Hi there,

My name is Dania Quezada, and I am a law intern at the National Immigration Law Center. I am reaching out to share my story as a DACA recipient and ask for your support in urging Congress to pass a pathway to citizenship for immigrant youth.

Growing up in Southern California in an undocumented family, school was my sanctuary. Though I didn't initially understand the significance of Plyler v. Doe, the Supreme Court ruling that ensured my right to an education, it became the foundation of my journey.

When DACA was created during my high school years, my sister and I worked tirelessly on our applications, knowing how much it meant for our futures. I remember crying hard, clutching my employment authorization and Social Security Number when they arrived. These were more than legal documents — they were catalysts that would transform my life.

Today, I am living proof of the impact of DACA — it empowered me to obtain a college education, contribute to my family and community’s wellbeing, and even begin law school. Through DACA, I have achieved many of my dreams. However, I am by no means the young person who first applied over ten years ago. Like anyone else, I have grown up and my life and dreams have evolved. Yet, my status has not.

Like so many of my peers, the chronic uncertainty around what will happen to DACA takes a toll on me. There have been times when I questioned my future in the United States. I know this country is my home, but the relentless political attacks chip away at my hope. Thankfully, in these hard moments, I draw strength from my family, my community, and people like you.

As a legal intern at NILC, I have witnessed incredible commitment to the fight for immigrant justice. Just this summer, I celebrated DACA recipients finally getting access to affordable, quality health care after years of advocacy. I have helped farmworkers apply for temporary protections so they can stand up to abusive employers. I have even participated in strategy sessions, mapping out long-term plans to build immigrant power. In these moments, I know resoundingly that this is my fight, and my home is here. More specifically, my home is with you — with those who put in the work for justice.

So, if ever you feel hesitant or tempted to give up, please remember my story and stay in this fight with us.

Now, more than ever, we need to work together. I urge you to send a message to your members of Congress and demand a pathway to citizenship. Our dreams and futures depend on it. Let's ensure that every young immigrant can work and live in the U.S. and fully participate in society without fear of deportation.

Thank you for your continued support and for being a part of this movement.

With gratitude and determination,

Dania Quezada
Law Intern
National Immigration Law Center