Local lawmakers and student advocates [led by members of Make the Road NY] gathered at City Hall on Tuesday in Manhattan to urge the State Senate and Assembly to pass the State DREAM Act and DREAM Fund.

The bills would make financial aid available to undocumented immigrants looking to go to college.

Supporters are urging Governor Cuomo to push state lawmakers into getting the legislation passed.

They say it is about helping immigrants help themselves.

“I’m an undocumented student, but eager to succeed, and I know that a lot of my friends are also dreamers and I know they are excellent students and I know that they can bring so much to this country they can contribute a lot, if the government gives us the opportunity,” said one rally participant.

“This is critically important and it’s long overdue, this opportunity about giving kids access to equal education,” said Jose Calderon of the Hispanic Federation.

To be eligible, applicants must have entered the country before the age of 18.

Similar federal legislation is stalled in Congress.

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