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Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) released the following statement regarding the Biden-Harris Administration’s action to ensure that U.S. citizens with noncitizen spouses and children are able to keep their families together:

“As we commemorated 12 years of America being uplifted and bettered by DACA earlier this month, we were each reminded of the vast contributions undocumented individuals continue to bring to our communities through their determination, talents, and devotion to an often-ungrateful nation. Undocumented Americans have come to represent an irreplaceable element of our social and economic fabric – yet far too many have remained plagued by uncertainty surrounding their status. Thankfully, through the Biden-Harris Administration’s historic action today, we are on the humanitarian path forward.

“This policy change stands among the most significant steps to protect immigrants and their families since President Obama first announced DACA. For undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens whose future in our nation is now secured, the many children living in mixed-status households who were at risk of losing a parent to deportation, and the countless other Americans who are proud to hold an undocumented person close to their hearts, the immediate and meaningful impact of this moment cannot be overstated. President Biden’s announcement is an essential step in our fight to provide undocumented Americans the lives they deserve, and the stability we are each entitled to. Moreover, it upholds the truth that our first priority is, and must always be, to keep families together.

“But make no mistake – despite today’s landmark announcement, we must not lose sight of the road ahead. Securing a pathway to citizenship is as necessary now as ever before. With this Administration’s dedication to supporting immigrant families of every background and within every community, I am optimistic that we will reach the progress undocumented individuals have long awaited.”