Venezuelans in North Texas Find Temporary Relief from TPS Termination
A federal judge has temporarily halted President Trump’s efforts to end Temporary Protected Status for Venezuelans. The decision brings temporary relief to approximately 350,000 beneficiaries, including families in North Texas. However, uncertainty remains as fears of potential deportation persist, particularly among those with ties to political opposition in Venezuela.
The recent decision by a federal judge to delay the effort to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelans has provided a temporary sense of relief for many residing in North Texas. Néstor Cuevas, who has lived in the area for three years with his family, expressed gratitude upon hearing the news. This relief follows U.S. District Judge Edward Chen’s ruling which halts President Trump’s attempt to terminate TPS, which safeguards Venezuelans from deportation and grants work authorization.
Approximately 350,000 Venezuelans benefit from TPS, which was due to expire on April 7. This program allows them to remain in the U.S. legally, avoiding potential deportation that would follow the termination of TPS. Cuevas and his wife, Yexi Carolina Mileno, had left Venezuela due to threats related to military extortion, ultimately finding refuge in the U.S. Their daughters are now pursuing education, and the couple has begun to rebuild their lives professionally.
Delmy Gómez of the National TPS Alliance noted the collective anxiety felt within families like the Cuevas, who appreciate the stay but remain fearful of potential changes to the TPS program. She emphasized the determination of community leaders to continue advocating for their rights and protections.
TPS, established by Congress in 1990, was designed for individuals unable to return safely to their home countries due to conflicts, disasters, or extraordinary conditions. Currently, approximately 1.1 million individuals from 17 nations hold TPS, with Venezuelans representing the largest group.
The Cuevas family, initially ineligible for TPS under the Biden administration’s earlier extension, became beneficiaries when Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas announced a redesignation in October 2023. However, the Trump administration recently moved to terminate this TPS designation, citing changes in conditions.
Despite the legal battles surrounding TPS, the uncertainty regarding the future remains daunting for families like the Cuevas. They fear deportation due to Cuevas’s outspoken criticism of the Maduro government. His apprehension reflects a broader sentiment among Venezuelans who have fled persecution and dread the possibility of returning to that environment.
The recent ruling to delay the termination of TPS has offered some respite for Venezuelans in North Texas, alleviating immediate fears of deportation. However, uncertainty continues to loom over the future of the TPS program, affecting families deeply. As they navigate their situation, community leaders are committed to advocating for their rights and ensuring their voices are heard amidst the evolving political landscape.
Original Source: www.dallasnews.com
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