Senator Gill Statement on Ninth Circuit Decision Threatening Temporary Protected Status

MONTCLAIR – On August 14th, the Ninth Circuit Court ruled in favor of the Trump Administration’s attempt to end humanitarian protections for immigrants living in the United States. This ruling threatens the Temporary Protected Status of over 300,000 immigrants across the United States, tens of thousands of whom live in New Jersey, clearing the way for their potential deportation starting next year. Temporary Protected Status recipients have substantial economic and social roots in communities across the state and as we grapple with the COVID-19, many are assisting in this crisis by performing essential work.

It is cruel and inhumane to attempt to deport individuals during a national pandemic. Once again, the Trump Administration has shown its xenophobic distain for America’s diversity by attacking a program designed to help those facing natural disasters and armed conflict who come to the United States in search of a better life. This ruling will devastate communities with immigrants that hail from Haiti, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Sudan. This action undermines the very foundation that makes this nation great; the benefit we gain from immigration to bolster our culture and our economy. The Trump administration has cast aside the promise on the Statue of Liberty, “give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, the wretched refuse of your teeming shore.”

We must hold dear the promise of a land that welcomes immigrants and celebrates diversity. The same
promise which was afforded to almost every individual who calls themselves an American. These are our
neighbors, our friends, our frontline heroes, store owners and so many others that help support and build upon our beloved community. These families would be forced to leave their homes, families, friend and children.

We must do all that we can to overturn this decision. This November, we must keep consequences like this in mind when we mail in our ballots or visit a polling location. This election is not simply about selecting our leaders, it is about saving the soul of this nation. This is an inhumane action and must be stopped. New Jersey must stand at the front line for protecting our communities.