D. at United States. I came to the United strengthens America, and that is what UCLA. States at age 9, in 2001. I graduated argues for family unification in our im- Her Ph.D. at UCLA. with a B.A.’’—bachelor of arts—‘‘in so- migration policy. That is a subject for Her research interests include the ciology, with a minor in Women’s another day. For today, we are talking health and aging of the undocumented Studies from Cal State Northridge in about the DREAMers. population. Her scholarly work has 2015. Thanks to DACA, I have been able Again, from MIKE THOMPSON, whom I been supported by the Robert Wood to achieve my dreams of obtaining acknowledged earlier, he has another Johnson Foundation and the Institute higher education as well as to be able testimony, MIKE THOMPSON of Cali- for Humane Studies. She believes re- to work here legally.’’ fornia. search is a way to rewrite the nar- That is so important, to get an edu- Denia Candela was born in Acapulco, ratives of the undocumented commu- cation, to work legally to serve in the Guerrero, Mexico. Today she lives in nity in the United States: Undocu- military. Sonoma Valley, California, and is his mented people are the backbone of U.S. ‘‘Having lived and attended public constituent. Denia is a 2011 alumni of society, she writes, yet we are dehu- school all my life here, I don’t know 10,000 Degrees, an organization that manized, tokenized, and invisibalized. any other country I can call home. serves low-income and first-generation That is a good word. ‘‘I had a very supportive system dur- students. This prompts the need for a solution ing my high school years. I graduated 10,000 Degrees, that means degrees to immigration, which is long overdue. from San Fernando High School with from college, not temperature. You are so right, Josefina. She graduated from Sonoma State honors. I volunteered. I served in the MARK DESAULNIER, whom I acknowl- University in 2016 with a B.A. in ap- community, student body, and to this edged earlier, is here with us. MARK is plied statistics and a concentration in day, I am working for the betterment there. I thank MARK. the actuarial field. This is from Marco of Contra Costa of my community working for the Los She is currently involved in several County, represented by Congressman Angeles Family Housing. different organizations and serves as a MARK DESAULNIER. He is with us and ‘‘Now that Donald Trump is Presi- board member of the Sonoma Valley has been with us for a long time today. dent, I am concerned about my future Education Foundation in the Sonoma It is from Marco, who says: and that of my community. I want for Valley Unified School District. She is ‘‘Thanks to DACA, I have been able others to have the same opportunities also involved as a commissioner for to give back to the community in more that I have had so far. Sonoma County Regional Parks. ‘‘I hope that you can allocate some of Her current position as the enroll- profound ways. Because I was granted your time for me to talk to you about ment and outreach manager for a non- employment authorization, I was able the importance of this bill and why it profit has allowed her to serve families to work for 2 years as a case manager matters, not only to me, but to the en- who need early education services in reentry services. I helped members tire community. through State-funded preschools. Denia of my community find their way back ‘‘Alejandro Castro, Master’s of Social is now in her second year as a board into society after being in prison. I as- Work Candidate.’’ member for Los Cien Sonoma County. sisted them in managing their sobriety And this is from GRACE NAPOLITANO. Above everything else, she is a mother and finding stable employment and Are you still with us? Thank you, to a wonderful 7-year-old. housing.’’ GRACE. She received DACA in 2012. DACA God bless you, Marco. I see we have been joined by ALBIO opened doors for her, allowing her to ‘‘Currently, I am working in a non- SIRES from New Jersey. We have had provide for her son and give back to profit that provides free psychosocial many DREAMers from New Jersey’s the community that has seen her grow. services to cancer patients. My only testimony. Denia is a DREAMer. dream in life is to be able to give back And DONALD PAYNE, I read your testi- Thank you for dreaming, and thank to my community, to help make them mony earlier, DONALD. Thank you for you for inspiring us to dream as well. safer. I am also working on my mas- being with us. TED LIEU, testimony from TED LIEU’s ter’s in counseling and am on a licen- Congresswoman, I have been refer- district, who was with us until a few sure track as a marriage and family ring to you as the godmother of all of minutes ago. therapist.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:51 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00055 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.093 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H960 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 ‘‘I plan to use my license to continue fornia State Polytechnic University, gry is nothing, being thirsty is noth- working with the chemically depend- Pomona, with a focus in management, ing. It is the rug that is getting to me. ent and criminal populations. I want to human resources, and entrepreneur- Juan Conde writes: ‘‘Dear Congress- help make our communities safer. ship. Andrea seeks to use her experi- man Welch, I am writing to tell you DACA allows me to continue working ence, education, and skills to support my story about DACA in the hope that on my dream.’’ in uplifting Latino/Hispanic commu- you and your colleagues will come up That is beautiful, Marco. Remember nities and underrepresented students. with a legislative solution to this what the Lord said in the Gospel of Faith and family, together, is what issue. I am one of the ‘DREAMer kids.’ Matthew: When I was in prison, you drives Andrea to keep pushing forward I have lived most of my life in the U.S. visited me. in life. and consider it my home. Thank you for doing that. Again, from some other Members, ‘‘Throughout my life, I have been driven to understand cancer and have b 1730 from ALMA ADAMS, who was with us earlier, from North Carolina. She tells dedicated my studies to obtain the Elias Rosenfeld, Boston, Massachu- the story of Brenda Montanez. training needed to help cancer pa- setts. I met Elias at the Faith Leaders Brenda Montanez was born in San tients. My mother passed away from Event. I had the privilege to meet Elias Luis Potosi, Mexico, and came to Char- cancer, and this tragedy made me real- this month, when he came to the Cap- lotte, North Carolina, as a child with ize that I wanted to dedicate my life to itol with DREAMers and faith leaders her parents. Brenda always knew she fighting this disease. This is why I so he could share his story. wanted to attend college, and because spent a decade of my life in research, Born in Venezuela, Elias came to the of DACA, she was able to. At 18, Brenda first in apoptosis during my M.S., and United States as a young child. Shortly enrolled at Johnson C. Smith Univer- then DNA repair of tobacco and smoke after his mother passed away, United sity in Charlotte, where she is a stu- carcinogenesis for my doctorate stud- States Citizenship and Immigration dent leader. ies. Services filed a letter notifying him She is a founding member of the ‘‘I chose science because, at the time, that he was now an undocumented in- Latinos Aiming for Achievement, it was impossible for undocumented dividual, unable to receive healthcare, LAFA, a group founded to give Latino students to attend medical school, and work and provide for his family, or ob- students on campus a voice in the com- I wanted to have an impact on a dis- tain a driver’s license to commute to munity and a place to meet and discuss ease that had affected my family. It and from school. Elias, however, fought issues impacting them. To date, there was difficult to obtain my degree as an to find a solution. He founded United are 32 members of the organization. undocumented student, but I persisted Student Immigrants, USI, a student- Brenda is one of many students na- because I believed in the promise of the led community-based organization that tionwide who has been able to achieve American Dream. helped over 300 undocumented students her goals of earning a secondary degree ‘‘When DACA was announced, it be able to afford a college education. thanks to DACA. transformed my life. Suddenly I could be paid for the research I was doing. I Elias has also partnered with the Thank you, ALMA ADAMS, for submit- Florida High School Young Democrats ting Brenda’s story. could drive, I could be free from the fear of deportation, knowing that all and The Children’s Trust, and lobbied This is from Representative JARED my hard work and dedication would over 200 State legislators in support of HUFFMAN from California: Alex DeLeon State-sponsored immigrant child is a talented young woman who in- not be meaningless, and that the idea of America and her promise were alive healthcare, which resulted in the pass- terned in Representative HUFFMAN’s of- ing of the Senate and House bills pro- fice. He recently invited her to speak and strong. It also meant that medical tecting healthcare for over 22,000 chil- at a townhall on the future of DACA, schools, including my current school, UVM’s Larner College of Medicine, dren in Florida. Elias has spearheaded and here is what she said: student demonstrations at over 20 ‘‘I’m smart. I’m resilient. I’m hard- changed their policies and gave DACA State and Federal congressional offices working. I’m a DREAMer. I’m going to students a chance to enroll. ‘‘I understand that legislation takes in support of the Dream Act. make something out of myself one day, time, but if there is anything you can He received a 6-year full-merit schol- but only if programs like DACA live do to help DACA students, including a arship to Brandeis University under on. And I’m not the only one: your discharge petition, please do so. If you the TYP social justice scholarship pro- classmate is a DREAMer, your lawyer do, you will have the gratitude of a gram. is a DREAMer, and your boss is a group of dedicated individuals who Recently, Elias worked in campaigns DREAMer. We’re worth protecting and wish nothing more than to give back to in Florida and New Hampshire as a we’re here to stay. That’s why I’m get- the only country they have ever campaign fellow and intern for the im- ting out there and urging Congress to known.’’ migration department for Senator save the DACA program to allow near- Okay. So now this one says: Today, ELIZABETH WARREN. ly 800,000 young Americans, like me, to the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus He also shared with us his religious keep working towards their aspirations wrote to Speaker PAUL RYAN to re- beliefs that day. He made a very, very and contributing to the only country quest a ‘‘Queen of the Hill’’ rule to gov- impressive presentation. that they call home.’’ ern debate on competing DACA and Thank you, Elias. I have had the occasion to have a border security proposals to establish I had the privilege to meet Andrea conversation with Alex DeLeon. She is the official position of the U.S. House Ortiz this month, when she came to the a remarkable young woman in doing so of Representatives. Capitol to share her story with Mem- much in the community to give back. I Last week, the 48-member Problem bers, faith leaders, and the American am so glad that JARED HUFFMAN has Solvers Caucus announced a bipartisan people. Andrea Carolina Ortiz Duran is called her testimony to our attention. set of principles that lay the ground- a God-driven, passionate, creative lead- PETER WELCH from Vermont and work for a deal on DACA and border se- er. RICK LARSEN from the State of Wash- curity. Born in Leon, Mexico, Andrea mi- ington are here. The letter was led in the Problem grated to the United States at the age Congressman WELCH calls to our at- Solvers Caucus by FRED UPTON, Repub- of 6 with her parents and four siblings. tention the story about a DREAMer lican from Michigan; and PETER She was able to successfully apply for that he knows, and it is a letter from WELCH. the DACA program. Juan Conde. I will preface this by say- The text of the letter can be found Having successfully navigated the ing Juan Conde, bachelor’s of science, below and here: education system as a first-generation master’s of science, Ph.D. in bio- ‘‘Dear Mr. Speaker, the President undocumented student, she became a chemistry and molecular biology, cur- challenged us last fall to legislate the role model for her siblings and commu- rent medical student at the University DACA program rather than relying on nity members. of Vermont, all of that. executive orders to determine its fate. She graduated with honors in busi- I am telling you, this rug is killing The President has also asked us to ad- ness administration from the Cali- me. Standing up is nothing, being hun- dress border security.