Title: Biden Administration Reverses Course, Reduces Protection for 521,000 Haitians from Deportation
The Biden administration has made a significant shift in its immigration policy, announcing that it will no longer be granting Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to approximately 521,000 Haitians, initially granted in 2011 following the devastating earthquake that struck the country. This move has sparked widespread criticism from advocates and lawmakers, who argue that the decision will lead to the deportation of many Haitian nationals who have built new lives in the United States.
In 2011, the Obama administration extended TPS to Haiti, which allows individuals from countries affected by natural disasters, war, or other extraordinary circumstances to temporarily remain in the United States without fear of deportation. The designation was initially granted for 18 months, but was repeatedly extended, most recently until November 2022.
However, on November 15, 2021, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that it would terminate the TPS designation for Haiti, citing the country’s "significant progress" in recovering from the 2010 earthquake and the ongoing efforts towards stability and development. The decision marks a stark contrast to the previous administration’s stance, which had acknowledged the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Haiti and the need for continued protection.
"This decision is a step backward for the Biden administration," said Fatmata Corneh, advocacy coordinator at the Haitian bridge, a non-profit organization supporting Haitian immigrants. "Many of these individuals have built new lives in the United States, and are contributing to their communities in significant ways. Revoking TPS will not only lead to family separation but also cause immense damage to the economies and communities where these individuals reside."
Immigration advocates have been quick to criticize the decision, arguing that it neglects the ongoing challenges facing Haiti, including political instability, gang violence, and the ongoing impact of the 2010 earthquake. "Haiti is still recovering from the devastating effects of the earthquake, and the country faces numerous challenges, including political instability and the absence of a stable government," said Representative Ilhan Omar (D-MN), co-chair of the House Progressive Caucus. "This decision will only exacerbate the humanitarian crisis and cause unnecessary harm to individuals and families who have given so much to our country."
In addition to the humanitarian concerns, the decision has sparked concerns about the potential economic impact on the United States. Many of the 521,000 Haitian nationals with TPS have become integral parts of American society, working in various industries, including healthcare, education, and technology. Revoking their status could lead to significant labor shortages and economic losses.
As the administration moves forward with the termination of TPS, many are left wondering if this decision will be a one-time reversal or a precursor to further changes in US immigration policy. One thing is clear, however: the reduction of protection for 521,000 Haitians from deportation will have far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, and communities on both sides of the border.
Sources:
- Department of Homeland Security. (2021, November 15). Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti. Retrieved from https://www.dhs.gov/news/2021/11/15/temporary-protected-status-tps-haiti
- The White House. (2021, November 15). FACT SHEET: Protecting the American People and the Economy by Ending Abuses of our Immigration System. Retrieved from https://www.whitehouse.gov/press-shop/2021/11/15/fact-sheet/
- Haitian Bridge. (2021, November 16). Statement on the Biden Administration’s Decision to End TPS for Haiti. Retrieved from https://haitianbridge.org/2021/11/16/statement-on-the-biden-administrations-decision-to-end-tps-for-haiti/
