Statement from Burris:

Thank you for contacting me with your thoughts on the DREAM Act and the right of Illegal aliens to attain higher education. I appreciate hearing from you on this important issue.

Today thousands of minors live in the United States despite being illegal aliens. Oftentimes, they are brought into the country by parents and relatives looking for work and better lives for their families. Once here, these youth attend American schools and live traditional American lives, contributing their talents and energy to our great nation. Under current law, though, these students are ineligible for many higher education benefits, greatly hindering their ability to compete in a 21st Century economy where education is crucial.

I believe that we must make higher education accessible to all Americans. If we are to continue to lead the world in innovation and prosperity, we must help every American student reach his or her fullest potential. The DREAM Act is being sponsored in the Senate by Senator Durbin and will amend the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 to make students who are illegal aliens eligible for higher education benefits. Currently, the bill has been introduced in the Senate and referred to the Judiciary Committee.

It is imperative that our government take action to prevent the disenfranchisement of large groups of people living within our borders. We are a better nation when everyone here has an opportunity to succeed, and I think that the DREAM Act will help us realize that goal. Rest assured that I will keep your thoughts in mind when this issue comes before the full Senate.

Once again, thank you for taking the time to contact me. Please feel free to do so again about any issue of importance to you.

Sincerely,

Roland W. Burris
United States Senator

Just to confirm his position.