Living Undocumented During a Pandemic: A Mixed Method Study of DACA Eligible Students at a California State University

Nicole Dubus, San Jose State University

Abstract

DACA is an immigration policy that provides a reprieve from deportation for a select group brought to the U.S. as children. Nearly half of the 1.2 million DACA-eligible immigrants are essential workers. During the Covid-19 pandemic, essential workers were on the frontlines of exposure. This study examines the emotional toll on DACA recipients during the Covid-19 pandemic. This study involved 60 anonymous surveys of DACA recipients. Of the survey participants, 12 were also interviewed. Content analysis captured DACA recipients’ experiences. Findings revealed a layered experience of uncertain citizen status during Covid-19 pandemic.