Houston, TX – Yesterday, Congressman Al Green (TX-9) issued the following statement in response to Saturday’s devastating earthquake in Pakistan that reportedly killed more than thirty thousand people.

Green, whose district is twelve percent Asian American, met with members of the South Asian community, including, Houston City Council Member M.J. Khan, to address the needs of those impacted.

“I join the my colleagues, the American people and the people of the 9th Congressional District in expressing deep regret for those who were affected by Saturday’s earthquake.   I am deeply saddened by the images of the destruction and the countless lives that were lost. My thoughts and prayers are with those families that have lost loved ones,” said Green.

Green continued, “This year has tested the will and resolve of the American people and the world, as we’ve experienced one disaster followed by another. Through it all, we’ve witnessed the goodness of the human spirit at work and I trust that the same will be extended to the people of South Asia.”

In response to concerns raised by his constituency, Green plans to request Temporary Protective Status (TPS) under the Immigration and Nationality Act for natives of the affected region.  TPS will provide relief from deportation or forced departure for natives of the affected region who are currently in the United States.

Green also plans to call on the federal government to provide additional resources necessary to aid rebuilding efforts in the affected areas. “As a nation and global community we have exhibited an unyielding desire to aid our fellow man. I believe now is the time for us to move forward together in concert to help rebuild the lives of those devastated by this natural disaster.  In so doing, I stand in support of local and national relief efforts and encourage our nation and its citizens to make significant contributions toward South Asia’s relief efforts,” Green said.