Undocumented Students: The Realities of Immigration Reform

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive summary of the current status of undocumented immigrants in the United States, with a particular focus on the DREAM Act, as a policy option to confront the realities of immigration in our nation.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review is presented providing the context to understand the livelihood of undocumented immigrants in the United States. This summary is supported by an analysis of the benefits and shortcomings of the DREAM Act.

Findings

It is clear that immigration reform has emerged as one of the most compelling issues in our country. This examination highlights that the DREAM Act cannot be enacted as a policy in a vacuum. Rather, the DREAM Act will need to operate in concert with other policies (i.e., education, economic, health care, immigration) to offer a foundation for future immigration reform policies.

Practical implications

Several states support policies that welcome undocumented immigrants seeking a college education. This paper presents valuable information highlighting the need for reform and action considering current demographic and immigration trends.

Original/value of paper

This paper serves as a resource providing a detailed summary of the current status of undocumented immigrants in the United States. In addition, it provides an analysis of the benefits and shortcomings of the DREAM Act.

Citation

Leon, R.A. (2014), "Undocumented Students: The Realities of Immigration Reform", The Obama Administration and Educational Reform (Advances in Education in Diverse Communities, Vol. 10), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 257-272. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1479-358X20130000010013