We hope that everyone enjoyed a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday and had the opportunity to reflect upon the good thing we have in our lives: our health, the food on our table, the roof over our head, our freedom, and our friends, friendships and communities. Thank you for your business and friendship!
PUSH FOR TPS FOR FILIPINOS
On November 8th, Typhoon Haiyan devastated the Philippines, killing over 5,000 people. In light of this natural disaster, government officials have asked the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to extend Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to Filipinos living in the United States. TPS is an immigration status offered to nationals of a country if they are suffering from an environmental disaster or continued armed conflict or other extraordinary conditions. Foreign nationals in the U.S. with TPS are protected from deportation and allowed to work legally. So far, 30 members of the House of Representatives and 20 Senators—all bipartisan groups—have written the acting Secretary of DHS, to ask for TPS for Filipinos. In the past, the U.S. has granted TPS to other countries, i.e. El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, and Syria. For relief measures available to Filipinos call the National Customer Service Center at 1800-375 5283.
IMMIGRATION INTEGRATION ACROSS THE COUNTRY
The tide is beginning to change for immigrants illegally living in the United States. In Tucson, Arizona—a city famous for its controversial immigration laws—city leaders are revising how police enact SB 1070 the “papers, please” law. For example, minors must be with a guardian or an attorney when they are being questioned. This growing trend of being more hospitable towards immigrants is being seen across the country. Chicago, Illinois, Dayton, Ohio, and Chattanooga, Tennessee have all recently put programs into place to include the immigrant communities. Texas, Colorado and 12 other states grant in-state tuition and California and Illinois issue Driver’s Licenses to undocumented individuals. The country as a whole is finally starting to praise immigrants and their invaluable contributions to society.
“FAST FOR FAMILIES”
In Washington, DC, activists have been fasting in protest of the inaction of immigration reform. Friday, November 29th was the 18th day of the “Fast for Families” and President Obama visited the activists. The President applauded their efforts and again reassured activists that immigration reform is a priority for him. Several other government officials have visited the activists to show their support and pray with them.
As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the office!
Susan W. Scheer and Staff
– See more at: https://www.susanscheerimmigrationlaw.com/blog/congratulations-to-the-many-clients-who-we-have-helped-become-green-card-holders-citizens-this-past-year/#sthash.cqxEsMOM.dpuf
