Update July 2005: Quebec City, July 23, 2005

Mohamed has just been released by the U.S. authorities. His release was made possible when the U.S. Board of Immigration Appeals granted him political refugee status in June—a status which has yet to be granted him by the Quebec and Canadian authorities.

It was with great joy and emotion that we learned the news earlier this week. That decision (coupled with the fact that the U.S. government did not appeal from it after all) confirms once again that Mohamed’s demands could not be more legitimate and that he has been the victim of injustice all these months. We have been supporting him in these efforts for over a year and a half and have followed the difficulties that have been his lot all that time.

Once again, we want to thank all of the organizations and the thousands of people who have given Mohamed their support in the past months. We do not dare imagine what Mohamed’s circumstances would be today without the help
of each and every one of you! Thank you!

Unfortunately, though, it is not over yet, as a number of questions remain on this side of the border while the Quebec authorities continue to study Mohamed’s file. But it could not be more obvious: Mohamed Cherfi is a political refugee who should never have been deported from Canada.

We are therefore still requesting that the Quebec immigration authorities issue Mohamed a Quebec selection certificate and that Immigration Canada grant him a visa so that he can come back here immediately. This is his home. Waiting can no longer be justified!

Thank you again for your support.Together in solidarity.