Summary: A call for the American government to phase out the TPS and the humanitarian programs and in the meantime, allow their beneficiaries to join the military and be eligible to apply for federal positions.
Increasing entitlements for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders and enhancing humanitarian programs will empower their beneficiaries to achieve the American dream. The Biden administration is responsible for improving the lives of Haitians living in the United States under these programs. Anything less will be a dereliction of duties.
The Biden Administration should allow Haitians who have left Haiti with at least a high school diploma to join the military. Joining the military would provide a pathway for these individuals to obtain legal residency while gaining valuable skills they would be able to use after their first contract, should they decide not to renew or make the military their career. Such an entitlement would integrate Haitians into American society and give them an opportunity to build a better future for themselves and their families.
Additionally, the Biden Administration should consider phasing out extending TPS every 18 months. Instead, the administration should create a pathway for TPS holders who have worked or obtained certification to be eligible to apply for a green card. This would provide stability for Haitians and allow them to plan for the future without the constant threat of deportation hanging over their heads.
The Biden Administration must continue to recognize Haitian immigrants’ contributions to American society and provide them with the support they need to thrive. Increasing entitlements for TPS holders and the humanitarian program will show the administration’s commitment to upholding humanitarian values and supporting vulnerable communities.
In conclusion, I suggest that Haitian leaders send a policy to the administration outlining the need for the American government to address the dire plight of Haitian immigrants in the US and provide them with the necessary support to build a better future for themselves and their families. That policy should include how a comprehensive reform of these entitlements would create new pathways for legal residency and, thus, positively impact the lives of Haitian immigrants and uphold America’s values of compassion and justice.
Bobb Rousseau
Law and Public Policy