Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 3123, which would allow Liberians living in the United States to be eligible for a one year extension of their temporary protected status.  This measure, introduced by my colleague from Rhode Island, Representative Kennedy, will give Liberian refugees in our state an opportunity to plan their return home instead of being forced back before they are ready. 

For many years, Liberians were ruled by the cruel hands of dictators, including Samuel Doe and Charles Taylor.  They controlled their country by fear and violence, which provoked the United States government in 1991 to seek temporary protected status for Liberian nationals who were in the US. 

Since Charles Taylor was forced out of office, Liberia has made progress in peace and democracy building efforts, and the election of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in 2005 has brought stability to the region.  President Johnson Sirleaf has made many efforts to improve relations with both the U.S. government and Liberian communities across our country.  However, Liberia's security situation, while stable, is still fragile, and its economy and state structures remain devastated by war.

In Rhode Island, our Liberian population has become part of the fabric of our community.  They work for local companies, they attend our schools, and they enrich cities and towns.  The majority of Liberians in our state wants to return to their homeland, but they understandably wish to first ensure the country’s safety and stability.  In the meantime, they are learning how to better serve their country by taking advantage of opportunities offered to them in the United States.  They are an integral part of our communities, and in return, we owe them the chance to return when they are ready—and without fear-- to Liberia.

Thank you, Madam Speaker.