The plight of Indian-American immigrant children facing deportation

• Immediate administrative action is essential to address this issue until a permanent legislative solution, such as the proposed America’s Children Act, can be passed

• The bipartisan support from Congress and the public highlights the urgency and the potential benefits of resolving this crisis

PRAVASISAMWAD.COM

A growing crisis looms over approximately 250,000 children of legal immigrants in the United States, many of whom are Indian-Americans. These young individuals, who came to the U.S. as children, now face the risk of deportation upon turning 21 due to the expiration of their dependent visa status.

Despite their upbringing and education in the United States, these “Documented Dreamers” are at risk of being sent back to countries where they have no ties. The White House has placed the blame for the legislative deadlock on Republican lawmakers. “They voted it down twice,” White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated, referring to efforts to pass legislation that would offer protections for these young individuals.

A bipartisan group of 43 lawmakers, led by Senator Alex Padilla and Representative Deborah Ross, recently urged the Biden Administration to take swift action to safeguard these children. In a June 13 letter, they highlighted the plight of these young people who are stuck in a lengthy green-card backlog, despite having approved immigrant petitions.

• The administration has heard numerous accounts of American-raised talent, particularly in STEM and healthcare, leaving the country due to these barriers

• Patel warned that the U.S. is not only losing these young talents but also their experienced parents, which poses a clear economic and moral dilemma

Organizations like Improve The Dream are advocating for these individuals. Dip Patel, the founder of the organization, expressed frustration over the lack of action and called for immediate administrative reforms. He emphasized the bipartisan support for this issue and the necessity for a permanent solution.

Personal stories of affected individuals underscore the severity of the situation. Jefrina, a graduate student at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, described her precarious status and the uncertainty she faces after spending most of her life in the U.S. Similarly, Praneetha, a Cloud Engineer in Texas, and Roshan, who was recently forced to leave the country, illustrate the ongoing challenges.

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