From Slate Magazine · Alexander Sammon · · 2m
Trump’s Real Goal in America Is Clear in One Town
Haitian immigrants in Ohio face deportation after Trump ends TPS protection.
In brief
Haitian immigrants in Ohio face deportation after Trump ends TPS protection. Trump’s administration revoked temporary protected status for 300,000 Haitians in the U.S., leading to mass deportations and violence in Springfield, Ohio. Originally reported by Slate Magazine.
Haitian Support Center in Springfield
The center’s windows were papered over, blinds drawn, and the door locked with a camera running.
Fewer Haitians in Springfield
Fewer people entered or left the center than ever before, with many disappearing.
Haitian immigrants at center
About a dozen Haitian immigrants sat quietly in the center, some watching TikToks or scanning QR codes.
Work permits revoked
On July 27, the Department of Homeland Security revoked temporary protected status for 300,000 Haitians, canceling work permits.
James Fleurijean’s role
James Fleurijean, the center’s office assistant and interpreter, paced the office fielding questions.
No work permits
Haitian immigrants lost work permits and driver’s licenses, needing money for rent, food, and transportation.
ICE monitoring
ICE began monitoring people with ankle monitors and wrist devices for tracking.
Pierre Damas Bel’s story
A 20-year-old named Pierre Damas Bel had an ankle monitor and died by tractor trailer on Aug. 31.
Bel’s death
Pierre Damas Bel died after flinging himself in front of a tractor trailer on Interstate 70 on Aug. 31.
ICE raids in Springfield
ICE arrested 380 people in Springfield in raids beginning mid-August.
Haitian detentions up
Haitian detentions in four Ohio jails shot up more than 140 percent in five weeks.
Auto shop changes
An auto repair shop blocked entry with a truck to avoid ICE agents.
Haitian bar closed
Keket’s Lantern Bar, which opened July 25, closed after ICE arrived on Monday.
Haitian community in decline
Haitian life in Springfield is disappearing due to deportations and gang violence.
Gang violence in Haiti
Gangs in Haiti killed at least 47 people in one massacre in late August.
Haitian immigrants face deportation
Haitian immigrants face deportation after Trump ends TPS protection.
The short version
Trump’s administration revoked temporary protected status for 300,000 Haitians in the U.S., leading to mass deportations and violence in Springfield, Ohio.
