U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor Supports Haitian Neighbors

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) released the following statement after voting in favor of legislation that would extend Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians following the actions of the Trump Department of Homeland Security to send hundreds of thousands of Haitians back to the dangerous country:

"Haitian families and neighbors legally living and working in the U.S. should not have the rug ripped out from under them by Trump and his Department of Homeland Security. Haitian neighbors are part of the fabric of our community and deserve respect after more than a decade of natural disasters and political instability. Armed militants and gangs control large parts of Haiti, and access to food and health care remains severely limited. The U.S. State Department's Level 4 'Do Not Travel' advisory makes clear just how dangerous conditions are," said Rep. Castor.

Castor continued, "In Florida and across the country, Haitian TPS holders are valued members of our communities-working hard, paying taxes, raising families, and contributing to the economy. Arbitrarily condemning hundreds of thousands of people who legally live and work in America would worsen a humanitarian crisis abroad and disrupt families, workplaces and local economies here at home. That's why I voted to advance this legislation and stand with Tampa Bay's Haitian families who deserve safety, security, and the opportunity to continue contributing to our community."

"This vote to move TPS forward brings peace of mind to families and business owners across Tampa Bay who have built their lives here while supporting loved ones back home," said Esther Wofia, Greater Haitian American Chamber. "Haitian community members are working hard, raising families, and contributing every day, and we are grateful to Rep. Castor for helping ensure their voices are heard, and this critical issue receives a vote in Congress."

TPS is granted to individuals who cannot return home due to extraordinary conditions, and Haiti continues to face severe instability. More than 350,000 Haitians currently rely on TPS in the United States, with nearly one-third living in Florida. Roughly 20 percent of Haitians in the U.S. work in health care and other essential industries, contributing significantly to local economies, including in Tampa Bay.

Castor supported a discharge petition that forced the legislation to the House Floor for a vote, thereby overcoming opposition from the Trump Administration and Republicans in Congress.