In an age where immigration laws are frequently changing, up to date knowledge on legal policies is important, especially to Californians.
On Nov. 20, 2014, President Obama delivered a speech explaining the steps he plans to take in his executive order to fix immigration issues. It is estimated that about five million immigrants will be able to apply to live in the United States without fearing deportation.
“If you’ve been in America for more than five years; if you have children who are American citizens or legal residents; if you register, pass a criminal background check, and you’re willing to pay your fair share of taxes-you’ll be able to apply to stay in this country temporarily without fear of deportation. You can come out of the shadows and get right with the law,” said Obama in his address.
These conditions do not apply to future undocumented immigrants, nor do they apply to criminals.
“Immigration is not an easy thing. Moving to a different place without knowing anyone-except your family, it’s hard,” said Lauren Juarez, who came to the United States for high school.
“One thing I want people to know about immigration is that you can study and go to a good school. Maybe you can go to college here too,” said Julia Lowell, who came to California for a better education.
Senior Pearl Lee, who moved to the San Francisco Bay Area from China, brings up common misconceptions about undocumentation.
“I think people need to realize that immigration is not a derogatory term in itself and that the ‘illegal immigrants’ many frame are actually doing jobs others refuse to do,” said Lee.
Although Obama’s executive order does not apply to all undocumented immigrants, in the future, there may be changes to immigration laws.
For those who are concerned about changes in immigration laws, check www.whitehouse.gov for updates.
