Obama immigration policy takes effect

PHOENIX — A new policy takes effect Wednesday that gives young undocumented immigrants an opportunity to apply for deferred deportation and work permits.

“This to me is a test to prove that we truly deserve a pathway to citizenship,” said Jose Patino, a 23-year-old Arizona State University graduate with a degree in mechanical engineering. He plans on applying for the permit along with several of his siblings.

Patino said all he wants is an opportunity at a better life and that the Latino community has a lot to prove, since the misconceptions about undocumented immigrants exist because of fear.

“We are different color, we speak English, not as they do, we have different customs,” he said.

Latinos like Patino said the new program is a step in the right direction, but there’s a lot of work to be done. They continue the fight for comprehensive immigration reform.

Tens of thousands of undocumented immigrants are expected to apply for the permits.