September 2017

As an association dedicated to helping children and families around the globe, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) is extremely disappointed in the Trump Administration's recent decision to rescind the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

The DACA program enabled children, brought into the United States by their parents, to apply and receive renewable two-year periods of deferred action from deportation and provided them with eligibility for work permits.

Under DACA, children could receive an education without the fear of deportation. By having the ability to learn and work, DACA afforded this community of dreamers the ability to contribute to the country we, as Americans, all cherish. The DACA program not only strengthened our economy, it enhanced communities by adding to the richness and diversity of our nation.

By ending the DACA program, the Trump Administration puts the legal status of countless children and young adults in limbo, causing tremendous worry and anxiety about separation from their families, loved ones, and livelihoods. This unnecessary action only adds to the tremendous mental anguish experienced by so many immigrant children and families across our nation.

AACAP asks President Trump to reconsider this decision and calls on Congress to take immediate action to clarify the rights of these individuals who were brought to the United States as children. Thoughtful bipartisan bills have already been introduced in the Senate and House of Representatives to address the situation children and young adults with DACA status are currently facing. AACAP urges Congress to consider and quickly pass a compassionate legislative response.

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Representing 9,200+ child and adolescent psychiatrists nationwide, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) is the leading authority on children's mental health.

AACAP Members actively research, diagnose and treat psychiatric disorders affecting children, adolescents and their families. For more information please visit www.aacap.org.