Speech #1020136809

This measure would end the return of the Haitians at Guantanamo into the hands of the military government. It would not end repress.on In that country. but it would stay the return of those Haitians who have already given 3vidence of their opposition to the coup by fleeing. The bill would provide 2.000 refugee slots for Haitians. allowing the United States Embassy to allow that many Haitians to leave in an orderly and safe manner. This will allow many Haitians to reach the safe haven of our country within the framework of our existing immigration and refugee policy. Admitting these Individuals who qualify under refugee criteria would complement the process of legal immigration by those who have qualified under the normal family unification provisions of our Immigration lawa process that has allowed more than 140.000 Haitians to immigrate to the United States in the last 10 years. This reflects the basic humanity and generosity of our Immigration policy. These measures Mr. Speaker. are a reasonable response to the crisis of the refugees while the administration. working with the OAS. continues its efforts to restore the democratic president of Haiti. An agreement involving President Aristide. a National Assembly vote free of military coercion. a new Prime Minister. an amnesty. and an OAS civil peace force is a step forward toward resolution of the crisis. Hopefully. when President Aristide Is restored in office. the provisions of this bill will be rendered moot. I know. however. that this bill does not satIsfy all the appeals that we in Congress have received. On one hand. the provisions to grant temporary protected status to all the Haitians who have left or will leave their country were deleted during consideration In subcommittee. I understand that many dismiss the fears of a "magnet effect" as thinly disguised prejudice. It would be impossible. they say. for many Haitians to attempt a voyage to the United States.