"I am very pleased by the statement of Archbishop Jose Gomez, chair of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Committee on Migration, welcoming the actions of President Obama last Friday providing for legal protection and work authorization to thousands of undocumented youth. This action by the President makes it possible for these young men and women, who have spent most of their lives in this country, to pursue education and employment opportunities and to make a contribution to American society. The United States has historically welcomed immigrants from throughout the world, to improve their own lives and to contribute to the common good of our nation. As Archbishop Gomez said, this executive action by the President is not a substitute for passage of the DREAM Act. It is my hope that the U.S. Congress will see the wisdom of providing the full range of rights and protections which this Act contains."