Yin Representative Government: Dream Act

Many young undocumented immigrants growing up in the United States live under threat of deportation. They are often unable to achieve college educations or find work.

The DREAM Act does not automatically make anyone eligible for U.S. citizenship. It does, however, provide a clear path for young immigrants to attain citizenship and certain key benefits. To earn U.S. citizenship under the provisions of the DREAM Act, an undocumented immigrant must have been younger than sixteen when he or she first came to this country; must have been in the United States for at least five years; must have earned a high school diploma or a GED; and must be “of good moral character.” The applicant must not have a criminal record or pose a terrorist threat.

Anyone wishing to pursue this course to citizenship would be required to provide a significant amount of personal data and undergo a variety of security and criminal background checks. They would also need a thorough medical examination and would have to register for selective service, i.e., the military draft. Then, after either two years of college or military service, these qualifying young people would be granted permanent resident status.

"DREAM Act." Opposing Viewpoints Online Collection. Detroit: Gale, 2012. Opposing Viewpoints In Context. Web. 3 Mar. 2013.