ADC Files for Redesignation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Syrian Nationals

posted on: Apr 9, 2013

Today the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC), supported by a broad coalition of community partners, filed an official request to extend the existing designation and redesignate Syria for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). The request was filed with Secretary Janet Napolitano of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in accordance and pursuant to 8 U.S.C. § 1254a.

ADC President Warren David said, “ADC led the initiative to approve TPS for Syrian nationals last year, and we are hopefull it will be re-designated again this year.” He went on to say, “TPS is important because it allows Syrian nationals to remain in the US legally, to obtain work authorization, and to be granted permission to travel.”

Director of Legal & Policy Affairs, Abed Ayoub commented, “The initial designation of TPS for Syrian Nationals by DHS was a welcomed step. However over the past year the violence has escalated and the need for a redesignation is apparent. Each day ADC receives numerous inquiries about TPS and it is our hope that the redesignation would benefit those currently in the US. ADC welcomes the opportunity to continue working with DHS, and our coalition partners, to ensure that the TPS redesignation is obtained.”

Under 8 U.S.C. § 1254a, the Department of Homeland Security may designate any foreign state or part of a foreign state for Temporary Protected Status if there is ongoing armed conflict within the state and, due to the conflict, requiring the return of nationals to that state or part of a state would pose a serious threat to their personal safety. The facts presented in the petition make it clear that the ongoing conflict in Syria has made the country unsafe, and the conditions pose a serious threat to the personal safety of those forced to return.

Granting TPS offers the U.S. government a proactive measure to directly assist innocent Syrian civilians. ADC will continue its campaign to ensure that the TPS request is granted.