Herlain, a registered nurse from Haiti, lives in fear in North Lauderdale, Florida. Recently, she lost her temporary protected status (TPS). NPR refrained from using her last name due to her immigration situation. Like many Haitians, Herlain now fears deportation. She rarely leaves her home and has instructed her family on how to record possible encounters with immigration officials.
“You would think I was on the run,” Herlain shared with NPR. She even denied water to a salesman on a hot day out of fear. Herlain’s experience echoes that of around 350,000 Haitians who lost their TPS in July. This status allowed them to legally reside and work in the U.S., protected from Haiti’s violence and instability. The Trump Administration’s decision to revoke TPS has put many in peril of deportation.
A Homeland Security spokesperson emphasized, “Temporary Protected Status is exactly that – temporary.” The agency stated that TPS should not act as an amnesty program, underscoring its intended temporary nature.
In Miami, Father Reginald Jean-Mary, of Notre Dame d’Haiti Catholic Church, criticized the government’s actions. He termed it “psychological warfare,” noting that deporting 350,000 people is impractical. The situation in Haiti has deteriorated, with dangerous gang violence widespread. The UN reported recent massacres, including in a church.
The South Florida Haitian community is deeply affected, especially after the tragic case of 20-year-old Pierre Damas Bel in Ohio. His apparent suicide followed the loss of TPS and the imposition of an ankle monitor. Father Reggie noted a significant drop in church attendance and shared that many parishioners have been detained.
Residents of Little Haiti in Miami face growing fear. Stores remain closed, and the once vibrant community is subdued. Jan Mapou, owner of a Creole bookstore, said people live in hiding, gripped by fear. Despite the anxiety, Farah Larreux, a former broadcaster, continues to speak out against U.S. policies targeting Haitian immigrants. Larreux sees a return to Haiti as perilous and criticizes the U.S. State Department for cautioning citizens against traveling to Haiti due to safety concerns while deporting Haitians.
Farah Larreux, advocates for stronger protection aspects within the TPS framework. She seeks a legal pathway for immigrants like her who wish to remain in the U.S. Despite the challenges, faith provides hope. Father Reggie encourages unity among his parishioners during these difficult times, expressing belief in eventual divine justice.
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