DACA supporters, local 'Dreamers' gather in defense of program

"We are your students. We're your teachers. We are your nurses. We are everywhere. If DACA and TPS are taken away, you're taking away members that have contributed to this community so much more than what they professionally do," said Bruno Hinojosa Ruiz of Compañeros Inmigrantes de las Montañas en Acción, or CIMA.

"DACA" stands for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. President Donald Trump is expected to end the Obama-era program Tuesday, though not immediately.

Ruiz gathered with a number of others on Biltmore Avenue, waving signs and chanting about their future. The group does not want DACA to end, but says there should be even more protections for undocumented immigrants.

Monse Ramirez, 21, became part of the DACA program when she was five, and brought to the US from Mexico.

"I'm here to say I'm undocumented and unafraid," said Ramirez. "I'm ready to fight regardless of his decision tomorrow."

While Ramirez says she's unafraid, others are fearful over what would happen if the program is discontinued.

"What's going to happen with me? What's going to happen to my family? What's going to happen with my baby if they decide to cancel this?" said Maria Elena.

South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham (R) released the following statement:

If President Trump chooses to cancel the DACA program and give Congress six months to find a legislative solution, I will be supportive of such a position.

I have always believed DACA was a presidential overreach.

However, I equally understand the plight of the Dream Act kids who -- for all practical purposes -- know no country other than America.

If President Trump makes this decision we will work to find a legislative solution to their dilemma.

I have introduced legislation to solve this problem along with Senator Durbin. I look forward to working with President Trump and my colleagues in Congress to find a fair solution to this difficult problem.