Local groups plan DACA informational event

A group of nonprofits, religious organizations and local attorneys will be hosting an information session about the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals policy today, days after President Donald Trump announced his decision to rescind it.

The 6 p.m. event at Howard High School is a collaborative effort by the office of International Community Outreach at Chattanooga State, La Paz Chattanooga, Catholic charities and the Tennessee Imigrants and Refugees Rights Coalition, according to a news release.

Gladys Pineda-Loher, director of the International Community Outreach at Chattanooga State, released the statement, encouraging anyone with an interest in the event to attend.

“Over the last 5 years, I’ve seen how DACA has transformed the lives of local students, opening doors they never thought possible and giving them hope for a brighter future,” she wrote in the statement.

“Our local DACA students are thriving — studying engineering, business, nursing, and education. But now, their future and their contributions are hanging in the balance.”

Pineda-Loher said Trump’s decision will have repercussions for years, forcing individuals out of schools and workplaces. She also called on Tennessee Senators Bob Corker and lamar Alexander to pass the Dream Act to allow those affected to remain.

She also stated she stands with those same individuals.

“While local immigrant students and myself are processing the recent announcement and wrestling with fear and anger, we will be ready to fight for their right to stay here,” she wrote.

“From the tuition opportunity campaign to now, immigrant youth have inspired me to stand with them and advocate for policies that give them more opportunities. Not a day will go by that we won’t work to pass the Dream Act.”