SEND AN EMAIL DIRECTLY TO THE WHITE HOUSE ASKING FOR T.P.S. FOR GUATEMALA
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Distinguished President Obama,
A few months ago, we were extremely joyful when your administration decided to grant Temporary Protective Status (TPS) to Haitians living in the United States after the devastating earthquake in that country. Some years ago, we celebrated with Salvadorans, Hondurans & Nicaraguans when a TPS was authorized for them. For El Salvador it was based on several natural disasters. For Honduras and Nicaragua, it was a consequence of Hurricane Mitch’s impact. We have also celebrated the yearly extensions of TPS for nationals of these three countries.
Hurricane Mitch caused as much damage and loss of life in Guatemala as in the rest of Central America, but then-President Arzú arrogantly rejected the idea of requesting any sort of aid to Guatemala, including a TPS for our nationals in the United States. When Hurricane Stan hit Guatemala, President Berger approached the Bush Administration to request the TPS. Despite the loss of life and extensive damage, that request was never granted, due to the intense debate on immigration reform in Congress at that time.
Recently, tropical storm Agatha hit Guatemala and compounded the impact caused by the eruption of the Pacaya Volcano a few days before. The result is once again loss of life and devastation. For that reason, on June 4th President Colom presented a request for TPS to the proper authorities of the United States. Both organs of the state and organizations of civil society in Guatemala, including migrant organizations, have sent numerous messages to Secretary for Homeland Security Janet Napolitano in support of the official request. We urge you, Mr. President, to make a favorable decision regarding TPS for Guatemalans. That would be an act of justice and solidarity.
Sincerely:
Your signature.