“One year ago today, President Obama presented a series of Executive Actions on Deferred Action of Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and Deferred Action for Parental Accountability (DAPA) marking a historic turning point for millions of undocumented immigrants in the United States. The plan raised people out of the shadows and brought a sense of relief to millions of immigrants who live, work and have contributed to this country and the strengthening our economy. The President’s administrative relief plan is firmly in line with similar actions taken by previous administrations and is lawful.

“Unfortunately, the plan has been bogged down by a series of lawsuits from Republicans which has delayed its implementation. In addition, the Republican Congress has shown that it either can’t or won’t take up comprehensive immigration reform. This is compounded by a Presidential campaign where the Republican front runner has proposed mass deportations which would rip the fabric of this country apart. The result is millions of parents and children continue to be left in an unconscionable limbo. We are confident that once the Supreme Court takes up the case the President’s plan will be implemented.

“In the meantime, while Washington continues to fail on comprehensive immigration reform, New York City will lead by being a welcoming city for its immigrants and continuing to expand programs and policies that recognize the contributions of our immigrants and treat them with the dignity and respect they deserve. If others do not act, New York City will.”