For Question 4
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( November 5, 2012 ) The Maryland Dream Act is not only good for those relatively few who will benefit directly from it (perhaps fewer than 300 college students in any given year) but for everyone who lives in the state. That's because making tuition more affordable for illegal immigrants is a kind of economic stimulus -- reducing social service costs and raising tax revenue. A dozen states have passed similar measures to provide in-state college tuition rates for illegal immigrants, and Maryland's version may be the strictest in the nation. It requires parents to be taxpayers and students to first attend community college. Yet the payoff is still substantial, as those better-educated young adults take on higher-paying jobs in the workforce. The Dream Act doesn't set immigration policy. That's the job of Congress and the White House. But whether comprehensive immigration reform happens or not, the Dream Act gives the state the tools to better deal with the reality of today. |
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Vote for a brighter tomorrow
Kevin is an 8 year-old with severe autism who was born in the U.S. and enjoys all the privileges of American citizenship, including a specialized education and support for his illness. His brother, Brandon, was born in Mexico and came to Baltimore with his mother, who immigrated in search of work and a more promising future for her family. His mother tells us that Brandon has impressive grades despite spending much of his time caring for Kevin. However, her proud stories have been recently tinged with anxiety regarding his future. Having successfully completed high school last June, he is now in limbo. Although his grades are excellent, he cannot afford even community college without the benefit of in-state tuition rates. He works odd jobs and has assumed additional responsibility in caring for Kevin.
On Brandon’s behalf, we ask you to vote in favor of the Dream Act (Question 4). Brandon has no plans to leave the United States- he grew up in Baltimore and calls it home. No one is waiting for him in Mexico. His future lies here. The best way for Brandon to have a meaningful life and contribute to his family and community is with a college education.
Please vote for the Dream Act to brighten the future of young people like Brandon.
Sarah Polk MD, ScM
Kathleen Page MD
Johns Hopkins Center of Excellence in Latino and Immigrant Health at Bayview