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:26 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00056 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.094 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H961 ‘‘DACA is an important issue in all of Okay. We have another story from She also mourned with our country our States. And, as we know, the pro- Houston, from SHEILA JACKSON LEE. in some of our worst tragedies, as this gram’s original intent was to protect Andrea Ramos Fernandez is a local San country’s pain was also her own. from deportation eligible children and Antonio DREAMer, who adores San Therefore, she asks to be given the op- young adults who were brought to this Antonio, as any true San Antonian portunity to prove she is already an country through no fault of their own. would. In 2005, Andrea was 8 years old American. We have learned through multiple re- when she moved to the United States. How lovely. How lovely, Andrea. A ports that the U.S. Immigration and She was too young to realize the little bit of my Golden State Warriors Customs Enforcement has moved to de- spring break vacation her mother had coming in there when she was talking port many who have been here for planned was a permanent move—that about the Spurs, but anyway. years, including some who are now that vacation was a permanent move. From Congresswoman ROYBAL- married with children. Many have paid This move was influenced by economic ALLARD, who is with us, the godmother their taxes and have no serious crimi- instability, paired with her father’s of it all, we have this testimony from nal record. Many know no other way of stabbing in a taxi cab in Mexico City. one of her student DREAMers: ‘‘I am a life. Once Andrea and her mother made it student of East Los Angeles College ‘‘There are a number of worthy Mem- to the U.S., Andrea’s grandparents, and part of your congressional district. ber proposals that should be properly who are U.S. citizens, began the proc- I am very concerned about the initia- debated and voted on by the House. ess to legalize Andrea’s mother. tive President Donald Trump took to- Some are bipartisan and would end the What Andrea’s grandparents didn’t wards the DACA program. He gave uncertainty and distress that some realize was that the broken immigra- Congress 6 months to find a solution. 800,000 DACA recipients are enduring. tion system made it difficult to grant As of today, there has been no progress Others would also address the issue of Andrea’s mother a green card, that im- and many are losing the protection border security and broader immigra- migration process being over 23 years, they had with DACA. I am asking to leaving Andrea out of the possibility to tion reform issues. fight for a clean Dream Act for all. The adjust her status. ‘‘Mr. Speaker, we seek your commit- immigrant community is a hard- ‘‘Chain migration’’—we call it family ment that the House will address the working group of individuals that are uncertainty of the DACA-eligible popu- unification—has been a broken issue within the government, and in this in this country for a better life, mean- lation in a timely fashion, either sepa- ing that they want to work, educate rately or as part of a broader package, case, Andrea’s grandparents could do nothing to change her status. That is themselves, be in the Army, and have using an open and inclusive process all the benefits this country provides that allows the House to work its will. why we want to improve it. to make it an even better place to live ‘‘Specifically, we seek your commit- So Andrea grew up undocumented. in. ment that the House will debate and She grew up pledging allegiance to the ‘‘Sincerely, Luvia Navarrete, DACA vote on all serious and substantive pro- American flag, watching American car- recipient.’’ posals, particularly those offered on a toons on Saturday mornings, and get- To Congresswoman LUCILLE ROYBAL- bipartisan basis, as well as any bill ap- ting good grades. Andrea’s academic ALLARD, this letter begins: ‘‘Hi, Mrs. proved by the full Senate. A ‘Queen of performance was so great that her first Lucille. I am Ana Garay from District the Hill’ rule should be employed that academic award was the President’s establishes the proposal receiving the Award, which was signed by then- 40. I am a DACA student from East Los most votes as the position of the President Obama. Andrea continued Angeles College and I wanted to tell House. her education with academic excel- you my concerns about the DACA prob- ‘‘We accept the responsibility to lence, achieving high marks, eventu- lem that is going on right now. I want- reach consensus on a legislative solu- ally graduating Churchill High School ed to tell you I am really scared of tion to DACA and are determined to re- with honors. what could happen in the next months, solve this issue. We believe immigra- Her grades then led her to get a full because, as other students, I want to tion reform should be bipartisan and ride at Texas State University in San accomplish my dreams and be a proud that only an open process allowing for Marcos, Texas, where she pursued a ca- Latina, as you are. I hope that we fight the best ideas from both sides will dem- reer in healthcare for 2 years. Eventu- together for what we want for our fu- onstrate to the American people that ally, Andrea decided to transfer to the ture as a community, because we are we can find common ground.’’ University of Texas in San Antonio, known as the one that fights to- That was a letter from the Problem where she is now currently studying gether.’’ Signed, Ms. Ana Garay. Solvers Caucus, led by Representative public policy while being a student In the previous letter that I was FRED UPTON, Republican from Michi- leader on her campus. reading from, the one from San Anto- gan; and PETER WELCH, Democrat from Andrea has been involved in various nio, she talks about how many years it Vermont. projects around the city of San Anto- would take for the grandparents to This is very important because we nio, working as the lead immigration help the daughter to become legal and are talking about Queen of the Hill. As fellow for MOVE San Antonio. She has to get a green card. The other day, you know, my colleagues, there are also pushed for educational initiatives there was an article in the paper, a big, several options to come to the floor. on her campus, leading to the creation long article, about how backed up the One is Queen of the Hill; one is King of of the first onsite DREAMer Center on green card applications are; years, the Hill. a college campus in Texas. years. So even the people who want to Queen of the Hill means the bill that Because of her leadership, Andrea has be doing things on schedule, many peo- gets the most votes is the bill that pre- been given the opportunity to visit ple are here not because they came il- vails. It would go to conference with D.C. to lobby for the Dream Act and is legally, but because the process took so the Senate; or if it is the Senate bill, now asking the Congress and Senate to long that their opportunity expired. act on bipartisan legislation. Andrea would go to the President’s desk. b 1745 King of the Hill, which we are not ad- graduates in December of 2018, 4 vocating, is the one that wins last. months after her DACA expires. While This is from Congresswoman ROSA We want the one that gets the most Andrea is worried about what that may DELAURO, who has joined us. Thank votes, the one that wins the most mean to her, she worries more about you, Congresswoman DELAURO. votes. This time, the queen should pre- her community, whom she sees as a ‘‘Dear Representative DeLauro: I was vail. community full of promise. Andrea is honored to intern in your Washington I appreciate the letter from FRED an American who adores and believes office and learn more about the govern- UPTON and PETER WELCH because it in the American promise. ment of the United States and, more talks about some very important Andrea cheered when the Spurs won specifically, responding to constitu- things: a bipartisan, open process. their fourth championship in 2007, and ents’ concerns. That brings people together: biparti- once more in 2014. ‘‘Walking through the long tunnels sanship, transparency, unity. I thank Okay. That was then. This is now. that connect the congressional build- the caucus for this. Okay. ings to the Capitol, I began to envision

