Ruling on TPS for Haitian and Syrian migrants sparks concern among Spring Valley residents
Spring Valley residents react to the 6-3 decision that could lead to deportations for thousands. Spring Valley is home to a large Haitian community.
The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that the federal government can end Temporary Protected Status for hundreds of thousands of Haitians and thousands of Syrians who fled instability and violence in their home countries.
The 6-3 decision allows the Trump administration to move forward with ending the program, raising fears of potential deportations among TPS holders and applicants.
In Spring Valley, home to one of the largest Haitian communities in the United States, the ruling sparked concern.
Kendy, a Haitian migrant who came to the U.S. a few years ago through a Biden-era program, recently applied for TPS in hopes of remaining in the country legally.
"I did apply for TPS because that was a way for me to stay in this country so I can continue to work to help myself and my family," he said through a translator. He added that he does not want to return to the violence he fled, saying, "Going to continue to pray. Hopefully something good will come his way."
Another man, who News 12 spoke with off camera and had applied for TPS, became emotional when speaking about the ruling, explaining that the last time he was in Haiti, he was kidnapped.
Renold Julien, who leads Konbit Neg Lakay, a Haitian Community Center in Spring Valley, expressed frustration with the decision and with elected officials.
"I am extremely, extremely upset. Where are the politicians who claim they are friends of the Haitian American community?" he said.
Julien also criticized the ruling.
"What Trump is doing has nothing to do with immigration. It is a black and white issue," he says.
Both Republican Rep. Mike Lawler and Democratic Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer they support legislation to extend TPS protections for Haiti.
NY-17 Democrat Congressional candidate Cait Conley spoke against the ruling.
In a statement to News 12, Conley wrote, "Congress must act immediately to protect Haitian TPS status."
