On Thursday night, Syed met with members and supporters at the Minatchom Pavilion to discuss what they could do to get the attention of federal officials.
Syed said their group decided to set up a mobile tent outside the USCIS office and stay in the area until the U.S. Department of Homeland Security grant parole in place to all nonresidents in the CNMI.
“We will remain there until they consider our request,” he added.
He said they also discussed staging a work stoppage on certain days as well as demonstrations, including forming a human chain along Beach Road.
A suggestion to get a lawyer for filing a class action suit on behalf of all nonresidents was also considered.
Alam Manzurul, the group’s adviser, said they may have to raise funds before they can hire “the best immigration lawyer,” but added that this issue can be “addressed” through voluntary contributions.
Manzurul also suggested to stage a dramatic presentation about the plight of nonresident workers and their families outside the USCIS office.
The group’s vice president for external affairs, Simeon Sin, noted that some unemployed nonresidents have already decided to leave the island.
He suggested that they should have a plan for them too.
During the meeting, Syed reported about his recent travel to New York and Washington, D.C.
He said congressional staffers whom he met advised him to “make a very big noise” that could catch the attention of Washington, D.C.
“They have little knowledge about us or the CNMI,” he said.
While in the nation’s capital, he said he was given a chance to talk at the Freedom Plaza Square where he discussed the situation of nonresident workers who are legally in the CNMI.
“We are not illegal aliens,” he added.
Syed said unemployed nonresidents will face more difficulties if no parole in place is granted after Nov. 27 when the CNMI umbrella permits expire.
