TOLEDO, OH (WTOL) - The lives of close to 5,060 Ohioans are at risk of changing dramatically.
That's after President Trump's administration announced the end of a program that could result in their deportation. Local activists don't want that to happen.
James Meyers comes from a family of immigr ants and has friends who are so-called dreamers. He said those around him were confused and scared after the decision from President Trump's administration, but he wasn't.
"I was not surprised," said Meyers, a local activist. "But I was still hurt because I didn't think that we would step that far back in time that this would have to happen."
The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals or DACA, is a policy created by President Obama in 2012.
It shields certain undocumented young people who came to the US as children from deportation.
"There were adult decisions made for these youths and this is the only country they've known," explained Anita Lopez, moderator for Wednesdays event and Lucas County auditor. "And that is going to be hard for them to be ripped from their families and their homes, I think that's the discussion."
Wednesday, the group "For Ohio's Future" held a forum to stand up for these immigr ants.
They're calling the community to action by phoning our legislators, rallying and speaking out. Stories of local so-called Dreamers were shared by friends during the forum.
"I've been here many years. I consider this home, but as I look around I see my dreams under attack."
Those stories inspired community members.
"I can do more," said Lisa Bowe, a local supporter of DACA. "Know that just all you have to do is your part whatever little thing that is it ripples out and it could change everything."
President Trump's decision puts pressure on Congress to act in the next four months or DACA will be eliminated.
Currently, bills are in the House and Senate offering some hope for the future for these immigr ants
