Some North Texas students and their families are concerned about the future of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Act (DACA) program and their futures in the United States.
“They are good kids and want what all young people want, which is to prove themselves,” said Max Krochmal, an associate professor of history at Texas Christian University.
Krochmal is not only a professor, but he has also become a shoulder to lean on.
“They’re terrified, and they’re heartbroken, and they're scared,” he said. “I can see how scared they are, and I really worry for them, and I think they have every right to be terrified right now.”
He explained that many of the students are not only concerned for themselves, but also their families.
“They took a leap of faith based on DACA. They gave the most personal information about themselves and their families to the federal government,” he said. “And put themselves at risk because they believe in the American dream.”
One of those TCU students is Raul Romero of Fort Worth.
Local
The latest news from around North Texas.
“Now that they have my information, location where we live [and] where my parents are right now… what really worries me is how easily they could get not only to me but to my parents,” he said.
Romero is interning in Washington, D.C., hoping for a strong and fruitful future.
“We are extremely educated [and] extremely hard-working,” he said. “I want to go to law school, and I don't know how legitimate that can actually become.”
North Texas educators are now showing their support as well.
Fort Worth ISD’s Board of Trustees unanimously approved a resolution supporting DACA recipients.
Fort Worth ISD Superintendent Dr. Kent Scribner posted support on his Facebook page:
“If the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Act (DACA) is allowed to expire, it would have a devastating effect on members of the Fort Worth ISD family. Current high school seniors who have college within reach could be forced to alter their post-secondary plans. Our graduates currently in college may not be able to successfully move their lives forward. The impact this decision will have on many students and their families in the Fort Worth ISD community will be far-reaching.
“Washington decides immigration policy. Our job is to educate students – ALL students, every student.”
