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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

Statement: June 28th Announcement – TPS for Haiti

News

“The deeply troubling conditions the people of Haiti are currently experiencing, from intense political violence, to minimal access to healthcare and fresh water, makes the Department of Homeland Security’s extension and redesignation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti the only ethical solution,” said Elizabeth Sweet, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy (MIRA) … Continued

“Never Say Never” – A Refugee Story by Ruth Koha James

Blog

My name is Ruth Koha James, and I am the Membership Coordinator at MIRA Coalition. I have been working at MIRA Coalition for exactly 4 months and 1 day. Before joining as an employee, I volunteered with MIRA’s Citizenship Clinics, where I assisted applicants in filling out their N-400 applications for naturalization. During my interview … Continued

Statement: Biden’s Executive Order Restricting Asylum (6/3/24)

News

“Closing the border and preventing those fleeing violence and persecution from legally applying for asylum is an incredibly unjust, inhumane and undemocratic immigration policy,” said Elizabeth Sweet, Executive Director of the MIRA Coalition. “We urge President Biden to reconsider signing any executive order that will shut down the border or restrict asylum seekers. In fact, leaders in … Continued

Senate’s Community College Push Would Open Doors for Immigrant Professionals

Blog

The Senate continued its strong commitment to broad educational access in the FY25 budget it passed last Friday, investing $117 million to support attendance at community colleges for Massachusetts students, including $75.5 million for a proposed free community college program and $10 million for books and supplies for low to moderate income students, as well … Continued

Give Liberty a Hand: A Night of Celebration and Impact

Blog

MIRA’s 28th Annual Fundraiser Join us for an unforgettable evening at MIRA’s 28th annual “Give Liberty a Hand” fundraiser on Thursday, June 13th, at the elegant Seaport Hotel. This special night will bring together the community leaders, coalition members, policy makers, business leaders, and allies who work tirelessly to support and advocate for immigrants in … Continued