What do you consider a Dreamer?

Given the recent discussion on this thread about what constitutes a Dreamer and what doesn't, about how some people deserve that label more than others, and about how only those deemed worthy should be eligible for any future legislation directed specifically at us, I'm curious to hear from the rest of the community how you define the term Dreamer.

Does it take something special to be considered a Dreamer, besides having been brought to the US as a child by your parents? Do you see it as absolutely necessary that, in order to be Dreamer, you need success and perseverance in your life, such as finishing college, having a career, and/or having a well-paying job (i.e. you could have a career and a well-paying job without college)?

Should those brought here as kids that now as adults are just scraping by, working dead-end minimum wage jobs – or not working at all – with no ambition of advancement be excluded from a potential future Dreamer legalization?

Anyone who would benefit from the DREAM Act

People who you describe will ultimately be disqualified once they fail to meet the provisions of the DREAM Act. Dreamers originally meant the people who would have qualified for the 2001 Dream Act.

I believe that the definition of dreamers changed as a result of DACA which required only a high school education (or G.E.D, or currently in school). These people qualify for DACA. If a "Dreamer" didn't qualify for DACA based on the education requirement (Not age, because some Dreamers are age 35 and above that would have qualified for 2001 DREAM act) then they're not a Dreamer.


However, if RACA/Bridge Act or some other form of relief comes that allows Adjustment of status then "Dreamers" who qualified for DACA will have to show that they can meet the different requirements. Hence, the definition of Dreamer would change again

To me, all of these have to be true to be a Dreamer:
1. You were brought here as a child without a say in the matter. We can argue about the cutoff age, but I would say under 16. Over 16...you're almost a grown-ass man then.

2. You are fully invested in the US and for all practical purposes, this is your home. Visiting here for the summer with your parents and then overstaying your visa doesn't count because your home country is still right there waiting for you and you are not fully committed. For that, I think you should be here at least for 5 years, enrolled in school.

3. You should not be a fuck-up. No criminal record. You should at a minimum finish High School and either in college, or on your way to a career via an apprenticeship in the trades (HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing, Welding, whatever). In other words, a model immigrant so you won't ruin it for other people in your shoes.