Give Hongkongers a Permanent Future: Support the Hong Konger Promise of Refuge Act

I am writing to share my story—a story that echoes the experiences and concerns of thousands of Hongkongers living in the United States under Deferred Enforced Departure (DED). Like many others, I seek safety, freedom, and the opportunity to build a future without fear of persecution. Yet our future remains uncertain as the February 5, 2027, expiration of the current DED period approaches. I urge you to join me in supporting two crucial bills, S. 5606 and H.R. 10685, introduced by Senator Jeff Merkley and Representative James P. McGovern. Known as the Hongkonger Promise of Refuge Act, these bills would offer a pathway to lawful permanent resident status for eligible Hongkongers who received DED and meet the legislation’s requirements.

The situation in Hong Kong continues to raise serious concerns about human rights and fundamental freedoms. Reports from Human Rights Watch and other news organizations have documented the suppression of political dissent and the erosion of civil liberties. The risks are not limited to prominent activists or those who participated in frontline protests. Ordinary citizens and people who quietly support democracy may also face consequences for their peaceful expression or civic activities. Even expressing criticism of government policies online can carry risks in certain circumstances. These realities help explain why many Hongkongers fear returning to a place they once called home.

DED has provided important temporary protection from removal for eligible Hongkongers in the United States. However, DED does not itself grant lawful permanent resident status or guarantee a pathway to a green card. With the current protection scheduled to expire on February 5, 2027, many of us face an uncertain future. Temporary protection cannot provide the long-term security needed to plan our lives, support our families, and continue contributing to our communities. We need a lasting solution.

The Hongkonger Promise of Refuge Act offers an opportunity to address this uncertainty. Introduced in both chambers of Congress as S. 5606, sponsored by Senator Jeff Merkley, and H.R. 10685, sponsored by Representative James P. McGovern, the legislation would allow certain Hong Kong residents who received DED to apply for lawful permanent resident status, provided they meet the specified eligibility requirements. This would not mean automatic permanent residency for every DED recipient. Rather, it would establish a pathway for those who qualify under the legislation.

For me and many others, this legislation represents more than an immigration policy. It represents the opportunity to live with dignity, security, and hope. Hongkongers who have sought safety in the United States deserve the chance to build stable lives and continue contributing their skills, experience, and dedication to their communities.

Given America's longstanding commitment to human rights and democracy, I urge the United States to respond to this crisis with compassion and action. Supporting this legislation would offer eligible Hongkongers a more secure future while reaffirming the importance of freedom, democratic values, and the protection of people facing persecution.

But this change cannot happen without public support. Our elected representatives need to hear from their constituents. By signing this petition, you can help demonstrate that people care about the future of Hongkongers who have sought safety in the United States. Your support can help bring attention to this issue and encourage Congress to advance these bills.

I also invite you to visit https://www.call4hk.us/. This website makes it easy to find your U.S. Senators and Representative and prepare a message urging them to support S. 5606 and H.R. 10685. Simply find your legislators, copy the template letter, and submit it through their official contact pages. Action for Hongkongers does not send letters on your behalf, so please take that final step to make your voice heard.

Time is pressing, and every voice matters. Please sign and share this petition, and take a moment to contact your Senators and Representative through our website. Together, we can urge Congress to provide eligible Hongkongers with a meaningful pathway to permanent residency and the opportunity to build their future in safety and dignity.