AJC Calls Senate's Rejection of DREAM Act 'Missed Opportunity'

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Dec 18, 2010, 04:40 ET

NEW YORK, Dec. 18, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- AJC is profoundly disappointed that the U.S. Senate has rejected the DREAM Act.

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"Our Senators have left so many young people unnecessarily in continuing limbo," said Ann Schaffer, director of AJC's Belfer Center for American Pluralism. "Instead of creating a clear path for the many undocumented young people who have graduated American high schools and are eager to go on to college and contribute to our economy and society, the Senate has delivered a stunning and painful message that they are not welcome."

The DREAM Act failed by a vote of 55-41, with a minimum of 60 votes needed to advance the bill. The House, 216 to 198, passed the DREAM Act earlier this month.

DREAM (Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors) would provide individuals who came to the United States at an early age opportunities, regardless of their current immigration status, to pursue higher education and contribute to American society.

Since its founding in 1906, AJC has been a strong voice in support of fair and generous immigration policies, characterized by the rule of law. AJC advocates for bipartisan support for comprehensive immigration reform.

www.ajc.org

SOURCE American Jewish Committee