New York, NY—The New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC) applauded the announcement by the Department of Homeland Security regarding the designation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Sudan, and the extension and redesignation of TPS and Special Student Relief (SSR) for South Sudan. While NYIC welcomed these actions, it voiced concern regarding the continued exclusion from similar protections facing Haitians, Cameroonians, Ethiopians, Mauritanians, Black migrants attempting to flee Ukraine, and other Black migrants.
During his State of the Union address, President Biden discussed a faster legal process for people seeking safety in the United States. While efficiency is critical–particularly considering the current asylum backlog–the president must not forget equity.
Murad Awawdeh, Executive Director, New York Immigration Coalition:
"We applaud the Biden administration’s recognition of the human rights catastrophe facing both Sudanese and South Sudanese families. The TPS designation of Sudan and redesignation of South Sudan are important first steps to achieving real protections for Black migrants, but far more remains to be done to ensure the safety and security of all those fleeing violence and destruction. President Biden must also designate TPS to those from other Black-majority countries including Cameroon, Mauritania, and Ethiopia, among others, end anti-Black, anti-asylum policies, and commit to welcoming all people with dignity."
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