On Friday, January 15, the National Council of La Raza (NCLR) released a statement commending President Obama’s administration for granting Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to undocumented Haitians in response to the earthquake that has devastated that country. TPS is granted to selected immigrants in the U.S. who cannot return safely to their countries of origin because of natural disasters, armed conflict, or other emergencies.
In a statement released by the Department of Homeland Security, Secretary Janet Napolitano said, “This is a disaster of historic proportions and this designation will allow eligible Haitian nationals in the United States to continue living and working in our country for the next 18 months. Providing a temporary refuge for Haitian nationals who are currently in the United States and whose personal safety would be endangered by returning to Haiti is part of this Administration’s continuing efforts to support Haiti’s recovery.”
The administration’s decision was preceded by intense appeals from several organizations including the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators and the NCLR, which sent a letter to President Obama asking him to extend TPS to Haitian immigrants as soon as possible.
“We commend the administration for taking this step and in so doing strengthening America’s image as a beacon of hope,” said NCLR President and CEO Janet Murguía. “Extending TPS to our Haitian brothers and sisters in need is in line with our country’s proud humanitarian tradition and a fitting response as part of our efforts to help our neighbor during this catastrophe.”
Good Move by Obama