Members of the Coalition on Human Needs congratulate the 237 members of the House of Representatives whose votes to enact the American Dream and Promise Act (H.R. 6) took us forward, towards the more just and inclusive nation Americans want and need.

The vote for the American Dream and Promise Act was a long time coming.  It was made possible by the courage of Dreamers and immigrants here through Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) status.  They came forward to remind us that they are essential members of our communities.  Fighting alongside them are their neighbors, extended families, colleagues, fellow students, congregants, and others who recognize that we cannot afford to lose them.

We thank Speaker Pelosi for her leadership.  In her floor speech supporting this historic vote, she said “These Dreamers are the constant reinvigoration of America.”  In supporting the Dreamers and TPS and DED holders, Speaker Pelosi and other key champions including Representatives Lofgren, Roybal-Allard, Velazquez, Nadler, Jayapal, Clark, and others, are leading us towards a better future.

We urge the Senate to adopt H.R. 6 now.  There is bipartisan and strong public support for ending the fear and uncertainty afflicting more than two million of our neighbors.  Holding them back is denying all of us the full contributions they can make to our economy and our social and cultural fabric.