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:51 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00057 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.096 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H962 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 myself working in the District of Co- gram to become a certified legal inter- pursue her own American Dream. Even lumbia upon graduation. But like for preter. Wow. That is hard. when Esther’s DACA status was secure, many people, the election results have She hopes to head back to New she said that typical safe spaces like forced me to take a different path. Brunswick and work in the public hospitals, police stations, and doctor’s ‘‘After the Presidential election, all school system as an administrator to offices filled her with fear because the stability that had allowed my fam- help students just like her. She also DACA doesn’t afford protections to her ily and me to become part of the Amer- wants to create a nonprofit organiza- family. She also hides her status and ican life was turned into fear and doubt tion to assist various ethnic groups worries what would happen if someone about our future. with gaining access to higher edu- she trusted outed them to immigration ‘‘Not only has the President-elect cation. authorities. vowed to deport millions of undocu- Diana truly believes that the edu- Unless we take immediate action to mented immigrants, but he also prom- cation she received in New Jersey was help DREAMers, Esther’s future is ised to remove the DACA program. For so valuable to her overall success, and even more uncertain. Thank you, Es- this reason, I had to return to New she wants to give back so that others ther, for sharing your story with us. Haven and assist my family as we fig- can follow suit. Thank you, Congresswoman JAYAPAL, ure out which decisions are best to I just want to dwell on this for a mo- for sharing it. take moving forward. Thus, I am sorry ment because she is talking about edu- We have been joined by CEDRIC RICH- to inform you I will no longer be able cation being invaluable to her success, MOND, the distinguished chair of the to continue my internship in your and she wants to give back so that oth- Congressional Black Caucus. Earlier I Washington, D.C., office. ers can follow suit. I hope that the read statistics from the caucus about ‘‘I want to express that, while I am in Italian-American, Irish-American, Ger- how many people were DREAMers from constant fear questioning whether I’ll man-American, Dutch-American, all of the Caribbean, from Nigeria, et cetera. be able to complete my undergraduate the ethnic groups that are here in our We read some testimony that was from degree, or if my U.S.-citizen sister will country take full pride in the example our press conference by the DREAMer be separated from us, I am not giving they have set for how the American sent by KAMALA HARRIS from Belize in. Dream works in America, because what and coming from the African-American ‘‘My best memory working in your you see with these DREAMers just fol- community now. Thank you for com- office was running into an old em- lows so closely with what our families ing, Congressman RICHMOND. ployer who came to the office for a did, our ancestors did coming here. Now we have one from David Capitol tour. Reflecting on the aspira- The idea that education was key to Vasquez, a DREAMer I have met. David tions I had working as a busser to get upward mobility and to reaching per- was born in Germany and moved to the myself through high school, I remem- sonal aspirations, that faith and family United States at age 13. He grew up in ber your persona always providing me and a work ethic were an important Elk Grove Village, Illinois, and grad- with hope. part of how you were regarded in uated at the top of his high school ‘‘That hope has grown exponentially America—and this may be what is in class. He earned a full-ride scholarship as I reminisce on the times you walked their DNA as they come to the United to Bowdoin College through into the office and greeted all your in- States, but it is clear they had master- QuestBridge, an organization that terns with such gratitude and enthu- ful, great examples to show how to links low-income students with top col- siasm. achieve the American Dream in all of leges in the U.S. David graduated from Bowdoin with ‘‘With infinite gratitude.’’ the waves of immigration that came a double major in economics and Ger- Thank you, Congresswoman before. man and was able to spend two sum- DELAURO, for submitting this testi- Family, faith, community, edu- mers interning at Goldman Sachs. He mony to us and recognizing the dif- cation, patriotism, love of America. So later joined AlphaSights, a high- ficult decisions that families have to beautiful. And Diana spells it out so growth startup. At AlphaSights, David make in the interest of families stay- clearly here. established the firm’s San Francisco ing together. Thank you. Another one from Representative office and grew it from 8 to 25 employ- NIKI TSONGAS of Massachusetts has JAYAPAL of Washington State. We ees. joined us. Thank you. Congresswoman heard from her earlier. She was with us That is an important point because GWEN MOORE of Wisconsin has joined us earlier, Representative JAYAPAL. She is many of these DREAMers have started as well. Congresswoman FREDERICA on the Judiciary Committee, a leader businesses, created jobs; by creating WILSON of Florida has joined us as well. on immigration. She is an immigrant small businesses and being entre- Thank you, Congresswoman WILSON, herself. preneurs, small and larger jobs. That is for joining us. Twenty-two-year-old Esther was a really an important part of our econ- Again, this is from Representative hardworking and valued intern in Rep- omy. WATSON COLEMAN: Another con- resentative JAYAPAL’s