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Supporters Rally Outside State Capitol In Favor Of DACA

More than 200 people rallied outside the state capitol building in Springfield over the weekend to show support for immigrants.

Standing in the shadow of the statehouse dome - right near a Lincoln statue - residents shared stories and support for people who have been living in the U.S. under the "Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals" program, commonly referred to as DACA. The Trump administration has begun to phase it out.

Lisset, who doesn't want her last name used, told rally-goers about her experience coming to the U.S. as a toddler. Her father works at a hog confinement hall in Beardstown and the 19-year-old is attending college in Jacksonville. She said she's scared about her future and doesn't want to leave her life in Illinois.

"DACA has given me a sense of identity. I mean, I was able to finally get a state ID, even that means so much," she said.

Speakers urged individuals to call their Congressional representatives and ask them to support the federally proposed DREAM Act. It would assist undocumented immigrants who attend college or join the military.

The White House is no longer accepting new work permit applications through the DACA program. 

Rachel's reports currently focus on education and equity. She's also reported extensively on arts, community & diverse culture.