"President Obama is showing great courage in taking this action, and it presents a stark contrast with the GOP’s presumptive presidential nominee who has vowed to stop the DREAM Act if elected. In Congress, polarizing partisan politics kept the DREAM Act from becoming law in 2010.

"Through President Obama’s courageous leadership, DREAM eligible students can get relief from the immediate threat of deportation. The president has now done all he can do, but the kind of relief he is able to grant is temporary. It is now up to Congress to pass the DREAM Act and comprehensive immigration reform, which is the only way that the dreams of these productive Americans can be realized."

The President’s actions bring much-needed security and encouragement to our nation's youth who can finally live without fear of separation from their families and deportation to a country they barely remember. [...] The AFL-CIO commends the Administration for its courage and leadership in taking an important step towards a more just America.

President Obama’s announcement is a critical step that begins to address our nation’s dire need for comprehensive immigration reform. We call on both parties to work with the President towards a legislative solution that will address the parents and families of these immigrant youth, and the millions of undocumented workers who are now living in the shadows.

We will continue to work for the dreams and aspirations of all working Americans. Regardless of our birth place, we share common goals. We applaud President Obama and his team for this huge step forward. It makes us more determined to keep pushing forward and to never give up.