Endorsements

“Music and the arts have always been at the heart of our nation and our identity.  The history of music in America is inseparable from the story of immigrants in America.  Our brave young Dreamers embody this proud legacy, adding their vision and patriotism to make America more American.  The remarkable talents and touching stories of all the Dreamers showcased in this exceptional album are a reminder of the universal power of music to transcend differences and illuminate our shared humanity.  May the soaring melodies and harmonies of these courageous Dreamers remind everyone who hears them of the beauty and resiliency of the human spirit and of our responsibility to honor our heritage as a nation of immigrants.”
--U.S. House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi

"Dream Act children have known no country other than America. American Dreamers features a heartfelt expression of patriotism by talented Dreamers performing the songs of our country."
--U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham

“Music has always been tied to the fight for justice. During the Civil Rights Movement, Nina Simone and John Coltrane performed what became anthems for freedom. American Dreamers continues this tradition of using music to send an important message: Dreamers are Americans. You will hear these young Americans performing jazz at the highest level, speaking about their hopes, and affirming their love of the country they call home.”
--U.S. Senator Kamala D. Harris

“The American civil rights movement, in all its glorious diversity, is built on music. American Dreamers builds on, and advances, that legacy. It is a glorious compilation of musical talent, artistic vision and patriotic passion.”
--Ali Noorani, Executive Director, National Immigration Forum

“Jazz reminds us of the power of music and culture to create change. Born out of the experiences and creativity of black people in the South, Jazz is an expression of injustice, resistance and resilience. American Dreamers inspires us by masterfully showing how immigrant youth join in the rich tradition of playing and using jazz as a form of resistance and an expression of freedom.”
--Cristina Jiménez, Executive Director and Co-Founder of United We Dream, 2017 John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Fellow

“Dreamers have overcome extraordinary odds to enrich the cultural fabric of the United States through their incredible musical talents. American Dreamers illustrates their creative contributions as singers, producers and instrumentalists, and reaffirms that these young people are deserving of every opportunity to pursue their aspirations in the only country they know as home.”
--Todd Schulte, President, FWD.us

"Dreamers and jazz is an inspired and quintessentially American pairing. The music brims with creativity, bursts with optimism, and bounces with joy. It’s a remarkable salute to all that’s best about the country we all call home."
--Marshall Fitz, Managing Director for Immigration, Emerson Collective

“Throughout history, music and culture have shaped movements and armed freedom fighters with hope and resistance in their fight for justice. American Dreamers brings to light the creativity and talent of immigrant youth and how they are shaping our fight for freedom today.”
--Lorella Praeli, ACLU Director of Immigration Policy and Campaigns

“American Dreamers are the future of this nation; and I am so honored to have been a part of this impactful project by witnessing the recording sessions. The University of Miami is an institution that embraces students from innumerable racial, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. Our “U Dreamers” admissions initiative is designed specifically for Dreamers to apply to our university and thrive while they’re here. It is truly fitting that American Dreamers was recorded at the Frost School of Music located in our scenic Coral Gables Campus. Music is a form of artistic expression that allows groups to unite and share their stories with larger populations. I was completely inspired by the Dreamermusicians’ passion, talent, and tenacity.  Our American Dreamers have the artistic talents to tackle our nation’s injustices through the gift and beauty that is music.”
--Michelle Aguilar, Assistant Director of Admission, University of Miami