PeaceHealth statement on DACA

As the renewal deadline passes this week for current participants in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, it’s unclear what will happen to the more than 800,000 “Dreamers” participating in the program. PeaceHealth reiterates its support of the program’s continuation with the following joint statement from Liz Dunne, president and chief executive officer, and Sr. Andrea Nenzel, chair of the PeaceHealth Board of Directors:

“As a Catholic healthcare ministry, PeaceHealth, along with the Catholic Healthcare Association and the American Hospital Association, urges Congress to take action to preserve the DACA program. Inclusion is at the heart of our 126-year heritage, and we continue to answer the call for social justice — embracing and celebrating the diversity of our caregivers, and caring for those who are most vulnerable.

“PeaceHealth is committed to supporting DACA Dreamers, some of whom make up our 16,000-strong team of dedicated caregivers. As dedicated healthcare professionals, Dreamers benefit the people and communities we are privileged to serve, as well as play a vital role in our Mission to provide compassionate, high quality care every, single day. For the health and well-being of patients and families across the nation, we urge lawmakers to work together toward a lasting solution that protects the life and dignity of all individuals.”