Following is a statement by Association of American Universities President Mary Sue Coleman regarding the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program:
As the courts continue to review the administration’s decision to end DACA protections, it is now clear that Congress must urgently act to protect the many young men and women faced with an uncertain future. Brought to the U.S. as children, many are now students, scholars, and scientists at our universities, contributing to the economy and our scientific enterprise. AAU and its 60 U.S. universities urge Congress to immediately pass legislation to make DACA protections permanent.
Though we recognize the good faith efforts of many in Congress, we cannot continue to let these talented young people continue to live in legal limbo. We strongly urge Congress to set aside partisan differences and pass legislation this fall to protect DACA participants.
Founded in 1900, the Association of American Universities comprises 62 distinguished institutions that continually advance society through education, research, and discovery.
Our universities earn the majority of competitively awarded federal funding for academic research, are improving human life and wellbeing through research, and are educating tomorrow’s visionary leaders and global citizens.
AAU members collectively help shape policy for higher education, science, and innovation; promote best practices in undergraduate and graduate education; and strengthen the contributions of research universities to society.