Loading ...ACRL participates in Yemen Temporary Protected Status presentation in Dearborn
On October 15, 2015, the Arab-American Civil Rights League (“ACRL”) Chairman Nabih Ayad participated in a panel presentation at UAW Local 600 regarding Yemen’s recent Temporary Protected Status (“TPS”) designation. As an immigration law expert, Chairman Ayad joined several high-ranking USCIS Detroit officials and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell in addressing many of the local Yemeni community’s concerns. Turnout at the event was high, with several local leaders voicing concerns for family and friends still trapped overseas in Yemen and the region.
TPS affords Yemeni nationals already in the United States with temporary lawful status and the ability to work. Unfortunately, TPS cannot be used to bring immigrants and refugees from Yemen to the United States. Yemeni nationals approved under TPS will not be removed from the United States until the current TPS period expires or is not renewed. The current TPS designation remains in effect until March 7, 2017, with the potential for the TPS designation to be extended for additional periods of time. The ACRL reminds potential applicants that all TPS applications must be approved byMarch 1, 2016. Please note that fee waivers are available for individuals who do not have the financial resources to pay the customary filing fees.
The ACRL sincerely thanks USCIS Field Office Director Michael Klinger and his colleagues, who went above and beyond to accommodate and assist as many individuals as possible, both during and after the presentation. “I was very impressed by Director Klinger’s genuine desire to help some of the most vulnerable people in our community. It was heartening to see the professionalism, dedication, and compassion demonstrated by Mr. Klinger and his colleagues at USCIS Detroit.
The ACRL encourages USCIS to continue its efforts to educate and engage the Yemeni community with regards to available immigration benefits,” said Chairman Ayad. “Furthermore, it is clear from the opinions expressed at the presentation, that there is a need for continued discussions as to how the Arab-American community can work with local, state, and federal leaders to help solve the humanitarian crisis gripping Yemen and the region. The ACRL looks forward to working with Congresswoman Dingell’s office and USCIS to host more events aimed at addressing the myriad issues affecting our community both here and abroad.”
The ACRL is currently coordinating with Congresswoman Dingell, USCIS Detroit, and other community organizations to plan additional community meetings in the near future. The ACRL will also be donating free legal services to Yemeni TPS applicants who require legal assistance in these most-difficult times. The ACRL will provide updates on the additional meetings as details are confirmed. Those seeking legal help with the TPS process are encouraged to contact the ACRL at (313) 633-0231 for more information.
Complied by Arab America