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Asking Congress for the reinstatement of deferred enforced departure for Liberians.
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WHEREAS, Liberians have called Saint Paul and Minnesota home for over 40 years;
WHEREAS, Our great state is home to the largest population of Liberians in the United States and Liberians are a significant part of our multi-cultural identity. They are part of the social fabric and instrumental in the of our communities. Their professional titles span spaces of leadership, education, politics, and our workforce;
WHEREAS, On March 31, 2019, Liberian Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) is set to expire leaving about 4,000 DED holders in without status and in danger. This will cause many families to be separated and broken up, some will close their business and be forced to sell their homes. Their departure from our schools, businesses and places of work will have a major negative impact on the economic and social state of our City;
WHEREAS, Our immigration system has failed and we need Congress to pass legislation protecting and providing a pathway for Citizenship for DED holders now;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, The Saint Paul City Council urges the Minnesota Congressional Delegation to pressure Congressional leadership to act swiftly to protect our Liberian neighbors and friends by passing comprehensive immigration reform and by urging President Trump to reinstate DED, if legislation is not passed in time by the March 31, 2019 deadline;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, The Saint Paul City Council is directed to send a copy of this resolution and letter to the Minnesota Congressional Delegation.