Farmworker Justice Statement on Supreme Court Decision to Review Legality of President Obama’s Executive Action on Immigration

Today we celebrate the news that the United States Supreme Court will review the legality of President Obama’s executive action on immigration. The DAPA and expanded DACA programs are on hold due to a district court injunction, which was upheld by the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals in the case Texas v. U.S.

We are hopeful that the Supreme Court will recognize that the lower courts have committed a serious error that perpetuates our terribly broken, inhumane immigration system and stops the federal government from reasonably exercising its lawful authority. The programs are well within the President’s authority and are a limited but important step toward addressing our broken immigration system.

“This case is vitally important to farmworker families, their communities and the agricultural system,” said Bruce Goldstein, President of Farmworker Justice. “DAPA and DACA could provide temporary relief to an estimated 700,000 farmworkers and their family members. At least half the farm labor force is undocumented, which contributes to the low wages and labor abuses in the fields. The Supreme Court should allow DAPA and expanded DACA to go forward. By eliminating the constant fear of deportation, farmworkers and other aspiring Americans will be able to contribute more fully to their communities and will be empowered in their workplaces."

We will continue to defend President Obama’s administrative actions until the fight for administrative relief is successful. Farmworker Justice is working with groups throughout the country to support and plan implementation of the DAPA/DACA programs and to win legislation that creates a path to citizenship for undocumented farmworker families and other aspiring Americans.