office last year. Jesper Kim from Fotorama: Jesper is stituent, Diana Dı´az, who is 22 years She is also a DREAMer who came to a South Korean-born immigrant old. She came to the United States the United States with her parents and brought to the United States when he from Mexico with her mother and two younger sister when she was just 3 was 2 years old. He received his associ- older siblings in 2002 when Diana was 7 years old from South Korea. When they ate’s degree and is pursuing a degree in years old. They settled in Somerset, arrived on a visa, Esther’s parents computer science while working at his New Jersey, where her mother worked sought help from an immigration law- high school’s photography studio. He long hours to ensure that her children yer to obtain more permanent legal continues to volunteer at his church could focus all their attention on status in the United States. They filled and in his high school’s Key Club. school. out applications, paid their dues, and Evelyn Valdez-Ward from Irvine, Diana graduated from high school in gave the lawyer most of the money California: Graduate student, Univer- New Brunswick, New Jersey. While they had. And he ran away with all of sity of California, Irvine. A first-gen- still in high school, Diana herself it. He scammed them and left them eration, female, Hispanic, undocu- worked a full-time job to help support with nothing. mented scientist, Evelyn constantly her family. After high school, she at- Esther’s parents’ visas expired. They seeks to dismantle economic, racial, tended Middlesex County Community had little money. They pushed their and cultural barriers. She is part of the College, where she got her associate’s kids around in shopping carts because 1 percent of 800,000 DACA students pur- degree in education. She then contin- a stroller was too expensive. Then they suing postgraduate education. ued her higher education and trans- started over. They built their lives in In addition to studying climate ferred to Rutgers-Newark in the fall of the United States. They raised a smart, change’s impact on planet productivity 2016. There she majors in public admin- passionate daughter who is now a sen- and drought tolerance, she is a strong istration and minors in Spanish. ior at Harvard. and loud advocate for her undocu- Diana has aspirations to continue her The DACA status Esther obtained in mented community. I would say education and enroll in a master’s pro- 2013 helped to give her the freedom to ‘‘vocal.’’

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:26 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00058 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.098 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H963 Evelyn received her B.S. in biology prides herself in being able to say she of the U.S. community. Those with se- from the University of Houston-Down- achieved her professional dream of vere criminal backgrounds did not and town in 2016. As an undergraduate, she being a registered nurse, BSN, cur- do not qualify for DACA. spent 3 years on a variety of research rently working in the shock therapy And this is a letter from Sisilia to projects that sparked her passion for ICU at a Level I trauma center in Congresswoman COLLEEN HANABUSA: ecology. In 2013, she helped to create a Utah. She graduated with high honors With this in mind, I respectfully ask planet-water transport model using from Utah Valley University in Decem- that you forgive DACA recipients and chaparral shrubs to test drought toler- ber 2016. urge you to pass legislation which al- ance in collaboration with Drs. Michael Thank you, Ana Cueva, for sharing lows DACA recipients to become U.S. Tobin, Brandon Pratt, and Anna your story with us. residents and protect the information Jacobson of California State Univer- Keyla Garcia Espino of Wyoming: they have turned to the Department of sity, Bakersfield. This is very impor- Kayla Garcia Espino came to the Homeland Security, in order to return tant research. United States when she was 5 years old peace of mind to these families imme- In 2014 and 2015, she worked under the from Mexico. In 2016 she earned her diately. It is only with your help that direction of Drs. Scott Mangan, Mi- bachelor’s degree in business adminis- we continue working for a better chael Tobin, and Claudia Stein at tration with a concentration in ac- America. Washington University in St. Louis, counting from Ferris State University. It is interesting, as we read these let- Tyson Research Center, where she Keyla is the deputy treasurer for the ters—I am sure my colleagues would studied phylogenetic relationships and city of East Grand Rapids and has been agree—to see how many families hesi- the effects of drought in prairie grass- working for the city for almost 3 years. tated to tell their children about their lands. Her DACA expires in October of 2018. status. I can understand why they would not want to frighten them, but As a second-year Ph.D. student in the May I correct the RECORD. She is not Department of Ecology and Evolution- from Wyoming—she is from Wyoming, nonetheless, when they do find out, ary Biology at the University of Cali- Michigan. Is that a city in Michigan? they are very shocked by it. We fornia, Irvine and Ford Foundation Wyoming? shouldn’t have that kind of fear and shock in our country, especially for our Predoctoral Fellowship, she is cur- This is from COLLEEN HANABUSA, who rently studying the effects of climate has been with us for a large part of the children. So while these parents took great change on the interaction between day, this testimony. Am I not lucky to risk, had great courage and determina- plants and their soil microbes. be able to become so familiar with so tion to protect their children, unfortu- She is dedicated to combining her many of these beautiful DREAMers? nately, we didn’t have comprehensive scientific training with mentoring of We want to send these people back? immigration reform soon enough to underrepresented minorities in STEM, This talent, this rich talent? This have avoided some of those sad situa- especially within the community of un- achievement, this determination, this tions. documented students. Evelyn aims to faith in the future, this patriotism for Congresswoman VELA´ ZQUEZ has an- inspire the next generation of sci- America? I don’t think so. other testimonial from a DREAMer. entists by pushing forward the mission b 1800 Yatziri Tovar is a young New Yorker to diversify STEM. and, yes, an American, who faces an Thank you for that, Evelyn. Again, We have to make it happen. I have confidence. uncertain future. many of the great discoveries in Amer- Yatziri Tovar came to the United Hi, my name is Sisilia Kaufusi. I am ica came from immigrants coming States from Mexico at age 2. She is a DACA recipient. My parents came to here. Many of the great academic American in every way—except on the United States of America seeking minds in our country came from an- paper. Last year, after a lot of hard the American Dream. I and my siblings other country. But then, at the same work, Yatziri graduated from City Col- came here when we were young. I was time, America produced our own, and lege in New York. She achieved this that is a pretty exciting combination. 