In the face of ongoing political and legal challenges surrounding the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, Houston resident Eliana Muñoz is sharing her journey as a Dreamer to highlight the human impact of the program and what could happen if it’s revoked.
Eliana, who came to the United States from Ecuador at the age of six, recalls the circumstances that brought her family to the U.S.
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“My dad was in the military in Ecuador and got into a helicopter accident. He needed medical treatments, so we stayed,” she said. “We came here with a legal visa, but sometimes I feel like it’s misunderstood that all Dreamers came here illegally, which isn’t true.”
Now a mother and a homeowner, Eliana has built a life in Houston, thanks in large part to the opportunities DACA has provided. “Thanks to DACA, I get to work, buy a house, and pay taxes,” she said. “It’s helped me provide for my kids and build a life here. They call us Dreamers because we want to become somebody and contribute to this country.”
What Is DACA?
Immigration attorney Naimeh Salem explains that DACA, established in 2012 through an executive order, provides young immigrants with protection from deportation, a work permit, and access to a Social Security number and driver’s license.
“It’s a good benefit for those kids,” Salem said. “It allows them to live and work legally in the only country they’ve ever known.”
However, Salem emphasized that DACA recipients face significant challenges. “DACA doesn’t provide a path to citizenship or permanent residency. The only way to gain those statuses is through other legal means, like marriage to a U.S. citizen or a family petition,” she said.
Fear of Losing DACA
Eliana, like many DACA recipients, worries about the program’s uncertain future.
“I’ve been through so many struggles, but God has always shown me grace,” she said. “Even when we lost our house and had nothing, trusting God gave me peace through it all. But I still feel nervous for myself and others. What happens if DACA goes away?”
Salem says Eliana’s concerns are valid, as losing DACA could lead to devastating consequences for recipients and the U.S. economy.
“If DACA is revoked, recipients are subject to deportation,” Salem said. “We’re talking about people who’ve only known the U.S. as their home—adults with jobs, businesses, and families. Losing them would have a big impact economically and socially.”
DACA recipients are required to follow strict rules to remain in the program. Salem noted, “They go through background checks every time they renew their status. They cannot commit more than two misdemeanors or one felony, or they lose DACA. These recipients are doing things the right way.”
Hope and Uncertainty
As the legal battles over DACA continue, both Eliana and Salem urge recipients to stay informed and prepared. Salem advises recipients to explore alternative legal pathways, like family petitions or employer sponsorships.
“Don’t wait for the courts to decide. Have a plan B,” she said.
For Eliana, faith remains a guiding force.
“I just want people to know we’re not bad people. We pay taxes and contribute to this country. We’re here to do the right thing,” she said. “I hope the government sees our value and gives us a chance to keep building our lives here.”
With the future of DACA in limbo, the stories of recipients like Eliana shed light on the stakes involved—not just for individuals, but for the communities they contribute to every day.
