Letter to the Editor: Support the DREAM Act

As a college student and a first generation American, I cannot even fathom how difficult it might be for someone my age to grow up here in New Jersey and then realize that they are not legal citizens. With the pitfalls of our current system, all of the hopes and dreams of going to college, graduating and getting a good job are instantly dashed. Unfortunately, this has become a reality for far too many young adults right here in the Garden State.

Thankfully, under the leadership of Senate President Steve Sweeny and Senators Teresa Ruiz, Nellie Pou and Sandra Cunningham, hope may be restored for many New Jersey kids.

Just as I didn’t chose for my parents to immigrate to New Jersey from Egypt, these young men and women didn’t choose for their parents to bring them without documentation from their country of origin. Many of these young adults have no memories of their “home countries” and are as American as you and I.

With legislation pending in the State legislature, DREAMers – as they are called – who have attended New Jersey high schools would be able to continue on to a New Jersey state college or university at an in-state cost and would be eligible, similarly to their peers, for financial aid – not a free ride mind you, but assistance in paying for school. 

Restoring hope to these young men and women is truly the compassionate and right thing to do. I applaud our Legislative leaders who are standing up for all the people of New Jersey.

-Marie-Christine Aziz

Edison, NJ