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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

Thank you to the City of Boston for showing courage and compassion in supporting immigrants’ rights!

News

MAYOR’S OFFICE FOR IMMIGRANT ADVANCEMENT AWARDS $650,000 IN GRANTS TO 13 ORGANIZATIONS TO SUPPORT IMMIGRANT WORKERS AND IMMIGRATION LEGAL ACCESS BOSTON- Thursday, May 9, 2024 – Mayor Michelle Wu and the Mayor’s Office for Immigrant Advancement (MOIA) today announced that the City is awarding $650,000 in grants to 13 nonprofits to increase the capacity of immigrant-serving organizations to … Continued

Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month: Embracing Our Identities and Stories

Blog

As we enter May, we embark on a significant journey of celebration and reflection—Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. This month holds a special place in our hearts as we honor and amplify the diverse voices, cultures, and contributions of the AAPI community. For me, Tahia Mostafiz, originally from Bangladesh, this month represents … Continued

Biden Administration Expands ACA to include DACA Recipients

Blog

On Friday May 3, the Biden Administration finalized a rule to expand healthcare access to DACA recipients. The new rule, from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), includes DACA recipients in the definition of “lawfully present” under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), giving them access to Health Insurance Marketplace where they can purchase … Continued

MIRA Celebrates International Workers Day

Blog

International Workers’ Day, also known as May Day, is celebrated around the world to honor the contributions and achievements of workers and to advocate for labor rights. Yesterday MIRA staff joined member organizations La Colaborativa, Brazilian Workers’ Center, and La Comunidad at the annual May Day march for workers’ rights organized by the May 1st … Continued

Statement: Work Permit Renewal Eligibility Extension

News

The Biden administration announced earlier today that it will extend the eligibility of work permit renewals to 540 days for those awaiting approval. Please see below a statement from Elizabeth Sweet, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy (MIRA) Coalition, as well as some key facts on the announcement. “Immigrants want to work, … Continued

MIRA Coalition FY25 Budget Priorities 

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MIRA Coalition FY25 Budget Priorities Essential services for newly arrived immigrants in emergency shelter  $2.2M for Year 2 of the Immigrant Assistance Services (IAS) Program in Line Item 4003-XXXX Administered by MIRA Coalition under contract with the Office of Refugees and Immigrants , IAS funds the critical work of our 15 frontline partner organizations to … Continued

Speaker Mariano Joins Policymakers and Advocates to Celebrate 28th Annual Immigrants Day at the State House

News

Speaker Mariano Joins Policymakers and Advocates to Celebrate 28th Annual Immigrants Day at the State House Boston, MA – Today, House Speaker Ron Mariano joined fellow legislators, immigrants rights advocates and the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy (MIRA) Coalition in applauding recent expansions in immigrant and refugee rights, while highlighting the progress that remains.    “I’m … Continued

Amid Massive Influx of International Arrivals, MIRA Coalition Launches Immigration Advocate Legal Helpline

News

Amid Massive Influx of International Arrivals, MIRA Coalition Launches Immigration Advocate Legal Helpline Boston, MA – The Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy (MIRA) Coalition is launching an immigration advocate legal helpline to offer direct legal guidance to community organizations in response to the unprecedented need for services resulting from an influx of international arrivals. The helpline, … Continued

MIRA Welcomes 4 new members to our Board of Directors!

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MIRA is thrilled to welcome four exceptional new members to our Board of Directors. Each brings a wealth of expertise, extensive experience, and unique perspectives that will strengthen our work and mission to advocate for immigrant and refugee communities across the state. Their diverse insights and dedication to equity and justice will help guide MIRA’s … Continued