Dear Representative,

I am writing to strongly urge you to support the reintroduction of the Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors Act (DREAM Act) and the Student Adjustment Act before Congress adjourns. The passage of this legislation would enable deserving students to achieve their dream of pursuing a higher education as well as provide a path to legalization.

Legislation such as the DREAM Act and the Student Adjustment Act is critical to the Latino community. These bills would permit children who by no choice of their own were brought here by their parents - children who are long time permanent residents, grew up here, have good moral character, and have graduated form high school - to go to college, become legal residents, and work legally.

The President’s advisory commission on educational excellence for Hispanic Americans has also clearly stated that it aims to ensure that all children of Hispanic heritage, regardless of where they were born or when they came to this country, have the same opportunities for educational advancement.

Please help us help those children who are committed to making a different in their lives and the well being of their families, as well as contribute to the economic well-being of this country. Income is directly proportional to educational attainment. By passing this law these exemplary students would help to double the rate of Hispanic college graduates by the year 2010, which would produce additional tax revenue of $13 billion through reduced public spending and increased tax contributions.

This is an issue of moral clarity. If we don’t do something for these children now, we risk dooming a generation of young people living within our borders who have no homeland, no opportunities, and no hope.