Mr. President, 10 years ago I introduced the DREAM Act legislation that would allow a select group of immigrant students with great potential to contribute more fully to America. The DREAM Act would give these students a chance to earn legal status if they: came to the United States as children; are long-term U.S. residents; have good moral character; graduate from high school; and complete 2 years of college or military service in good standing. The DREAM Act would make America a stronger country by giving these talented immigrants the chance to serve in our military and contribute to our economy. Tens of thousands of highly qualified, well-educated young people would enlist in the Armed Forces if the DREAM Act becomes law. And studies have found that DREAM Act participants would contribute literally trillions of dollars to the U.S. economy during their working lives. These young people have overcome great obstacles to succeed. They are valedictorians, star athletes, honor roll students, and R.O.T.C. leaders. Now they want to give back to their country. The DREAM Act would give them that chance. For the last 10 years I have been working on the DREAM Act, there has been one constant: strong support from the faith community. The DREAM Act is supported by almost every religious group you can imagine: Catholic, Methodist, Episcopal, Lutheran, and Evangelical Christians; Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform Jews; and Muslims, Hindus, and Sikhs.…
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