Simon Jun, an undocumented student and DREAM rider, speaks publicly for the first time about his situation. He says that Congress needs to pass immigration reform for the families living in the shadows. (Rob Denton/SHFWire)

DREAMers go on summer road trip for immigration reform

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WASHINGTON – Steps away from the Capitol, DREAM rider Simon Jun spoke publically for the first time Wednesday about being an undocumented student in the U.S.

“Growing up, I understood what it meant to be undocumented,” he said. “Don’t break any laws, no matter how trivial they may seem. Never tell or hint to another individual that you are undocumented.”

Standing next to fellow DREAM riders, Asian-American advocacy groups and members of Congress, Jun called on lawmakers to pass comprehensive immigration reform. He said he is thankful to have received approval to stay in the U.S. under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, which grants temporary residency to young adults brought to the country as children. But he said the larger issue needs a permanent fix.

July 4 week events start with a water gun protest march

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WASHINGTON – The downpour of rain didn’t bother protesters preparing to march on Washington – they planned to get soaked anyway. As they filled their water guns from an 800-pound water tank in the back of an SUV, the rain ceded and the U.S. and “Don’t tread on me” flags were taken out. On Wednesday morning, 14 protesters walked from Arlington National Cemetery to the Washington Monument in support of the Second Amendment and Toys for Tots. They raised more than $1,200 for the charity and donated several toys. “We’re out here exercising our First Amendment rights in support of the Second Amendment,” march organizer Austin Peterson, 32, a video and photo production company owner from  Alexandria, Va., said.