Speech #1020121770

Mr. President. over the past 2 weeks the Nation has witnessed one of the most shameful episodes in our immigration history. Hundreds of Haitians are fleeing the brutal military dictatorship that overthrew the democratically elected Aristide government and has since been ruling the country through fear and oppression. Yet. not only has the administration turned a cold shoulder to the Haitian boat people. but it also began to return them to Haiti until the courts intervened. I believe we are obliged to open our doors. in cooperation with other governments in the region. to those seeking haven from the oppression and violence. Both our traditions and international law dictate that we must do all that we can to protect the Haitian refugees. And we must redouble our efforts to restore democracy and stability to that beleaguered country. There Is ample authority under current law for the administration to provide asylum and safe haven to the Haitian boat people. The administration should be exercising its authority now. in cooperation with our allies in the hemisphere. the Organization of American States. and the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees. However. as the administration has steadfastly refused to act under current law to admit Haitians. I am pleased to join with Senator DECONCINI today in introducing legislation to require the Attornej General to use his existing authority to grant "temporary protected status"-or temporary safe havento Haitians in the United States. I believe this step is minimally necessary to respond to the tragedy of the Haitian boat people. Last week.