Nearly two years ago, amidst the tranquility of Ecuador's summer, my family's peaceful visist to my homeland turned into a nightmare. As political turmoil swept through the streets, our trip was abruptly halted in a small highland town, where the scarcity of gas heightened our sense of vulnerability. Suddenly, even a trip to the store felt perilous.

With a heavy heart, we made the difficult decision to cut our visit short and return to the safety of our home in Utah. Tragically, we didn't have the chance to bid farewell to my grandparents as roadblocks prevented our passage. What followed was a chilling realization that the violence and unrest plaguing Ecuador's towns were creeping into even the most tranquil corners of the country.

As weeks turned into months, the situation deteriorated further. Reports of shootings in restaurants and kidnappings soared, forcing businesses to shutter their doors. Ecuadorians, both at home and abroad, faced a reality of displacement and fear amid ongoing armed conflict and political instability.

In the face of such adversity, the proposal to grant Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to Ecuadorians emerges as a beacon of hope. This vital lifeline would afford eligible Ecuadorians, who have long called the United States their home, the opportunity to contribute to the workforce legally. In doing so, it would not only alleviate the economic strain on our state and nation but also offer a semblance of security to those who have endured uncertainty and hardship.

The implementation of TPS would offer immediate relief to thousands of individuals who have become integral members of our community fabric. By providing them with the stability to work legally, TPS would provide 700,000 Ecuadorians to continue positively impacting our economy and society.

Ecuadorians are not just our neighbors; they are educators, construction workers, healthcare professionals, and essential contributors to our nation's prosperity. The granting of TPS for Ecuador is not merely a gesture of goodwill; it is a pragmatic step towards bolstering our economic strength by harnessing the talents and skills of those who call the United States home.

In this time of unprecedented global challenges, we cannot afford to overlook the plight of immigrant families who enrich our communities in countless ways. Therefore, I ask our leaders to take decisive action in support of granting TPS for Ecuadorians. Let us stand together in solidarity, recognizing the invaluable contributions of our Ecuadorian neighbors and offering them the lifeline they so desperately need.

 Take action to keep families together and grant TPS to Ecuadorians.