![\"TSTC](\"http:\/\/news.tstc.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/TSTCEmpowermentConferenceSP18.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n\u201cThis issue is one that has had a huge impact in our area and our state,\u201d said Student Support Services Coordinator Patty Flores. \u201cThere are so many students who are uncertain about their future in the United States and are lost and confused with how to handle the situation.\u201d<\/p>\n
Flores said the goal of the event is to provide the resources DACA recipients, their families, friends and advocates need to make informed and educated decisions about their next steps.<\/p>\n
The half-day event will include three speakers: Abraham Diaz, La Union del Pueblo Entero (LUPE) education specialist, Gabriel Sanchez, Texas Rural Aid and Ana Villegas, Villegas Law Office immigration attorney.<\/p>\n
Presentations on \u201cDACA and Know Your Rights,\u201d Texas Rural Legal Aid Services and \u201cBe Prepared,\u201d will be presented by the speakers, respectively.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur goal is to educate and empower with information,\u201d said Flores. \u201cThis isn\u2019t an issue that only affects those who are undocumented. It\u2019s affecting their children and families as well.\u201d<\/p>\n
To close this year\u2019s event, the Harlingen High School Drama Department will perform their play, \u201cTracks: Inspired by Real Events.\u201d<\/p>\n
The play is dedicated to those who have suffered on the journey and lost their lives while immigrating to the United States seeking a better life and the American Dream.<\/p>\n
The conference, which has touched on other issues such as human trafficking, drugs and cultural awareness, is open and free to the public.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe encourage everyone from TSTC students, staff and faculty to the community to attend,\u201d said Flores. \u201cThis is an issue that hits close to home for many.\u201d<\/p>\n