Organizations and legislators urgently call to grant TPS to Guatemalans

Organizations and members of Congress are asking the urgent designation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Guatemala or the granting of Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) for Guatemalan nationals residing in the United States.

TPS would provide essential protections to Guatemalans already residing in the United States, protecting them from forced return to dangerous and unstable conditionsdue to the escalation of humanitarian and environmental crises in Guatemala.

And although Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) is not a specific immigration status, individuals protected by DED are not subject to removal from the United States, generally for a designated period of time.

Any of these immigration reliefs that apply, would provide temporary safe haven and the ability to apply for work authorization to Guatemalans living in the United States today, the vast majority of whom have lived here for many years and are deeply integrated into the fabric of American families and communities.

Recently, Representatives Lou Correa (D-Calif.) and Gerry Connolly (D-Virginia) led nearly 60 members of Congress in urging the Biden-Harris Administration to designate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Guatemalan citizens residing in the United States.

In their letter, they highlighted current challenges in Guatemala, including serious natural disasters, corruption and violencewhich prevent many from returning safely to their country of origin.

Additionally, more than 20 organizations have joined this call for humanitarian protection, emphasizing the urgent need for support for Guatemalan citizens.

These organizations represent a diverse coalition advocating for the well-being and safety of people who have fled extreme conditions. Their collective voice underlines the humanitarian crisis faced by many people in Guatemala and the critical importance of provide protection to those already in the United States.

Numerous Guatemalans residing in the United States would benefit from immigration protection if it is authorized.

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