New York City leaders and immigration advocates are pushing back against the Trump administration’s decision to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for over 500,000 Haitians, as Haiti faces a worsening humanitarian crisis.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) argues that TPS has been “exploited and abused,” citing an increase from 57,000 Haitian TPS holders in 2011 to 520,694 by July 2024. However, NYC officials stress that the policy shift will devastate communities, as Haitian TPS holders contribute $260 million annually to the city’s economy.
City leaders, including Haitian-American elected officials, gathered at City Hall on Thursday, condemning the rollback:
- “This is not about policy, it’s about cruelty,” said NYC Councilmember Farah Louis.
- “If you come for Haiti, you have to come for all of us,” stated Robert Agyemang of the NY Immigration Coalition.
- “People are scared. They’re not going to school. Anxiety is high,” added Councilmember Mercedes Narcisse.
In Brooklyn’s Little Haiti, fear has emptied streets and businesses. Many avoid public spaces due to rumors of ICE raids at churches, said Rev. Leslie Thomas. Meanwhile, advocacy groups are ramping up virtual “Know Your Rights” sessions to help those afraid to leave their homes.
Officials are urging Congress and local governments to intervene, provide legal support, and fund nonprofit aid for affected communities.