4 when my mother and I came to the goal while holding down a job at the Ana Cueva: Ana Cueva was a young USofA. It was not until I was a senior same time she completed her studies. Mexican immigrant who has called in high school that I found out I had no Because she is undocumented, Yatziri Utah and the United States home since legal status in this country of opportu- was not able to secure financial aid. 1998 when she was 5 years old. We have nities. Now Yatziri is giving back by work- a number of DREAMers from Utah, so Today, I humbly ask that you issue ing with a community group that we thank them for speaking up. legal resident status to those who have stands up for and empowers some of From this young age, she was always benefited from President Obama’s De- her most vulnerable neighbors, like taught the importance of education, ferred Action for Childhood Arrivals other immigrants and low-income hard work, and family. Beyond the val- (DACA). President John F. Kennedy workers. ues her parents instilled in her, her fu- said: ‘‘Ask not what your country can Yatziri is exactly the type of person ture was also shaped when a year after do for you—ask what you can do for we want contributing to our Nation. arriving to this country her mom be- your country.’’ Over 700,000 people have Yet, Congress is now contemplating came very ill. This experience gave her benefited from this program. This pro- turning its back on young DREAMers a desire to help others, and she began gram had opened the doors for not only like Yatziri. This is shameful. For to forge a path on her journey to find myself, but other undocumented chil- young, patriotic people like Yatziri and her calling in nursing. In fact, nursing dren. Thanks to DACA, they have ob- for hundreds of thousands of young was solidified as her American Dream tained education, employment, and Americans—yes, Americans—we need when she was just 9 years old. other leadership roles with their com- to pass a Dream Act now. To achieve this dream, she under- munity. I appreciate this statement from stood how important it was to honor Within their community so that they Yatziri Tovar, but I hope that we can her parents’ decisions and dedicated can do something for our country. be more optimistic about the prospect herself to education and community. President-elect Trump said he will of not turning our back, but on em- As a teenager, she quickly became a end this program or allow this program bracing our DREAMers by having a dis- volunteer at her local hospital and to expire. By doing so, he is slamming cussion, a debate on the floor of the later was elected president of the Na- the door on the face of DACA recipi- House and passing legislation. tional Honor Society for her high ents, which will undoubtedly damage I hope the Speaker will give us in school chapter. She attended an accel- communities and the economy across this House of Representatives the dig- erated high school, earned her associ- the country, and perhaps even across nity that we deserve to be able to dis- ate’s degree in science at 17, and grad- the world. DACA recipients feel a sense cuss matters of concern to our con- uated in the top 10 percent of her sen- of danger, which is why I write this let- stituents on the floor of this House and ior class. ter today. People that have benefited have the House of Representatives She continued her studies a year from DACA have no other objective in work its will in order to address this later with the help of DACA. Now she mind than to become positive members issue.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:26 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00059 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.099 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE H964 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE February 7, 2018 The Senate has gotten that privi- We have been joined by Congress- am just telling you about the bipar- lege—not privilege—it is really a given, woman SCHAKOWSKY. I thank the gen- tisan ones. by the leader in the Senate, Mr. tlewoman for being with us; Congress- Mr. Speaker, I thank the staff of the MCCONNELL, in consultation with a bi- woman KATHY CASTOR. I acknowledged House of Representatives and the var- partisan group of Members, we have bi- the gentlewoman earlier. She was here ious speakers at the House who have partisan legislation, as has been said before. And in back is Congresswoman been up there with such courtesy—you over and over. What we do should be bi- CAROL SHEA-PORTER; Congresswoman smiled. You smiled. But most of all, let partisan, should be done openly, and ROBIN KELLY; Congressman STEVE us thank and acknowledge the should unify people. That should be a COHEN is with us; Congressman JOHN DREAMers for their courage, their op- rule of thumb for everything we do. It DELANEY. timism, and their inspiration to make is especially necessary to do this soon. I am trying to recognize just the ones America more American. Why? We ask the question: Why is I hadn’t acknowledged before: Con- I thank my colleagues. the House cut out of this discussion? gresswoman KATHERINE CLARK, Con- Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. Why? We need that answer from the gresswoman JULIA BROWNLEY, Con- Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time Speaker of the House. Why are we not gresswoman JACKIE SPEIER. I acknowl- as I may consume. Allow me to just say that we con- given our constitutional opportunity edged Congresswoman SUZAN DELBENE, tinue on this most important legisla- to discuss this important issue? Congressman BOBBY SCOTT, Congress- tion, H.R. 1153, and we have had the op- Just a few more from Members. woman DEBBIE WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, portunity to yield time to Leader Actually, I could stay here for the Congressman BRAD SHERMAN—I read PELOSI, and while she certainly came full 40 hours and do this, but I know your testimony earlier as I did yours, in to oppose this bill that we have be- that we have a vote to take, and the ALMA—Congressman DAVID CICILLINE, fore us, having yielded 1 minute to the rest. So let us just conclude with Car- Congresswoman YVETTE CLARKE—I leader is the most profound 1 minute los Aguilar, same last name as our co- read your testimony earlier as well. sponsors of the Hurd-Aguilar bill—no All the others I think I have ac- probably