Asian Americans Advancing Justice Condemns Termination of Temporary Protected Status for Afghan Immigrants
STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 19, 2025
CONTACT:
Aleisha Flores, (771)-233-8202, aflores@advancingjustice-aajc.org
Liana Liang, lliang@ajsocal.org
James Woo, media@advancingjustice-atlanta.org
Grace Pai, gpai@advancingjustice-chicago.org
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Asian Americans Advancing Justice, a network of four independent Asian American civil rights organizations, strongly opposes the Trump administration’s decision to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for over 9,000 Afghan nationals, a move that will force individuals back into life-threatening conditions.
This decision comes despite continued instability in Afghanistan, including targeted violence, repression of women and ethnic minorities, and a humanitarian crisis worsened by economic collapse. The termination of Temporary Protected Status abandons individuals who relied on U.S. protection while they sought refuge from danger.
Ending Temporary Protected Status for Afghan nationals strips vital humanitarian safeguards from people who cannot safely return to their country. This action is another clear message about this administration's hateful view on immigrants of color and their overall willingness to ignore our commitments to those fleeing violence and persecution. Many Afghans under this protection have U.S.-born children, established livelihoods, and deep ties to their communities. Forced removal will tear families apart and put lives in immediate danger.
Asian Americans Advancing Justice urges the administration to reverse this decision and uphold Temporary Protected Status for Afghan nationals, and to ensure that our immigration system is rooted in principles of humanity, safety, and fairness.
Asian Americans Advancing Justice: Asian Americans Advancing Justice is a national affiliation of four leading Asian American civil rights organizations committed to advancing the civil and human rights of Asian Americans and building a more just society for all.
