SILVER SPRING, Maryland — On Tuesday, SILVER SPRING, Maryland — On Tuesday, June 18, the Biden administration announced new policies, including measures that will offer protection from deportation and pathways to legal status for spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens and enhanced opportunities for recipients of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).

"These policies are a breath of fresh air and a dose of hope for many of our immigrant brothers and sisters," said Anna Gallagher, CLINIC executive director. "We welcome these measures, knowing the enormous impacts they will have for our network's clients. Catholic social teaching supports policies that promote family unity, recognizing family as society's primary building block. The Church has consistently advocated for DACA recipients, who are vital to our communities. These actions align with the values of our faith and will provide welcome relief to immigrant families."

The new polices are estimated to impact around 500,000 eligible people who are undocumented and married to U.S. citizens. Their announcement coincides with the 12th anniversary of the DACA program.

"While we celebrate these wins for immigrant families, we remain mindful of recent executive orders restricting asylum access," Gallagher continued. "We advocate and pray for measures that recognize the dignity of all people, regardless of status. Robust asylum protections are essential for safeguarding human dignity and promoting family unity. We urge the administration to boldly champion the rights of all immigrants."