in the history of this institu- tion, that 1 minute that ended up 8 relation. knowledged. Yes, HANK JOHNSON from hours where Leader PELOSI talked Carlos migrated to the United States Georgia, Congressman HANK JOHNSON. I from Irapuato, Mexico, at the age of 14 think we have acknowledged all of the about the plight of DACA and the and currently lives in Kerrville, Texas. Members who are here. Congresswoman DREAMers. And I am very proud that in yielding After graduating from high school, he GWEN MOORE, I acknowledged earlier that 1 minute we had the opportunity received his B.A. in psychology from when she was sitting over here. I will to listen to Leader PELOSI deal with an Schreiner University. Carlos has also tell the gentlewoman who she was sit- issue and demand that we have an op- earned an M.S. in sociology at the Uni- ting next to. She was sitting next to portunity to have a real debate and a versity of Texas at San Antonio. Cur- Congresswoman NIKI TSONGAS at that real discussion in the people’s House. rently, he is attending the Harvard time, but anyway, I acknowledge the Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased that Graduate School of Education where he gentlewoman again and thank her. we had that opportunity, and now let is pursuing a doctoral degree. Mr. Speaker, for the last 8 hours, I me just say, I have no further requests Aware of the obstacles along undocu- have had the privilege of reading the for time, and I am prepared to close. mented students’ road, Carlos has de- testimony of so many DREAMers. I Mr. Speaker, American consumers voted his academic and professional en- still have more, but I thank all of you. are under attack by the Trump admin- deavors to issues relating to unauthor- It is a privilege to read the eloquent istration and Republicans in Congress ized migration as well as providing sup- statements of the DREAMers as they every day. We learn about either an- port and guidance for this vulnerable express their love of America, their other effort to weaken guardrails, pro- population. commitment to a better future for our tecting consumers from predatory ac- In addition to academic attention to country and their own families’ better tors, or another Trump appointee re- these issues, Carlos has remained ac- future. fusing to hold bad actors accountable. tive in the immigrant community as It was a double honor to do so with Trump supporters at the Consumer the Immigrant Youth Leadership coor- the recommendations of the testimony Financial Protection Bureau and the dinator at UTSA—that is University of that you all extended, presented, and Securities and Exchange Commission Texas at San Antonio—as an associate to have so many of you here in the have basically stopped enforcing our legal assistant in an immigrant law course of the day, a real tribute to the Nation’s consumer and security laws. firm. respect that we have for our DREAM- He has many accomplishments. ers. b 1815 Moreover, together with other un- So I accept your applause on behalf Mr. Speaker, as you know, there is a documented and DACA students, Car- of them because it was their story, in lot of excitement here because of what los coordinated students’ efforts at their words—by and large—that I told, took place in the last 8 hours, so I UTSA—University of Texas at San An- in addition to the Bible and the Catho- don’t feel interrupted at all. I just feel tonio—in mobilizing to defend their lic Conference of Bishops and Pope very, very pleased that we had the op- rights as undocumented and DACA stu- Francis and Pope Benedict and so portunity to have that speech by our dents. Through the creation of Immi- many other religious groups that we leader. grant Youth Leadership, they advo- have. But I thank all of you. However, I will just continue. Let me cated and worked to improve the edu- Our basic request is: honor the House just get to the fact that, again, Mick cational experience of this population. of Representatives. Give us a chance to Mulvaney, whom Trump unlawfully ap- I am just going to one more from have a vote on the floor. pointed as Acting Director of the Con- California. I have to end on California. The Republican leader in the Senate, sumer Bureau, is gutting the Consumer Kimberly came to the United States MITCH MCCONNELL, has gone forward Bureau’s Office of Fair Lending Equal from Mexico and currently resides in with the budget proposal with the Opportunity limiting the Consumer Los Angeles. She is the only person in promise that he will give that oppor- Bureau’s ability to stop bad actors her family without papers and, in spite tunity to the floor of the Senate. The from discriminating against commu- of the challenge, has risen to the occa- Senate will work its will. We will see nities of color. sion as an advocate for DREAMers. She what they produce. News reports also suggest that implemented a resolution supporting We will work our will here and see Mulvaney has slowed down the Con- DREAMers at her local community col- what we produce, but it must be bipar- sumer Bureau’s investigation of Wells lege. She is involved in the advocacy tisan, transparent, and unifying. We Fargo, the ultimate example of a recid- community in Victorville and spent think that there has been a lot of ivist megabank. Wells Fargo has pub- time as an intern in Congressman groundwork. In our case, the Hurd- licly admitted to ripping off millions of COOK’s office—bipartisan. Aguilar bill is one option. The Senate Americans with fraudulent checking She hopes to become a lawyer one bill may be another option. There may accounts, credit cards, forced-placed day. be other options that are proposed. I auto insurance, and much, much more.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:51 Feb 08, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00060 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K07FE7.100 H07FEPT1 lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with HOUSE February 7, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H965 But the Trump administration has a and Americans may think it had great- b 1835 partner in its efforts to undermine con- er eloquence. sumer protections. House Republicans I would note that as the minority AFTER RECESS have been in lockstep with the Presi- leader quoted the Bible frequently The recess having expired, the House dent when it comes to rolling back con- throughout her speech, it reminds me was called to order by the Speaker pro sumer protections. Take the Consumer of Isaiah 1:18, ‘‘Come now, let us reason tempore (Mr. BERGMAN) at 6 o’clock Bureau’s rule on forced arbitration: together, says the Lord.’’ and 35 minutes p.m. Wall Street lobbied hard against this Yet President Trump stood right f rule, and instead of putting consumers there in the State of the Union Address first, House