U.S. Rep. August Pfluger Representing the 11th District of Texas | Twitter Website
U.S. Rep. August Pfluger Representing the 11th District of Texas | Twitter Website
The Foreman family from Odessa, Texas, has finally been united with their adopted daughter after a prolonged wait due to the political instability in Haiti. Congressman Pfluger played a key role in advocating for the family's unification process.
"I am thrilled that the Forman Family has finally been united with their daughter," said Congressman Pfluger. "Their successful unification marks a major milestone in the ongoing effort to bring children home amid the crisis in Haiti. I will continue to advocate on behalf of all the other children who are still waiting to be united with their adopted families."
Haley Foreman expressed her gratitude: "After almost two years of waiting to bring our daughter home from Haiti, we cannot express how thankful we are to finally have her here with us. We are beyond grateful for the support of Congressman Pfluger and his staff in getting Thara home. We can also speak to the gratitude of the 50+ additional families from all over the United States who have benefited from Congressman Pfluger’s willingness to advocate and fight for these children to get home to their American families. These children deserve the gift of being united with their forever families, and we could not be happier that our daughter is home with us."
In March 2024, Haiti's state institutions collapsed due to gang violence and political instability, leaving many orphans in dangerous conditions. Many American families found themselves unable to reunite with these children due to worsening security situations.
Rep. Pfluger led efforts urging U.S. government departments like Homeland Security and State Department to address this urgent situation faced by Haitian orphans during adoption processes. A letter highlighted issues such as gang control over much of Port-au-Prince, putting children's safety at risk, and called for waiving medical exams and allowing virtual visa interviews.
The letter stated: "The severity of the current situation cannot be overstated... The humanitarian crisis has reached catastrophic levels." It requested immediate actions like waiving medical requirements and permitting humanitarian parole for adoptees.
Despite past exceptions made during crises, current procedures remain stringent as noted by Rep. Pfluger's advocacy efforts: "We urgently request three immediate actions from your agencies and Departments... similar adaptability is critically needed now."
The call emphasized prioritizing children's safety amidst administrative procedures as delays expose them further in Haiti's dire circumstances.
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