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Author: Laura Perras

Featured Author: Laura Perras

Policy Updates – 10/22/2026

DHS indefinitely extended TPS for Ukraine and Sudan on Monday; those with protections will retain status for the time being. TPS for these countries was set to expire on October 19, but the agency declined to announce any decision on the future of over 100,000 people impacted, only saying that an announcement “will be made … Continued

Advancing Policy Solutions for Immigrant Mental Health

Immigrant and refugee families in Massachusetts are carrying an enormous weight. Increased enforcement, the loss of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for many families, including many with children who are U.S. citizens, and constant federal policy shifts are taking a real toll on mental health. Meanwhile, people seeking help face long wait times, language gaps, insurance … Continued

TPS for Ukraine and Sudan still valid

TPS for Ukraine and Sudan still valid Temporary Protected Status (TPS) protections are still in effect for TPS holders from Ukraine and Sudan. The TPS designation for Ukraine and Sudan was set to expire on October 19, 2026. However, the Trump Administration has not announced whether the designation will be terminated or extended. Until further … Continued

State Lawmakers, Advocates, and Internationally-Trained Physicians Celebrate New Law Addressing Massachusetts Physician Shortage

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BOSTON – State lawmakers joined immigration and healthcare advocates, as well as internationally-trained physicians, to celebrate the passage of a new law that will help the state address its severe physician shortage and empower immigrant physicians to put their knowledge and skills to use to serve the residents of the Commonwealth. “Expanding avenues for qualified … Continued

Featured MIRA Member Organization: SUUYT – Shut Up Until You There

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SUUYT is dedicated to empowering individuals holistically. Their mission is to guide individuals toward thriving, recognizing that every journey is unique. They prioritize mental health, foster community connections, offer personalized assistance, and harness the power of mentorship to unlock potential. Website: www.suuyt.org Contact Information: Email: rdjema@suuyt.org Phone: 781-888-1548 Programs Offered: Mental Health Support: Provided through … Continued

MIRA Coalition: Here and Ready

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In the days following the election, many of us at MIRA Coalition were feeling challenged.  Some of us were afraid for ourselves and our families.  Some of us worried about the workload ahead to speak up for immigrant rights under an administration hostile to immigrants.  Some of us felt simply overwhelmed at how to start … Continued

MIRA wraps up 35 TPS clinics in 50 days!

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MIRA, in partnership with the Office for Refugees and Immigrants (ORI), hosted a series of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) clinics across Massachusetts from September 30 to November 22, 2024. This large-scale collaborative effort, involving ORI, IFSI-USA, and numerous community-based organizations, successfully assisted over 3,200 individuals in applying for TPS. TPS is a humanitarian program that … Continued

Victory for the Physicians Pathway Act!

Blog News

Thanks to your support, on Wednesday, November 20th, Governor Healey signed the Physician Pathway Act into law! Tucked inside the massive economic development bill enacted last week, the Physician Pathway Act will address acute physician shortages in underserved communities by mobilizing the expertise of our Commonwealth’s experienced internationally-trained physicians. The new law will create a … Continued

Statement in Response to the Election of Donald Trump an J.D. Vance as President and Vice President of the United States

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In response to the election of Donald Trump and J.D. Vance as President and Vice President of the United States, Elizabeth Sweet, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy (MIRA) Coalition, issued the following statement: “This election cycle has left immigrants who call America home, as well as hopeful immigrants in need of … Continued

Statement October 28, 2024 – Madison Square Garden

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Misinformation and hateful propaganda have no place in our democracy. Comments such as those made at Madison Square Garden last night are not only completely inaccurate, but also dangerous, creating a culture of fear amongst our immigrant communities forcing many to wonder if it is safe for them to go to work or even send … Continued