Jiménez Commends Temporary Work Authorization for Recent Migrants, Calls for More Action

CHICAGO — State Rep. Lilian Jiménez, D-Chicago, released the following statement regarding the Biden administration’s announcement on expanding temporary protected status authorizations for recent Venezuelan nationals. 

“As the daughter of a parent who was undocumented for almost 40 years, I know too well the struggles of our community members who have been denied legal status for decades” Jiménez said. “The denial of work authorization and legal status has led to massive worker exploitation and compromises the safety of our communities.

“I commend President Biden for this compassionate, forward-thinking policy, which extends a lifeline to thousands of Venezuelan nationals who want to call the U.S. home. This initiative reflects the principles of inclusivity, humanitarianism, and fairness that our nation stands for and is a first step in the right direction.

“Our work doesn’t end here. We need to further address the challenges faced by undocumented individuals living in the United States by creating robust, commonsense mechanisms to address longstanding immigration processing issues.” 

Jiménez led the adoption of House Resolution 81 which called on the federal government to take needed action so that asylum seekers have an opportunity to support themselves and their families without fear of deportation. 

###