It has been brought to the attention of the IIJD that an urgent situation that needs your support. Currently in the US, there are 11,000 Liberian at-risk immigrants who sought asylum from the turmoil of Liberia in the past two decades. Recently, however, these Liberian refugees are at risk from losing temporary work permits in the United States and may resort to returning to Liberia or even be departed by the government. The US Department of Homeland Security has recently terminated the designation of these Liberians as under Temporary Protected Status (TPS). While extending Employment Authorization Documents until April of 2007, the US will act to deport TPS beneficiaries after September 30, 2007.

While Her Excellency Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf has brought hope to war-torn Liberia, the country must confront unbelievably harsh economic and political circumstances. As of 2003, the CIA World Factbook reports that unemployment in Liberia was at an astonishing 85%. Liberia would not be able to absorb this influx of deportees or those who face no other choice than to return to Liberia. The efforts of Her Excellency Johnson-Sirleaf in rebuilding Liberia would be greatly challenged with this new wave of persons. Additionally, the lives of those returning would likely be harsh given that Liberia has much work to do to ensure public goods and work for their returning émigrés. Without jobs or support networks in place, a potential breeding ground for crime, instability, and misery will be created in Liberia's young democracy.

To prevent further pain on the part of these persons, a humanitarian crisis, and promote peace and stability in Liberia, the IIJD recommends writing to your local congressman or senator and expressing your support for an extension of Temporary Protected Status for the Liberians in the US. This will allow Liberians living in the US to stay until Liberia is ready and able to receive its people abroad. Our commitment to the democratization of Liberia does not include creating a potential humanitarian crisis; the US must not yet return these émigrés to Liberia. Please do not hesitate to contact the IIJD or Mr. Torli Klua, the Executive Director of Universal Human Rights International, for more information on this important mission.