Today, U.S. Congressman Scott Peters (CA-52) announced that San Diegan Karen Bahena will be his guest at the State of the Union. Karen lived in Cuernavaca Morelos, Mexico for eight years until 2001 when her family migrated to San Diego. Thanks to DACA, Karen has been able to graduate college with a degree in Public Health and Nutrition at San Diego State University, find work as a research coordinator at the University of California, San Diego, and pursue her dreams in the field of medicine. She hopes to one day help underprivileged communities with health care needs.

“Karen is a remarkable San Diegan who embodies the American mentality that if you work hard and play by the rules, then you will have an opportunity to prosper in this country,” said Rep. Peters. “There is no reason that this American Dream should not be extended to her. Karen is a smart, dedicated college graduate who aspires to be a nurse and eventually pursue medical school.

“Outstanding contributors to society like Karen should not be forced out of our country, instead, they should be embraced and celebrated for making the United States a better place. A clear path forward for Dreamers must be Congress’ top priority before it is too late. I am honored to have Karen join me at the State of the Union as my guest.”

Karen Bahena has 247 days left before her work permit expires. Karen continues to spread her story and advocate for the 800,000 other DACA recipients that live in a state of uncertainty for what the future holds.