4 days ago
Haitian community in Springfield facing uncertain future
SPRINGFIELD, Ohio (WDTN) — There is an air of uncertainty within the Haitian population in Springfield, as several recent developments have threatened their legal status in America.
President Trump signed a proclamation Wednesday that bars individuals from 12 countries, including those from Haiti, from entering the U.S.
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This comes after the Supreme Court granted an emergency application to revote Temporary Legal Status for nearly half a million people, including Haitian immigrants.
These rulings could have a direct impact on Springfield, where nearly 15,000 Haitians settled after unrest in their home country forced them to seek new opportunities. Now, many are unsure of what the next steps will be that could force them to leave their second home in Springfield.
'I'm not sure that it's a good decision to take,' said Viles Dorsainvil, Haitian Support Center executive director.
Dorsainvil says his home country is one filled with guns and violence, and now his people may be forced to return to their homeland where nothing has changed.
'Home is home. People wouldn't be afraid to go back home. But when you know that it's like a suicidal decision that makes you feel afraid,' said Dorsainvil.
Right now, Dorsainvil says the Haitian community's future in Springfield is up in the air.
'If you're asking a Haitian now, what is your future? They shouldn't be able to tell you because they know that they are in a condition where they cannot claim their lives,' said Dorsainvil.
Dorsainvil also says Haitians have integrated themselves well into the Springfield community, especially in the local job market.
The city of Springfield echoes this sentiment.
'Haitian workers have long been reliable, hard-working contributors to our local economy, including critical industrial sectors,' said City Manager Bryan Heck in a statement. 'It is important to acknowledge the real economic and social impact that policy changes can have at the local level.'
The future of these immigrants remains uncertain, but Dorsainvil believes they are strong enough to endure another struggle in their journey.
'I want to tell them I know that they are resilient people. They have been through a lot since they were home and this is another chapter in their lives,' said Dorsainvil. 'They have to be brave and ready for anything.'
Dorsainvil also says the Springfield community has shown their support for the Haitians since day one, and they continue to do so during these uncertain times. He says he is very thankful for the continued support.
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