Republicans passed a Con- with his hand out with an olive branch HOUR OF MEETING ON TOMORROW gressional Review Act resolution to re- extending an open hand to work with Mr. MITCHELL. Mr. Speaker, pursu- peal a rule that would have helped con- Members of both parties on an immi- ant to clause 4 of rule XVI, I move that sumers who have been wronged by the gration reform package. He offered a when the House adjourns today, it ad- big banks to join together to hold them fair compromise. He offered a fair com- journ to meet at 9 a.m. tomorrow for accountable. promise, and, instead, the minority morning-hour debate and 10 a.m. for But that is just one example of how leader slapped his hand and called it in- legislative business. House Republicans have tried to under- sulting, Mr. Speaker. She called it The motion was agreed to. mine consumer laws. For years now, lame. She called it dangerous. f they have tried to cut the funding of This is not someone who has come to the Consumer Bureau or to change its this Chamber, the people’s House, in ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER structure, and having failed in those order to make law. The President PRO TEMPORE attempts, they now have their inside didn’t offer legalization. He offered a The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- man, Mick Mulvaney, who is working pathway to citizenship. He didn’t offer ant to clause 8 of rule XX, proceedings to destroy the Bureau from within. We this for 700,000. He offered it for 1.8 mil- will resume on questions previously shouldn’t be surprised since the chair- lion. He said: postponed. man of the Financial Services Com- Let’s secure our borders, and let’s make Votes will be taken in the following mittee has said he wants to ‘‘finan- sure that immigrants who come to this coun- order: cially terminate’’ the Consumer Bu- try come legally and come with their sleeves Suspending the rules and passing rolled up coming to work and build America. reau. H.R. 3851, if ordered; The bill before us today should be There are those who want to solve a Suspending the rules and passing viewed as one part of this long line of problem, and there are those who want H.R. 1997, if ordered; and attempts by my colleagues on the op- to exacerbate a problem for the elec- Agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of posite side of the aisle to undermine tion. the Journal, if ordered. the fundamental consumer protection. Meanwhile, Mr. Speaker, hard- The first electronic vote will be con- Home buyers should not be gouged or working Americans need the oppor- ducted as a 15-minute vote. Remaining swindled just because they want to own tunity to get mortgages to buy their electronic votes will be conducted as 5- a home. H.R. 1153 would legitimize part of the American Dream. Every- minute votes. predatory kickbacks through affiliated thing that the ranking member said, firms. Megabanks, including bad actors she ought to share it with her own f like Wells Fargo, and other lenders Democrats because half of them on our WAR CRIMES REWARDS would be incentivized to steer their committee support H.R. 1533 which is EXPANSION ACT borrowers into more costly products good for America and good for prospec- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- simply because they can. tive home buyers. finished business is the question on H.R. 1153 is a bad bill that will only Mr. Speaker, I encourage all House suspending the rules and passing the line the pockets of Wall Street with Members to adopt it, and I yield back bill (H.R. 3851) to amend the State De- the hard-earned savings of Main Street. the balance of my time. partment Basic Authorities Act of 1956 But don’t just take my word for it. The SPEAKER pro tempore. All time to provide for rewards for the arrest or Civil rights groups and consumer advo- for debate has expired. conviction of certain foreign nationals cates all agree that this is bad for Pursuant to House Resolution 725, who have committed genocide or war America. the previous question is ordered on the crimes, and for other purposes, as So, despite all of the excitement that bill. amended. we have had here on the floor today The question is on the engrossment The Clerk read the title of the bill. with Leader PELOSI and the message and third reading of the bill. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The that she brought to this Congress, I The bill was ordered to be engrossed question is on the motion offered by want all of our Members to simply re- and read a third time, and was read the the gentleman from California (Mr. ject President Trump’s and House Re- third time. ROYCE) that the House suspend the publicans’ attack on consumers. Vote The SPEAKER pro tempore. The rules and pass the bill, as amended. ‘‘no’’ on H.R. 1153 and support Leader question is on the passage of the bill. The question was taken. PELOSI in calling for a debate in this The question was taken; and the The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the House on the issue dealing with DACA Speaker pro tempore announced that opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being and the DREAMers. the ayes appeared to have it. in the affirmative, the ayes have it. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, on Mr. MITCHELL. Mr. Speaker, on of my time. that I demand the yeas and nays. that I demand the yeas and nays. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. The yeas and nays were ordered. The yeas and nays were ordered. BERGMAN). The gentleman from Texas The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- 1 The vote was taken by electronic de- has 2 ⁄2 minutes remaining. ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro- vice, and there were—yeas 407, nays 0, Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I ceedings on this question will be post- not voting 23, as follows: yield myself the balance of my time. poned. Mr. Speaker, we could not be more [Roll No. 61] highly honored that the minority lead- f YEAS—407 er would take such an interest in H.R. RECESS Abraham Bacon Beyer 1533, the Mortgage Choice Act. Adams Banks (IN) Biggs I am reminded that there are Mem- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Aderholt Barletta Bilirakis bers who come to this great Chamber ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair Aguilar Barr Bishop (GA) Allen Barton Bishop (MI) to make speeches, and there are those declares the House in recess for a pe- Amash Bass Bishop (UT) who come to make laws. When it comes riod of less than 15 minutes. Amodei Beatty Black to speeches, I would note that the Get- Accordingly (at 6 o’clock and 22 min- Arrington Bera Blackburn tysburg Address came in at 2 minutes, utes p.m.), the House stood in recess. Babin Bergman Blum

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