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Cathy Wurzer

For Liberians in Minnesota, an uncertain year ahead

Flags of the U.S. and Liberia fly at the rally on the steps of the capitol.
U.S. and Liberian flags fly at a rally to call for the extension of a program that gives thousands of Liberians legal status in the U.S. at the Capitol in St. Paul on Monday.
Courtney Perry for MPR News

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One more year.

That's how much longer the federal government will give immigration protections to Liberians in the United States, under a program known as "Deferred Enforced Departure," or DED.

Immigration protections for Liberians were first put in place nearly 30 years ago, allowing people fleeing civil war to live and work in the U.S. Many moved to Minnesota.

But now, President Trump says conditions in Liberia have improved enough that the DED program is no longer necessary. Some Minnesota lawmakers say they'll use the year to push for more permanent protections.

MPR News host Cathy Wurzer spoke with Abdullah Kiatamba about the announcement, and what comes next for Liberians in Minnesota. Kiatamba is the executive director of African Immigrant Services, and a Liberian immigrant.

Click on the audio player above to hear their conversation.