Which Way, L.A.?
The DREAM Act and Southern California
California is one of four states that would be most affected if the DREAM Act becomes law. That's the path to citizenship for children brought to this country as minors by illegal parents, who were raised here but who can't work here legally after they come of age. Also, D.J. Waldie retires from the City of Lakewood. On our rebroadcast of To the Point, America's highest poverty rate since 1994.
By Warren Olney • • 1h 0m ListenCalifornia is one of four states that would be most affected if the DREAM Act becomes law. That's the path to citizenship for children brought to this country as minors by illegal parents--who were raised here--but who can't work here legally after they come of age. Is it both humane and good for the local economy—or a grant of "amnesty" for teenagers who knew what they were doing and ought to be sent home? Also, D.J. Waldie retires from the City of Lakewood. On our rebroadcast of today's To the Point, poverty in America increased last year to 44 million people. One longtime advocate calls it a “national emergency.” Will Washington treat it that way? How many poor people vote?
Banner image: Carlos A. Quiroz.
In this episode
3 storiesCensus Bureau Says One in Seven Americans Lives in Poverty
The National Bureau of Economic Research said today the Great Recession that started in December 2007 officially ended in June of last year. But don't tell that to the 43.6 million people who are trying to live below the poverty line.
Read the story17 minThe Bard of Lakewood Announces His Retirement
D.J. Waldie is an award-winning writer whose essays, articles and books have helped many readers better understand Southern California. Some essays are collected in Where We Are Now : Notes from Los Angeles. His most recent book is California Romantica . He co-wrote Real City : Downtown Los Angeles Inside/Out with photographer Marissa Roth.
Read the story9 minMayor, Community Leaders Push for Passage of DREAM Act
The Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors Act would provide a path to citizenship for children who were brought to this country illegally before they were 16 and then lived here continuously for five years. Even then, citizenship would be only temporary.
Read the story27 min
