With legislation failing in the State Senate last night 30-29 that would have enabled college opportunities for children of parents who are undocumented, a number of Bronx elected officials have expressed their outrage.
Gustavo Rivera (r.) said, “Terribly disappointed in the sad reality that under a Republican led coalition in the Senate, progressive ideas fail over and over again…the DREAM Act was defeated on the floor of the Senate today.” (via Facebook) He also referred to Sen. David Valesky of the Independence Democratic Conference, who he blamed for their failed coalition building as a means to push progressive legislation.
Senator Jose M Serrano (l.) had this to say:
“I am deeply disappointed that[yesterday]’s DREAM Act legislation brought before the Senate failed to achieve enough votes for passage.
“As the representative for communities in East Harlem and the South Bronx, I have long been a vocal advocate for the DREAM Act because it would provide higher educational opportunities for immigrants in New York City and throughout our state. Our nation was built by generations of hardworking immigrants who came to America seeking new opportunities.
“The DREAM Act would honor this legacy by giving immigrant students the chance to gain a higher education, and by doing so giving them a chance at achieving the American Dream. Make no mistake, the DREAM Act isn’t a handout, but rather an opportunity for people to work hard, to prove themselves, and to shine.
“I’d like to thank all my colleagues who supported this legislation, as well as members of the State Assembly who have worked so hard fighting for this bill. My hope and expectation is that the DREAM Act will become a reality for young immigrants across our state in the very near future.”
Photos c/o nysenate.gov
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