The Trump administration’s decision to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for thousands of Haitian nationals legally living in the United States has sparked strong backlash from several Massachusetts Democrats, including Senator Elizabeth Warren and Governor Maura Healey.
In a statement released Friday, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), led by Kristi Noem, announced that conditions in Haiti no longer justify the continuation of TPS. According to the DHS, the decision aims to “restore integrity to our immigration system” and reflects an improvement in the environmental situation in the country.
The agency is encouraging affected Haitian nationals to “take advantage of the resources” available to organize their return through the CBP Home app, while noting that those eligible may “apply for another legal status.”
But for Senator Elizabeth Warren, this announcement poses a serious threat.
In a message posted on the social network X and relayed by Mediaite, she denounced the policy as one that will “send thousands of innocent people into imminent danger. The Trump administration just decided to send thousands of innocent people, who have been living and working here legally, into imminent danger in Haiti,” she wrote.
She accused the president of “tearing families apart, breaking up communities” and worsening labor shortages, especially in businesses and healthcare facilities. “And no one will be safer,” she added.
Governor Maura Healey also expressed her dismay.
In an official statement released Saturday, she emphasized that “the Haitian community in Massachusetts is vibrant, resilient, and valued.” She noted that many fled the devastating 2010 earthquake, followed by floods, famine, and violence, and are now fully integrated into society. “They are our neighbors, our entrepreneurs, our teachers, our early childhood educators, and our healthcare professionals,” she said.
Healey strongly condemned Donald Trump’s decision to strip them of their legal status: “Today, President Trump is taking that protection away. They are working hard, paying taxes, running businesses, and raising their children here. This is a devastating decision—for them and for our economy.”
She concluded by assuring that her administration will do everything possible to support this community during this difficult time. “My heart is with the Haitian community of Massachusetts. We will do everything we can to support you.”
As Haiti continues to face a dire humanitarian crisis, marked by widespread insecurity and crumbling infrastructure, this measure threatens to upend the lives of thousands of Haitian families who have lived in the United States for years.
