One Day Closer, One More Update on DREAM

This morning, Under Secretary of Defense Dr. Clifford Stanley held a press conference call to highlight how the DREAM Act is important to our military’s recruitment efforts and readiness. The DREAM Act is a part of the Department of Defense's 2010-2012 Strategic Plan to assist the military in its recruiting efforts.  

Under Secretary Stanley described the DREAM Act as “the sweet spot,” pointing out it is “common sense,” and that given that recruitment rates go through cycles in the military, the DREAM Act is important to expand the pool of recruits.
 
In addition, Secretaries Duncan and Napolitano sent letters to the Hill today expressing their support for the DREAM Act and urging Congress to pass it (view Secretary Duncan's letters here and Secretary Napolitano letters here).

And Dr. Jill Biden, Second Lady of the United States, penned an op-ed that ran in today’s Fort Wayne Journal Gazette  and Miami Herald, providing her perspective as an educator, and as someone who has had the privilege to work with military families. As she wrote, “The power of the talent of these young future-Americans is immense. Whether they want to serve our military or further their education, it's in our nation's best interest to make that possible. Let's put their talent to good use.”

And other op-eds and editorials continue to run in support of the DREAM Act, including one in the Washington Post written by conservative Michael Gerson titled, “How the Dream Act Transcends Politics.” Clearly, people across the political spectrum and from across a broad range of sectors -- education, military, and security communities -- see that passing the DREAM Act is good for our economy, good for our security, and good for our nation.

UPDATE:

Dr. Jill Biden’s oped ran in today’s Salt Lake City Tribune.

Secretary of Commerce, Gary Locke wrote an op-ed in the Houston Chronicle today that highlighted how passing the DREAM Act would boost the U.S. economy:

These young people, who were brought to America by their parents when they were children, can be our future scientists, doctors, military leaders and teachers. Some of them are future entrepreneurs who will build the next Google or Intel that generates hundreds or thousands of good jobs for Americans. We must give these children an opportunity to advance and succeed. Our economic future depends on it.

The President’s of Harvard and Stanford penned a joint op-ed in Politico that ran this morning:

Developing children’s full potential through education can improve career opportunities, increase personal happiness and success and prepare them to make important contributions to society. The education of every child represents a crucial investment in our collective future. These students become the talented young workers and innovators likely to drive future economic growth and innovation.

This morning the Administration issued a strong Statement of Administration Policy, sending its official recommendation of support for the DREAM Act to the Hill ahead of today’s possible votes.     

Clearly, people across the political spectrum and from across a broad range of sectors -- education, military, and security communities -- see that passing the DREAM Act is good for our economy, good for our security, and good for our nation.   It’s time to move forward on this important piece of legislation.