Understanding TPS

An announcement made by the U.S. president on social media about ending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somali residents sparked strong reactions across Minnesota. 

Many key leaders and political figures such as Congresswoman Omar, Attorney General Ellison, St. Paul Mayor-elect Kaohly Her, and Executive Director of Ayada Leads Dr. Habon responded at the Minnesota Capitol Gathering.

As a result of the social media post, local rallies and an organized community responded, expressing their concerns, standing in solidarity with the Somali community.

This strong public reaction can be better understood by knowing what Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is and how eliminating this policy can impact these communities and potentially other communities at large.

To begin: What is Temporary Protected Status?

TPS is a humanitarian immigration program that allows people from certain countries to live and work in the United States temporarily when conditions in their home countries, such as war or natural disasters, make it unsafe to return.

If TPS is removed from Somali residents in Minnesota, families, friends, and community members who have been working, living, and building their lives in Minnesota would face uncertainty and fear.

To illustrate this point, picture this: If a person came to this country under TPS, established themselves. and build a family who are native to this country, then suddenly they were removed from the rest of their family.

What happens to their children?  How many families will be separated from each other?

A removal of this policy would have adverse effects not only on Somali communities, but also on other communities, local economies, schools, families, and generate even more fear for other immigrant communities.

Understanding TPS is not only crucial to those it will personally impact, it is crucial for the state of Minnesota.