The Fifth Circuit’s Decision is a Temporary Setback for Millions Seeking Relief Under DACA and DAPA

May 26, 2015

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit denied the Department of Justice’s request for an emergency stay. In response to today’s decision, LULAC National Executive Director Brent Wilkes issued the following statement:

“We are disappointed by the decision of the Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit denying the DOJ’s motion for emergency stay, which would have permitted implementation of the Deferred Action for Parental Accountability (DAPA) and the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) programs. As a result, millions of immigrants who are eligible under DAPA or DACA will continue to be denied the opportunity to participate in the American dream.

The lawsuit filed by twenty-six states is a politically-motivated action that does nothing to address the human consequences of a broken immigration system. We urge these state leaders to stop engaging in wasteful litigation and instead support common sense immigration reform that benefits all Americans.

LULAC remains confident that upon hearing all arguments on appeal, the Fifth Circuit will hold the Executive Orders to be constitutional, and will thus permit the full implementation of DACA and DAPA. In the meantime, LULAC will continue to fight for the livelihood and dignity of immigrants across this country. These hard working individuals make meaningful contributions to our society every day and must not be forgotten.”