The Golden Door: September 2024
CALL TO ACTION: TPS for the Democratic Republic of the Congo
ILAP joins African Communities Together and other partner organizations across the country in calling for the Biden administration to immediately designate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). TPS is a blanket protection for an entire country that prevents people already in the U.S. from being deported when conditions in that country make safe return impossible.
African Communities Together writes: “The situation in the DRC is dire and worsening. With over 7 million people in the DRC forced to flee their homes, it is time for the United States government to do the humane thing and designate the country for TPS to save thousands of Congolese individuals in the U.S. from being returned to life-threatening conditions.”
In Solidarity with Haitian Immigrants in Ohio, Maine, and Beyond
ILAP condemns the racist, dehumanizing rhetoric aimed at Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, and beyond, which unsurprisingly turned into dangerous and violent threats.
We are in solidarity with the Haitian diaspora in the United States and our hearts go out to all who are experiencing pain and fear from this latest baseless attack against Haitians and all immigrants of color. To our Haitian clients and Haitian community in Maine – you are welcome, seen, valued, and respected and ILAP will continue to advocate for an immigration system that reflects that.
ILAP's Panel Event is NEXT WEEK!
Join us next Tuesday (October 8th) to learn from ILAP's expert staff about the impact of immigration laws and policies in Maine and beyond!
This event is FREE and open to the public. We strongly encourage anyone interested in attending in-person or virtually to register online ahead of the event. We are livestreaming the event and will send viewing information to everyone who registers. Learn more about the event here.
Voting Safety for Immigrants
As the November election approaches, ILAP wants to remind everyone that only U.S. citizens can vote or register to vote. This is true for all U.S. and State elections.
If you are NOT a U.S. citizen, you SHOULD NOT register to vote or vote. This is to keep you safe. Under immigration law, non-citizens who register to vote or who vote can face serious immigration penalties, including deportation.
Are you helping others register to vote or vote? Check out ILAP's website for information about keeping immigrants safe while educating people on voting and voter registration.
ILAP and our partners put together a voting video series with an important reminder for immigrants, now available on our website:
English: www.ilapmaine.org/voting
Français: www.ilapmaine.org/voting-french
Português: www.ilapmaine.org/voting-portuguese
Español: www.ilapmaine.org/voting-spanish
Kreyòl Ayisyen: www.ilapmaine.org/voting-haitian-creole
ICYMI: ILAP is Hiring a Development Director
ILAP is seeking a Development Director who is excited to join our dedicated team as we build, innovate, and grow our fundraising efforts.
The salary range for this position is $84,000 - $94,000 and includes a generous benefits package. We will begin reviewing applications on October 15th and will continue until the position is filled.
Please help us spread the word about this exciting opportunity!