Cleveland, OH - Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi issued the following statement today after the Department of Homeland Security began implementation of a directive protecting one million DREAM-eligible youth from deportation:

“Today, because of the strong action of President Obama, Secretary Napolitano, and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, is an extraordinarily hopeful day for more than a million young people raised and educated here in America but left in legal limbo through no fault of their own. 

“It was one of the proudest accomplishments of the Democratic-led House to pass the DREAM Act with a bipartisan vote in 2010; it was one of our great disappointments to see action blocked by Republicans in the Senate.  Democrats will continue to push to pass the DREAM Act and to enact bipartisan comprehensive immigration reform that secures our borders, upholds the rule of law, protects our workers, unites families, and provides a pathway to legalization.

“The undocumented young people who have pursued education and military service and are eager to participate in our nation's future will now have a measure of relief.  This administrative action strengthens our economy and reflects the best values of our nation.”