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The DHS extends TPS for Somalis
August 6th, 2021
On August 2nd, 2021, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) redesignated Somalia in the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program. Somalia has experienced an increase in armed conflict and natural disasters. This TPS extension allows Somalis who are seeking refuge in the U.S. to live and work. The DHS extended the program for 18 months beginning in September of this year.
The purpose of the TPS program is to allow immigrants to stay in the U.S. after man-made or natural disasters, regardless of how they entered the country. Somalia was granted TPS status in 1991, and not continuing the program would upturn the lives of Somalis who have sought refuge here ever since. Extending the TPS program allows Somali families to not be separated by forcing a difficult decision of either leaving behind family members or staying and living undocumented in the U.S.
Having TPS does not offer a pathway to citizenship. While extending the TPS program is a positive outcome, it is yet another reminder of the work left to be done. Immigrants' List fights for TPS holders to have a pathway to citizenship and advocates for immigrant communities as a whole. Join Immigrants' List to help further the push for immigration reform.
Categories: Immigration News