Temporary Protected Status (TPS) was created in 1990 as a humanitarian program that grants temporary relief to foreign nationals who are unable to return safely to their home countries due to ongoing armed conflict, environmental disasters, or other extraordinary and temporary conditions. Over the years, TPS has been a lifeline for hundreds of thousands of people who have fled war-torn countries or natural disasters such as hurricanes and earthquakes.
Maya Angelou once said, “We may encounter many defeats but we must not be defeated.” This sentiment rings true for the many individuals who have come to rely on TPS. For these individuals, the U.S. is not just a place where they can work and live; it’s also a place where they can find safety and security in times of crisis.
Currently, there are approximately 320,000 foreign nationals from ten different countries living in the U.S. under TPS. These individuals have made homes here and established families while contributing significantly to our economy through jobs ranging from construction workers to healthcare professionals.
However, despite their contributions and the humanitarian purpose of this program, TPS holders face an uncertain future as the Trump administration seeks to end this vital program for many of them.
The current administration has ended TPS for several countries including Nicaragua, Sudan, El Salvador and Haiti – leaving thousands of people facing deportation back into dangerous situations. The decision by President Trump’s administration would result in families being forcibly separated from one another after years spent building lives together.
For instance, almost 200k Salvadorans had lived legally with protected status since 2001 when two severe earthquakes caused widespread destruction throughout their country which killed more than 1k people & destroyed around 100k homes — making it difficult for those displaced people o return at that time.
In addition to ending these crucial programs without any real plan for what happens next – something that has left so many feeling hopeless – this administration is sending a message that the U.S. is no longer a place of refuge and safety. This goes against the very essence of what TPS was created to do.
As Maya Angelou also said, “When we know better, we do better.” It’s time for our government to do better by these individuals who have come to rely on TPS.
Congress must act quickly to pass legislation that would provide a pathway for citizenship or permanent residency for those currently living in the U.S. under TPS. These individuals are not criminals; they are hardworking people who have contributed significantly to our society and deserve a chance at a better life.
In addition, lawmakers must also work towards reforming our immigration system so that it reflects our values as a nation – one built on diversity, inclusivity, and compassion. This means creating an immigration system that is fair and just for all, regardless of where they come from or how much money they have.
Maya Angelou once said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” The way we treat those living under TPS is indicative of our moral character as a nation – one that has historically been built on welcoming immigrants from around the world.
It’s time for us to remember this history and live up to these values by doing right by those who have come here seeking safety and security during times of crisis. Congress must act now before it’s too late – otherwise we risk forgetting the lessons of our past while condemning many innocent lives in the present day.