Press Releases
Dingell Hosts Information Session for Yemeni Nationals Applying for Temporary Protected Status
Dearborn, MI,
October 14, 2015
Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-12) today hosted an information session for Yemeni nationals who wish to apply for temporary protected status (TPS) through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Yemen was designated for TPS on September 3, 2015 due to the ongoing armed conflict within the country. The designation means that, from September 3, 2015 through March 3, 2017, eligible nationals of Yemen who are approved for TPS will be allowed to stay legally in the United States.
“This critical designation provides peace of mind to families and friends whose required return to their country would have put their lives at risk,” said Dingell. “Today’s event helped ensure those eligible for TPS received the assistance and information necessary to receive the designation.
“There continue to be significant problems that need to be addressed in Yemen. Families have told me devastating stories of loved ones who are trapped in a war zone and unable to return home, or grandparents who now have difficulty accessing food and water due to the conflict. We must continue working together to seek a negotiated solution to the crisis, improve the humanitarian conditions on the ground, and help Yemeni Americans return home. Thank you to USCIS and all of the organizations and individuals who helped make this event a success.”
Staff members from USCIS and Dingell’s office were on hand to provide information about the TPS application process and eligibility requirements. Additional information about TPS is available at www.uscis.gov/humanitarian/temporary-protected-status. Members of the community who need assistance should contact Dingell’s Dearborn office at 313-278-2936.
Dingell has worked closely with the Yemeni community since the conflict began. She championed language to prioritize the evacuation of U.S. citizens from Yemen in the final FY2016 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) report. Today, she joined Representatives Keith Ellison (MN-05), Ted Lieu (CA-33) and 10 additional Members of Congress in sending a letter to the President urging greater efforts to avoid civilian casualties in Yemen.
Earlier this year, Dingell wrote a letter to Secretary of State John Kerry urging the State Department to take increased steps to evacuate American citizens, protect those stranded in Yemen, and improve communication with families. The letter can be read in full here.
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