Former U.S. President Barack Obama has reaffirmed his support for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, calling it a vital example of America’s ability to balance its identity as a nation of immigrants with its legal framework.
In a recent statement through his official X account, Obama reflected on the program’s origins during his administration, highlighting its purpose: to protect undocumented young people who were raised in the United States and view it as their only home.
“Thirteen years ago, my administration acted to protect young people who were American in every single way but one: on paper,” Obama said. He emphasized that DACA represents the possibility of compassionate governance—“a nation of immigrants and a nation of laws.”
The former president voiced concern over the growing hostility faced by immigrant families today. “Families with similar backgrounds who just want to live, work, and support their communities are being demonized and treated as enemies,” he lamented.
Obama’s remarks come amid intensifying political debates over immigration policies and the future of DACA, which continues to face legal challenges. He urged leaders to reform the broken immigration system while upholding human dignity and shared values.
“We can fix our broken immigration system while still recognizing our common humanity and treating each other with dignity and respect,” Obama stressed. “In fact, it’s the only way we ever will.”
His message stands as a reminder of the program’s original intent and the moral imperative to treat all people—regardless of origin—with fairness and empathy.
Author: Bashir Juma
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