Miami-Dade Commissioner Marleine Bastien, together with activists, has voiced strong opposition to the Trump administration’s announcement that over 520,700 Haitians will lose their Temporary Protected Status by August 3, which heightens their risk of deportation. The decision was criticized by state and local officials, noting the dire conditions in Haiti, including violence and political instability. Representative Frederica Wilson asserted that deporting Haitians is morally wrong, which mirrors the ongoing conversations regarding TPS for Venezuelans.
Miami-Dade County Commissioner Marleine Bastien, accompanied by activists, spoke out on Friday regarding the impending changes to the legal status of Haitians residing in South Florida. The Trump administration has announced that over 520,700 Haitians in the United States will face deportation risks beginning in a little over five months.
At a news conference, Bastien expressed her distress, stating, “I am deeply disheartened and outraged,” during an event organized by the Family Action Network Movement, a nonprofit she established. The announcement comes from Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who stated that the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians will terminate on August 3.
State Senator Shervin Jones emphasized the humanity of those affected, remarking, “These are human beings…people who have contributed to this country, and to this state, and to our communities.” Secretary Noem’s decision reverses a previous extension of TPS initiated by the Biden administration, which had aimed to prolong protections until February 2026.
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava criticized the change, stating, “This decision puts thousands of our families at risk,” asserting the gravity of the situation. In light of the ongoing violence and political turmoil in Haiti, the United Nations has urged against the forced return of any individuals, including those whose asylum claims have been denied.
Since the devastating earthquake that struck Haiti in 2010, the United States has provided TPS to Haitians. However, ongoing gang violence and political instability continue to plague Haiti, with no presidential elections held since the assassination of former President Jovenel Moïse in 2021.
Representative Frederica Wilson condemned the decision, asserting, “We cannot be in the business of deporting over 500,000 Haitian people…It’s wrong.” Additionally, around 600,000 Venezuelans are expected to be adversely affected as TPS for Venezuelans is also set to expire in the coming months.
The recent decision by the Trump administration to end Temporary Protected Status for Haitians living in the U.S. has sparked outrage among community leaders and officials. With over 520,700 Haitians facing potential deportation, concerns are raised regarding the ongoing violence and instability in Haiti. The situation underscores the humanitarian impacts of immigration policies and the need for continued advocacy for vulnerable populations.
Original Source: www.local10.com
