Statement from Monsignor Kevin Sullivan, Executive Director Catholic Charities of New York

“Today’s Supreme Court decision upholds the commitment made eight years ago to young immigrants brought to the United States as children by their parents. The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (“DACA”) decision is a welcome step  in the right direction for our country.

Catholic Charities knows firsthand that these young people have become valuable members of our communities. Many have obtained college degrees, become business owners or entered professional fields. While this decision is positive, it is also temporary and partial. It is not a substitute for comprehensive and meaningful immigration that, among other items, secures our borders, protects family unity, and provides a way to earn legal status.  

Monsignor Sullivan also noted that Catholic Charities was among the 127 religious organizations that filed friends of court briefs in support of DACA.The Brief filed with the Supreme Court quoted Catholic Charities, noting, “DACA is an important step to acknowledging and growing the human and social contributions and needs of young immigrants and of our own communities.”

Monsignor Sullivan concluded, “These young men and women have roots in our country. We are stronger as a country with them and their contributions.”