In 2004, the OCDT was primarily established in hopes of passing the DREAM Act and other legislations that would benefit undocumented students. Since then, we continue with our efforts to make them a reality!

The DREAM Act

The Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act, also known as the DREAM ACT, is a federal bill that would provide undocumented students with a path to legalization and the opportunity to put into practice their college and university degrees.

Ten states across the country, including California, have established laws that allow those without a legal status to pay in-state tuition for their education in institutions of higher learning. However, it is still very difficult for students to complete their post-secondary studies without any financial aid. The few that do beat the odds and manage to earn a Bachelor's or Master's, are currently stuck without a work permit or an avenue that would adjust their immigration status and allow them to practice their degrees as teachers, doctors, lawyers, or social workers.

Since first introduced in 2001, The DREAM Act has widened its support in the Senate and House of Representatives and currently waits to be re-introduced in both houses.

Related Links:

DREAM Act: Basic Information

Bill Status

DREAM ACT Co-Sponsors:

The Dream Act was introduced by Assistant Senate Majority Leader Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Senator Richard Lugar (R-IN). Its current co-sponsors are:

Sen Bingaman, Jeff [NM] 
Sen Boxer, Barbara [CA] 
Sen Dodd, Christopher J. [CT] 
Sen Feingold, Russell D. [WI] 
Sen Feinstein, Dianne [CA] 
Sen Gillibrand, Kirsten E. [NY] 
Sen Harkin, Tom [IA] 
Sen Kennedy, Edward M. [MA] 
Sen Kerry, John F. [MA] 
Sen Leahy, Patrick J. [VT] 
Sen Lieberman, Joseph I. [CT] 
Sen Lugar, Richard G. [IN] 
Sen Martinez, Mel [FL] 
Sen Menendez, Robert [NJ] 
Sen Murray, Patty [WA] 
Sen Nelson, Bill [FL]  
Sen Reid, Harry [NV] 
Sen Schumer, Charles E. [NY] 
Sen Whitehouse, Sheldon [RI]