Haitian Immigrants in Springfield Hold Their Ground Amid Deportation Threats and Rumors

In Springfield, Ohio, Haitian immigrants like Michelet and his wife are facing uncertainty as they try to secure a U.S. passport for their newborn son. Though born on American soil and a citizen by birthright, their son's citizenship offers no guarantee that Michelet and his wife, who lack permanent legal status, will be able to remain in the country. 

"I'm already here. I have a job and experience here," said Michelet, a 35-year-old auto parts worker, explaining why he isn't considering relocating to another country. The family is pursuing asylum as their best option, especially after the Department of Homeland Security announced plans to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian nationals starting September 2. Although a federal judge temporarily blocked the order, the administration is expected to appeal.

TPS was initially granted following Haiti's devastating 2010 earthquake and has since been extended due to escalating violence and instability in the country. Despite that, a White House spokesperson claimed the conditions no longer justify the protection, asserting it was part of Trump's promise to restore order to the immigration system.

In Springfield, home to 10,000 to 15,000 Haitian nationals, many contribute to the local economy through warehouse and manufacturing jobs. People like Jean Marc, a warehouse worker in his 20s, are leaning heavily on faith. "I'm going to stay here. I'm not afraid," he said. Executive director Casey Rollins of the St. Vincent de Paul Society observed, "They have this ultimate faith thing," adding that many Haitians can't fathom being deported after working hard and contributing to the community.

Others face grimmer realities. M.B., in his 50s, showed scars from being tortured in Haiti, likely due to his political affiliations. He and his wife are seeking asylum but feel they have no other options. "I don't have anywhere else to go," he said. I.M., a brain cancer survivor in his 20s, laughed at the idea that Haiti is safe, citing U.S. State Department warnings. "If they tell me to go... I will go before that just not to let people put me in handcuffs," he said. Community leader Viles Dorsainvil called the situation "a Catch-22," adding, "It's so sad."

Link: NBCNews