OVER 26 SYRIAN-AMERICAN ORGANIZATIONS SUBMIT REQUEST FOR TPS EXTENSION AND REDESIGNATION

Washington, DC - The Coalition for a Democratic Syria (CDS) filed a request this week with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) urging that body to renew and re-designate Syria for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). In accordance with 8 U.S.C. § 1254a, the Secretary of Homeland Security may designate a foreign country for TPS due to conditions in the country that temporarily prevent the country's nationals from returning safely. The ongoing conflict in Syria, with Assad and his allies' constant civilian killing and the increasing prevalence of extremist groups like ISIS, requires that TPS be extended and re-designated.

Washington, DC - The Coalition for a Democratic Syria (CDS) filed a request this week with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) urging that body to renew and re-designate Syria for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). In accordance with 8 U.S.C. § 1254a, the Secretary of Homeland Security may designate a foreign country for TPS due to conditions in the country that temporarily prevent the country's nationals from returning safely. The ongoing conflict in Syria, with Assad and his allies' constant civilian killing and the increasing prevalence of extremist groups like ISIS, requires that TPS be extended and re-designated.

The signatories, which include the members of CDS and the American Relief Coalition for Syria (ARCS), represent the families and friends of refugees--those suffering under Assad, Russia, and Iran's crimes against humanity, and terrorism from the Islamic State. These myriad threats present an untenable reality for Syrians living in the United States.

"We are incredibly grateful to the United States Department of Homeland Security for protecting Syrians living in the United States from having to return to face the threats Assad, Russia, Iran, and ISIS through TPS," said CDS Government Relations Chair Muna Jondy. "This is why we are requesting another designation, to protect our countrymen and women from extremism and tyranny."

The signatories to the request include:

United for a Free Syria, Syrian Emergency Task Force, Syrian American Council, Syrian American Alliance, Syrian Christians for Peace, Association of Free Syrians; ARCS includes Hope for Syria, Karam Foundation, Syrian American Medical Society (SAMS), Syrian Expatriates Organization, Syria Relief and Development, Syrian Forum, SWASIA Charity Foundation, Mercy Without Limits, Syrian American Engineers Association, Syrian Community Network, Shaam Relief Foundation, Rahma Relief Foundation