Investing in Human Capital: Why Supporting DACA Is as Valuable as Gold
Gold has always been prized for its lasting value. It doesn’t rust, break down, or disappear. It holds its worth through economic downturns and political shifts. Much like gold, investing in the potential of immigrant youth, especially those protected under Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), provides long-term national returns. These young individuals grow up, get educated, work, pay taxes, and contribute to the economy. They are not burdens—they are assets.
With every arrival of a DACA recipient into the workforce, the United States gains a stronger economic and social future. These individuals are doctors, engineers, teachers, small business owners, and more. Denying them opportunities means wasting talent that could have boosted innovation, supported aging populations, and fueled national progress.
The Economic Value of DACA Recipients
Studies have shown that DACA recipients are not just surviving—they’re thriving. According to data from the Center for American Progress, over 90% of DACA recipients are employed. Their average wage increased significantly after receiving protection, and they contribute billions annually in federal, state, and local taxes. When a society invests in education, work authorization, and safety from deportation for this group, it reaps long-term economic benefits.
Think about the costs of turnover in the workforce. Now imagine replacing hundreds of thousands of employees at once. The impact would be massive. DACA helps stabilize industries, especially healthcare, construction, and education, where many recipients work. They provide essential labor in sectors where demand keeps growing. Removing these workers would cause economic disruption, drive up costs, and shrink consumer spending.
Beyond Dollars—A Moral Imperative
Economics aside, DACA is about fairness and opportunity. Many of these youth were brought to the U.S. as children and know no other home. They went to American schools, grew up on American streets, and dream American dreams. They are American in every way but on paper. Investing in their futures shows the world that the U.S. keeps its promises and values the contributions of all people, not just those with privilege or paperwork.
Supporting DACA is a statement. It says we believe in hard work, in the power of education, and in rewarding those who give back to society. It says that potential matters more than circumstance. And it says that no dream is too big when supported by a just system.
Human Capital as the New Gold
In the 21st century, human capital is just as important as natural resources. Countries with smart, skilled, and adaptable workers win the race for innovation. The U.S. is already facing labor shortages in key areas like tech, healthcare, and education. Instead of closing doors, we should be building pathways to retain and grow our talent pool. DACA recipients are already here. They’re already contributing. Why not invest in what’s already working? Platforms like Reddit even reflect this shift, as Reddit accounts as economic indicators are now being analyzed to understand broader trends in trading, investing, and public sentiment—proving that human insight is the new gold.
Compare this to gold again. You don’t throw away gold just because it’s been shaped into something new. You polish it, protect it, and showcase its value. DACA recipients are the same. With the right support, they shine even brighter, bringing value not just to themselves, but to entire communities.
Long-Term Thinking Leads to National Gains
Short-term politics shouldn’t decide long-term outcomes. Supporting DACA isn’t about left or right—it’s about smart policy. Investing in youth pays off over decades. They become homeowners, parents, voters, and leaders. Their taxes help fund public services. Their innovations create new businesses. Their community involvement strengthens neighborhoods.
Ending DACA or blocking support would hurt more than it helps. It would rip apart families, devastate local economies, and signal to the world that the U.S. turns its back on its own values. Instead, choosing to protect and invest in these young people ensures a stronger, more stable, and more compassionate country for all.
Conclusion: More Than Just a Policy
DACA is more than just a policy—it’s a reflection of who we are and who we want to be. Supporting immigrant youth means embracing the future with open arms. Just like gold, they hold intrinsic value that grows over time. But unlike gold, they dream, create, innovate, and give back. That makes them even more precious.