(LibertySociety.com) – The United States has always been known for its humanitarian efforts. We’re also known as a “melting pot” because of the wide range of cultures that exist within our country, but all blend together. Each year, the US accepts thousands of refugees, but that isn’t the only way the government helps the downtrodden.
There are a few programs that specifically allow people to remain in the US temporarily. All three of the initiatives allow immigrants to remain legally in the country even if they originally entered illegally, but none of the programs provide a path to citizenship. Let’s take a look at them.
Deferred Enforced Departure
The DED program was once known as Extended Voluntary Departure. Former President George H.W. Bush created the program in 1990 for citizens from countries experiencing turmoil. It allows the executive branch to permit immigrants to stay in the US for a certain period. President Donald Trump extended the program through 2021.
Immigrants who have status under the DED program can work legally in the country until the president says otherwise. Currently, only Liberians have DED status.
Temporary Protected Status
TPS is a lot like the DED program. It was created to help immigrants fleeing countries experiencing problems related to a natural disaster, armed conflict, or some other temporary condition that make conditions unsafe. Those granted status under the program may live and work in the US legally.
There are more than 400,000 immigrants in America with TPS status. TPS may cover applicants from the following countries:
- South Sudan
- Sudan
- El Salvador
- Syria
- Honduras
- Somalia
- Haiti
- Nepal
- Nicaragua
- Yemen
President Trump is winding down TPS for certain countries. For instance, immigrants from Haiti, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua, Sudan, and El Salvador are only protected through January 4, 2021. But the president could choose to extend the program again.
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
In 2012, former President Barack Obama implemented the DACA program through executive action. The program allows immigrants who arrived in the US as children and who have lived here continuously since June 15, 2007, to stay in the country legally. They receive work permits that allow them to attend college and find employment. Immigrants under this status must renew it every two years.
The program is currently ongoing, but the Trump administration is not accepting new applicants.
All of these programs show the USA’s willingness to help people from other countries when they need it. It’s part of what makes America great.
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