Last week, U.S. Rep. Joe Neguse (D-CO) was one of over 70 U.S. Congresspeople who signed a bipartisan letter calling on the Biden administration to provide humanitarian aid for refugees fleeing Ukraine.
In a statement from his office, Neguse said: “When democracy is threatened, as it has been, America must stand as a beacon of hope and lead our allies in providing swift and comprehensive humanitarian assistance, as well as expediting special visa status for Ukrainian refugees eligible to find safe shelter in America. As the son of refugees, whose parents fled a war-torn nation in East Africa over 40 years ago, I mean it when I say these actions to provide aid and shelter will make the difference for countless individuals.”
According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, more than 1.5 million refugees have fled Ukraine in the days following Russia’s invasion, undoubtedly with more to come. The letter urges the Biden administration to mitigate this growing refugee crisis.
Last week, the Biden administration announced that Ukrainians in the U.S. as of March 1 would be granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS). This means that they are protected from deportation for the next 18 months. Ukrainians under TPS will also be given work permits.
Additionally, last weekend, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited a Polish welcome center set up for refugees fleeing Ukraine.
The letter to the Biden administration concludes: “We ask that you share plans to deliver aid and update Congress on how the U.S. is coordinating with the international community and NGOs to accommodate Ukrainian refugees. We stand ready to work hand in hand with you to ensure that Congress provides any additional resources necessary to avert further catastrophe.”
Read the full letter here.
