Catholic Lobby Commends Decision to Designate Ukraine for Temporary Protected Status

For Immediate Release: March 3, 2022
Contact: Colleen Ross | cross@networklobby.org | 202-601-7877

Catholic Lobby Commends Decision to Designate Ukraine for Temporary Protected Status
Ronnate Asirwatham: “We applaud the Biden administration for designating TPS for Ukraine and continue to ask the Administration to protect all who are fleeing violence, death, and destruction from any part of the world.” 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the designation of Ukraine for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months. DHS has the authority to extend Temporary Protected Status to citizens of countries where armed conflict, natural disaster or other extraordinary circumstances prevent their safe return home.

The Migration Policy Institute estimates that roughly 30,000 Ukrainians in the United States would be potential beneficiaries of TPS or DED, as they do not have U.S. citizenship or permanent status.

Mary J. Novak, Executive Director of NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, said:  

“The ongoing war and senseless violence experienced as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is sinful. Temporary Protected Status will be a life-saving program for Ukrainians in the U.S. given the ongoing armed conflict in their home country. We extend our gratitude to Secretary Mayorkas for acting in solidarity with Ukrainian nationals in the United States during this difficult time.” 

Ronnate Asirwatham, NETWORK Government Relations Director, said: 

“We applaud the Biden administration for designating TPS for Ukraine and continue to ask the Administration to protect all who are fleeing violence, death and destruction from any part of the world. People of faith urge President Biden to end the misuse of Title 42, restoring the ability to seek asylum at our southern border, and designate TPS for Cameroonians, Mauritanians, and Afghans, among others.” 

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NETWORK – advocates for justice inspired by Catholic sisters – educates, organizes, and lobbies for economic and social transformation. They have a nearly 50-year track record of lobbying for critical federal programs that support those at the margins and prioritize the common good.