WASHINGTON, DC- The Union of Liberian Associations of the Americas (ULAA) has praised US President Donald Trump for signing into law a bill Granting Permanent Residency Status (Green Card) to an estimated 4,000 Liberians residing in the United States presently on Deferred Enforced Departure (DED).
This also benefits those who previously were on Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 included a provision to bring relief to Liberians whose temporary immigration status has been renewed for 28 successive years.
“After decades of uncertainty, this is a huge win for my Liberian brothers and sisters and a great day for America. This provision will adjust the status of Liberians on DED and those formerly on TPS to enable them to apply for permanent residency. Liberians who’ve legally lived here for years paid taxes, and made so many positive contributions to their various communities, especially in Rhode Island, deserve the opportunity to get on a path to becoming full citizens. Everything they have in America they’ve earned through hard work and hard work should be rewarded.”– U.S. Senator John Francis Reed
In a press release on Saturday, December 21, 2019, ULAA also extends thanks and appreciation to President Trump for signing the bill, Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI) and his fellow congressional colleagues for their tireless efforts and commitment for keeping the DED/TPS on the forefront over the years.
And like-wise, ULAA cites the countless number of people who worked very assiduously to make this monumental dream to become a reality for Liberians.