Rep. Gregory W. Meeks Urges Department of Homeland Security to Grant Temporary Protected Status to Jamaica After Hurricane Melissa

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Gregory W. Meeks (NY-05) joined Rep. Yvette Clarke (NY-09) and 42 House Democrats in a letter calling on U.S. Department of Homeland (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem to grant immediate designation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Jamaica after the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa. 

“For Jamaicans living in America, TPS would provide them with the safety and stability needed following the horrific storm that devastated the island leaving families displaced and homes destroyed,” Rep. Meeks said. “Now is the time for the United States to stand with Jamaica. Granting TPS is not only an act of compassion but of solidarity – ensuring that those already here are not sent back into dangerous and unstable conditions.” 

The Members wrote in the letter:

“Jamaica is currently confronting widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. The storm has left countless residents without homes, electricity, clean water, or access to medical care. Roads and vital infrastructure have been destroyed, communities are struggling to recover, and the Government of Jamaica faces immense challenges in restoring essential services. Tens of thousands have been displaced, and recovery is expected to take months – if not years. Under these conditions, it would be unsafe and inhumane to require Jamaican nationals currently residing in the United States to return home.”

Read the full letter, here. 

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