Statement on the Introduction of the Dream Act of 2025: Pathway to Citizenship Cannot Wait Any Longer
For Immediate Release
Media Contact: [email protected]
December 5, 2025 (Washington, D.C.) — On December 4, 2025, U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) reintroduced the bipartisan Dream Act, which would provide a pathway to citizenship for individuals who have lived in the U.S. for most of their lives, contributing to our communities and economy.
The reintroduction of the Dream Act comes at a critical time when the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy is being dangerously dismantled, and DACA recipients are being unlawfully detained. The attacks against DACA leave nearly half a million people at risk of being deported, separated from their communities and families, and uprooted from their professional and academic pursuits. Moreover, about 1.16 million of DACA-eligible youth have not been able to benefit from this program, making the Dream Act all the more urgent. This legislation will allow individuals who have primarily lived, studied, and worked in the U.S. for most of their lives to become citizens, fully contribute to our economy, and feel safe and welcome in the country they’ve called home.
As he prepares to enter his final year as a Senator, Immigrants Rising thanks Senator Durbin for his unwavering support of undocumented youth and for introducing the Dream Act since 2001 despite setbacks and challenges. We also thank Senator Murkowski for her support and leadership on this bipartisan solution.
“This year, the undocumented community has faced attacks at unprecedented levels. Despite the overwhelming challenges that are placed against them, undocumented people—who are students, educators, doctors, innovators, employers, community leaders, and more—have pursued higher education, attained professional licenses, and become part of a strong economic workforce. And yet, their ability to fully contribute remains constrained by outdated immigration policies. Congress now has a concrete, bipartisan solution that works toward solving the immigration crisis we’re witnessing and bringing long-overdue stability and permanent protections for immigrant youth and DACA recipients. I also extend my gratitude to Senator Durbin for his relentless leadership on the federal Dream Act for years,” said Dr. Iliana Perez, Executive Director of Immigrants Rising.
At this crucial time, Congress has the opportunity and responsibility to provide permanent protections for the undocumented through the Dream Act. We encourage everyone to stay connected and consider taking the following actions:
- Send letters to your Senators and demand that they co-sponsor the Dream Act.
- Text HOME IS HERE to 787-57 to receive the latest updates and resources on DACA.
- Keep renewing your DACA. Click here for a step-by-step guide.
- Be prepared for a future beyond DACA. This page is created for people with and without DACA.
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Founded in 2006, Immigrants Rising transforms individuals and fuels broader changes. With resources and support, undocumented young people are able to get an education, pursue careers, and build a brighter future for themselves and their community. Our collective power is helping our nation edge closer to fulfilling its ideal as a land of opportunity and access for all.
