Uncertainty Looms for TPS Holders as Protections End
For Reverend Lander Saintelus, the looming end of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians is not a distant concern. In New Bedford, his community has been grappling with the repercussions for months, and the situation is worsening. At the Bright Morning Star International Ministries, the church he leads, the impact of TPS termination has been stark.
Following the announcement by Homeland Security to terminate Haiti’s TPS, Saintelus observed his congregation, consisting of nearly 100 members, fall into joblessness by February. By March, he was supporting families with utility bills. Members were too afraid to leave their homes due to the fear of immigration enforcement.
A pivotal moment came on June 21, when Saintelus noticed three black vehicles with “ICE” insignias parked outside his church, causing panic among congregants. “I had to keep (everyone) inside the church until they were gone,” he recounted, highlighting the palpable fear within the community.
Just days later, the U.S. Supreme Court allowed the Trump administration to proceed with ending TPS for Haitians and Syrians, placing many at risk of deportation. Estimates suggest that between 22,000 and 45,000 Haitian TPS holders reside in Massachusetts, according to recent reports and state officials.
Understanding Temporary Protected Status
Established by the Immigration Act of 1990, TPS offers work authorization and deportation protection for individuals from countries facing dire conditions, like natural disasters or conflicts. “It’s a form of immigration status that provides work authorization and protection from deportation for a specified period of time,” explained Alexander Holtzman from Hofstra University Law School.
While the status is temporary, it often feels permanent due to extensions caused by ongoing crises. However, TPS does not lead to permanent residency or citizenship.
Hondurans Face an Uncertain Future
Hondurans in New Bedford, including Redin Almendarez, are among those affected. Almendarez, who arrived in the U.S. after Hurricane Mitch in 1998, has built a life over 25 years, including a successful business and family. However, with TPS for Hondurans terminated, Almendarez faces an uncertain future. “I’m not really prepared to leave the country,” he said, questioning how he could start anew in Honduras after three decades away.
Salvadorans Worry About What Comes Next
Salvadorans were the first to receive TPS in 1991, fleeing civil war. Their status is set to expire soon, leaving many anxious. Doris Landaverde, a TPS holder and advocate, emphasized the broader impact of the Supreme Court’s decision, stating, “The impact of this case on Haiti and Syria doesn’t affect them alone.”
Community advocate Lilly Rodriguez noted that confusion around TPS policies has led to job losses, adding that the uncertainty prompts some to return to El Salvador. “I’ve seen people (return) back to El Salvador because they don’t want to live with the uncertainty,” she said.
Haitians Contemplate Their Next Move
For Haitian TPS holders, returning home is not an option due to ongoing violence and instability. “We would all love one day to go back and live there forever,” said Saintelus. “But at the moment, there is no peace there.” The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4 travel advisory for Haiti, advising against travel due to life-threatening risks.
Despite TPS still being in place, many Haitians face expired work authorizations, exacerbating financial struggles. This uncertainty places significant strain on the community, as TPS holders are integral to local economies. “They bring life to the community,” Saintelus said. “Without them, it’s going to be rough and tough for the American community.”
Looking Ahead
Efforts to extend TPS for Haitians continue, with bipartisan legislation passing the House. However, the path forward remains uncertain. “We already have 22 senators,” said Carline Desire, an advocate for Haitian TPS holders. “We need 60 senators for the bill to pass, and we know the president will veto it.”
Those affected are bracing for what comes next. Landaverde, reflecting on her experiences, said, “I’ve lived with a lot of fear in my life and it’s time to heal from that. Now is the time for action.”
