WASHINGTON—On November 20,
the Department of Homeland Security announced termination of Temporary
Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti. TPS is a temporary, renewable, and
statutorily-authorized humanitarian migration program that permits individuals
to remain and work lawfully in the U.S. during a period in which it is deemed
unsafe for nationals of that country to return home. There are an estimated
50,000 Haitian TPS recipients living in the U.S.

Bishop Joe S. Vásquez of Austin, Texas, Chairman of the USCCB
Committee on Migration (USCCB/COM), issued the following statement in response:

“Yesterday’s decision to terminate TPS for Haiti is deeply
troubling. As discussed in our recent delegation
trip report, Haiti is not yet in a position where it can safely accept return
of the estimated 50,000 Haitian nationals who have received TPS. This decision
will devastate many families with TPS members, including those with U.S.
citizen children. It will tear individuals from their loved ones, homes,
careers, and communities. It will also have direct negative consequences for
many in Haiti who rely on remittances for vital support.

Our nation has a responsibility to provide continued temporary
protection until TPS holders’ return and reintegration can be safely
accomplished. Catholic Social Teaching recognizes a duty to not turn our backs
on our neighbors in need. Scripture states: ‘If someone who has worldly means
sees a brother in need and refuses him compassion, how can the love of God
remain in him?’ (1 John 3:17). Our Haitian
neighbors, at home and abroad, need our compassion while their country rebuilds
and recovers. Yesterday’s decision ignores such needs.

The Administration has provided an 18-month period during which
TPS recipients from Haiti can legally stay in the United States and prepare for
their departure. While this time is appreciated, it will not remedy the
protection concerns and family separation that Haitian TPS recipients will
face.

Congress needs to find a legislative solution for long-term TPS
recipients and enact legislation that keeps these families together.

Our prayers and continued support are with the Haitian people
who have deep ties to our communities, parishes, and country. They are
businesses owners, successful professionals, home owners, and parents of U.S.
citizen children and most importantly, they are children of God.”

—
Keywords: U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, USCCB, Bishop Joe S.
Vásquez, Committee on Migration, Temporary Protected Status (TPS), Department
of Homeland Security, Haiti, migration, families, children, Catholic
social teaching.

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Media Contact:
Judy Keane
202-541-3200

Source:: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops