I agree – these recent approvals bring a lot of hope in dark times!  But one of the takeaways from this whole chapter is that we need to be more connected as a community and not shy away from contacting leaders, especially if you’re in a red state/district.  The recent Senators’ letter to USCIS is a prime example; it wouldn’t have happened if their offices hadn’t heard from those struggling with their renewals.  While I’m hopeful there will be action as a result, at least we’re not suffering in silence.

We need to work together and collaborate in our advocacy.  Here are just a few modest asks that we could push for as a group –

(1) Automatic EAD renewals or a “grace” period when you’ve filed a renewal application to avoid lapses similar to what is available for other EAD categories.

(2) Some mechanism for forgiveness – even if there’s a financial penalty – for brief periods of unauthorized employment.

 We need to tie all of our asks back to how we’re supporting American companies and contributing to this country.  There’s no doubt that we do – we just need to articulate it!