Representative Roger Freeman (D-Federal Way) is cosponsoring the Washington State DREAM Act, which would make higher education more affordable for Washington students seeking citizenship.
“These students grew up here, they made friends here, they went to school here, and they paid taxes here. Washington is their state – our towns are their homes. We have the opportunity now to break down educational barriers and let them take the next great step towards contributing back to their communities.”
He noted the implications for the 30th legislative district, one of the most diverse districts in the state, are particularly important.
“The story of our community is the story of America. It is the story of families from across the world coming to the United States, willing and ready to work hard for a middle class life,” said Freeman. “Opportunity is what made our nation great, and we need to give the kids who grew up in our communities the opportunity to carry on that tradition of greatness.”
Increasing higher education accessibility for individuals who came to the United States as children is supported by a number of local elected officials. The Federal Way School Board unanimously passed a resolution supporting the DREAM Act earlier this year.
“We’re not doing these students a favor; they are doing us a favor by striving to be the best that they can,” said Tony Moore, President of the Federal Way School Board. “I’m a Republican who believes that every child deserves the opportunity for greatness. It doesn’t matter where you’re from; if you’re here, we need you to be your very best. The DREAM Act accomplishes that.”
Children of undocumented immigrants are currently eligible for in-state tuition, but not for financial aid programs like the State Need Grant and State Work Study. The DREAM Act would ensure they qualify for these programs as well.
“Access to a quality education is the social justice issue of our generation. With the dramatic tuition increases we have seen in recent years, access to financial aid is the only way many students can attend college,” said Freeman.