Highlights Display Need for Congress to Pass Dream and Promise Act to Protect Families from Deportation
Countdown to DED Expiration: 4 Days
A year ago, the Trump administration unlawfully terminated the Deferred Enforcement Departure (DED) program for thousands of Liberians, some of whom have lived and worked in the U.S. for decades. As the March 31st deadline for expiration nears, Liberian lives have been thrown into limbo with the threat of possible family separation and forced deportation to a country that is still plagued by poverty.
While a lawsuit has been filed on behalf of immigration groups and DED holders to stop the expiration of the program, this cannot be relied upon to keep families together. It is imperative that Congress act to pass the Dream and Promise Act to provide Liberian immigrants with protection from deportation.
Since the administration’s announcement to terminate the program, Liberian DED holders have come forward with their stories about how they’ve been able thrive under DED and contribute to their communities. Congressional members and local communities have repeatedly expressed concerns over this issue as well. Here are key highlights:
The Guardian: ‘I was raised an American’: Liberians await possible deportation from US
Roll Call: Ph.D. student faces deportation to Liberia, where she has never lived
ThinkProgress: The Dream and Promise Act is the only hope left for Liberians abandoned by the Trump administration
Episcopal News Service: Liberians face looming deportation deadline as Episcopal leaders join calls for leniency
