DACA Ruling From A Dreamer’s Perspective
Adriana Campos shares her feelings on case’s impact for the future
Relief. That is the first way I felt as I heard the Supreme Court decision on DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals).
This decision meant that I would be able to keep my job, be safe from deportation, and be able to continue with my life in the United States, my home. When I heard the news, I was with my little sister working on some math problems while my mom was at work. I couldn’t help but wonder what it would be like for her, a 7-year-old, if my parents or I were to be deported. Her world would completely change.
The feeling of relief was temporary. It brought on a reminder that at any moment it can all change. At any moment, one of my biggest fears can come true. At any moment, everything I have worked for is gone. The fear of my family being separated, of being sent away to live at a place I have no memory of and being forced to start over, the fear of having my life in the hands of strangers and not knowing what my future holds.
Lastly, I felt hope. Hope that there are some people who believe in us as productive members of society, as Dreamers, as human beings. I have hope that this battle that has been won in the Supreme Court is not only a conversation starter but a starter of change needed in legislation for Dreamers and our families. I have Hope that God will move hearts and minds of this country, and we will be given the opportunity to live here free of fear. I hope to be able to plan for my future, more than two years at a time.
My aspiration is to attend graduate school. I want to be able to work in my community, specifically with vulnerable populations such as the elderly, immigrants/refugees or special needs individuals. I want to be able to give back to those who in many occasions can get overlooked. I believe graduate school will prepare me and further educate me for whichever area I choose to pursue.
Even though my future remains in limbo, I can’t help but plan for one here. This is my home, this is all I know. I dream of the day I no longer have to worry about deportation, my family or my future. I anxiously await that day, and I hope it comes soon.
Adriana Campos came to the United States when she was 3. She is a Texas Woman’s University graduate and works with children with special needs.
Published: Tuesday, June 23, 2020