Guest Commentary | Coalition condemns anti-Haitian rhetoric, calls for compassion amid TPS uncertainty
The Haitian-American Community Coalition of Southwest Florida expresses deep concern regarding the recent termination of Temporary Protected Status protections affecting thousands of Haitians and the inflammatory remarks made by media personality Megyn Kelly toward the Haitian community.
As of July 1, many Haitian TPS beneficiaries face tremendous uncertainty regarding their legal status, employment authorization, and their families’ futures. This development comes despite Haiti’s ongoing humanitarian crisis, marked by widespread gang violence, political instability, economic collapse, and severe limitations on access to essential services.
At a time when Haitian families are experiencing fear and uncertainty, public comments telling Haitians to “go back to Haiti” are deeply troubling. Such rhetoric is dismissive of the dangerous realities facing Haiti today and undermines the dignity of hardworking individuals who have contributed significantly to communities throughout the United States. Haitian immigrants are our neighbors, healthcare workers, business owners, educators, faith leaders, and taxpayers. Words that stereotype or dehumanize an entire community only foster division. Our nation is strongest when we lead with respect, compassion, and truth. HACCSWFL stands firmly against discrimination, xenophobia, and rhetoric that targets individuals based on their nationality or immigration status. We also recognize the emotional toll these events have placed on Haitian families throughout Southwest Florida and across the nation.
The Coalition encourages anyone affected by TPS changes not to panic or make immediate decisions without first consulting a qualified immigration attorney or a DOJ-accredited representative. Every immigration case is unique, and reliable legal guidance is critical during this period of uncertainty.
HACCSWFL remains committed to:
• Providing accurate immigration information and community education.
• Connecting families with trusted legal resources.
• Advocating for fair and humane immigration policies.
• Supporting Haitian families through outreach, education, and community partnerships.
We call upon elected officials, community leaders, faith organizations, and our fellow Americans to reject hateful rhetoric and work together toward solutions that uphold the dignity, humanity, and contributions of immigrant communities.
The Haitian people have demonstrated extraordinary resilience throughout history. We will continue to stand together, support one another, and advocate peacefully for justice and opportunity for all.
Beatrice Jacquet-Castor is the president of the Haitian-American Community Coalition of Southwest Florida, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering the Haitian-American community through advocacy, education, immigration resources, civic engagement, and community service.