1. United States
2. Ariz.
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to support H.R. 1689, which would extend Temporary Protected Status for approximately 350,000 Haitians currently living and working in the United States. These individuals entered our country legally under TPS designation and have become vital members of our communities. Haitians were first granted TPS in 2010 following a devastating earthquake that killed more than 300,000 people and displaced 1.5 million more. The protections have been extended multiple times because conditions in Haiti remain dangerous. Despite claims that the situation has improved, widespread gang violence and unrest continue to make it unsafe for these individuals to return. The 350,000 Haitians with TPS are not a burden on our communities. They pay taxes, contribute to our economy, and work in critical sectors including healthcare. At a time when we face workforce shortages in essential services, removing these workers would harm both our economy and the individuals who have built lives here legally. These families have been unfairly demonized despite following our laws and contributing to our society. They fled danger and entered through proper legal channels. Forcing them to return to Haiti while gang violence and instability persist would put their lives at risk and contradict our values as a nation that provides refuge to those fleeing dangerous conditions. A federal judge recently blocked the termination of these protections, recognizing the continued danger in Haiti. Congress should now act to provide stability and certainty by passing H.R. 1689. These individuals deserve the opportunity to remain in the United States under Temporary Protected Status until conditions genuinely improve and it is safe for them to return home. I ask that you support H.R. 1689 and stand with the Haitian community members who have earned their place in our society through their legal status, hard work, and contributions to our communities.