In our newsletter of December 4th, 2006 we informed you about the problem that thousands of Liberian refugees now face in the USA. This is and 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. However, these Liberian refugees are at risk of losing temporary work permits in the United States and will be forced to return to Liberia or even be deported 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.

We still remember that it was just a couple of months ago that, with the assistance of the United States and the international community, the regime of Charles Taylor was ended and Liberia started its recovery process from a long civil war. While Her Excellency Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf has brought hope to war-torn Liberia, the country must confront unbelievably harsh economic and political circumstances. With an astonishing 85% of unemployment rate in Liberia, that country can not absorb this influx of deportees or those who face no other choice than to return to Liberia now. The efforts of President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf Administration 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 services and work for their returning émigrés. These Liberians have established careers, bought homes, have American born children in American school. The America’s Liberian Community also contribute in the Liberia rebuilding efforts by sending remittances to support family members in Liberia or by contributing their expertise. 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 joins President Johnson- Sirleaf in demanding that residency or at least continuing protection status be granted to these Liberians firmly established in their communities in the USA and contribute to the current Liberia’s reform and development process.

In the meantime, on this holiday’s season, the IIJD is joining the Universal Human Rights International (URHI) in launching a nationwide awareness campaign on the plight of 10,000 refugees from Liberia and Sierra Leone who have recently been denied the right to work in the US. The campaign starts with a gospel concert and human rights lecture by Mr. Torli Krua, the Executive Director of the URHI.

The IIJD recommends writing to your local Congress(wo)men or Senators and ask that they join the members of United State Congress Patrick J. Kennedy; Sheila Jackson-Lee; James E. Clyburn; Donald M. Payne; James R. Langevin; Stephen F. Lynch; Jim McDermott; Alcee L. Hastings; and Janice D. Schakowsky who have already signed a letter to President Bush urging extension of the TPS or grant of Deferred Enforced Departure.

In addition, there are other ways you can help: First, get the official facts about this plight and publish the information in your weekly bulletin to create awareness and support. Second, consider ordering and viewing a refugee DVD to hear and appreciate the testimonies and plight of these refugees. DVD is free; however, please send a donation to help cover shipping costs. Third, Join the UHRI and the IIJD in making donations to meet the urgent needs of food and warm clothing. On December 21, 2006, the UHRI will present new warm clothing and gift certificates to these jobless refugees denied TPS and those whose TPS was terminated. Distribution will be made on a first come first serve basics. You can make a difference.

To support this initiative, please contact the IIJD at (617)-541-9500, or send your gifts to: Liberia Center C/O UHRI 31 Heath Street Boston, MA 02130