The revocation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian immigrants by the Trump administration has sparked concerns across Midwestern cities, particularly in Ohio. Springfield, home to approximately 15,000 Haitians, has seen its vibrant community threatened by policy changes. A representative from a local company that employs Haitian workers reported that the leadership has ceased media interactions following threats amidst the anti-immigrant controversy.
The city's economy has flourished with a 40% growth last year, supported by its diverse workforce. Meanwhile, Springfield's mayor, Rob Rue, highlighted the essential economic contributions of Haitian immigrants, stating:
"They have strengthened our local economy by filling key roles in manufacturing and healthcare, even as their rapid arrival has strained public services and housing."
— Rob Rue, Springfield's mayor
Lima, Ohio, another city significantly impacted by the Haitian community, faces a similar scenario. The city, which experienced a downturn since the 1970s, recently saw a modest economic revival. The property tax revenue increased from under $800 million in 2018 to $1 billion in 2023, largely attributed to the influx of tax-paying Haitian residents.
A 2024 real estate report identified Lima as one of the hottest property markets for young people, further underscoring the positive influence of immigrant communities. Carla Thompson, a city council representative, expressed her concerns regarding potential workforce disruptions:
"I'm worried for our workforces if there should be a mass exodus [of Haitian immigrants] because some of our plants and factories need them."
— Carla Thompson, city council representative
The Findlay area, located 30 miles northeast of Lima and home to about 1,000 Haitians, also relies heavily on immigrant labor. An automotive company in Findlay reportedly depends on immigrants for half its workforce. Mayor of Findlay noted a decrease in crime rates in areas where Haitians have settled.
However, the Department for Homeland Security argues that the TPS program for Haitians:
"has been exploited and abused"
— Department for Homeland Security
This sentiment has fueled debates about immigration policy and border protection. Mayor Rue shared his stance on immigration reform:
"I firmly believe in protecting our borders and reforming our immigration policies. Hasty changes and swift deportation will cause hardworking immigrants to be lost, negatively impacting our economy."
— Rob Rue, Springfield's mayor
Despite fears of losing valuable community members and economic contributors, some Haitians are considering applying for asylum. Amos Mercelin, a Haitian immigrant, expressed his dilemma:
"Some Haitians are talking about applying for asylum to help them stay here, but I can’t. I have a daughter in Haiti and if I apply for asylum, it means I can’t go back there for something like seven years. That’s something I just cannot do."
— Amos Mercelin
The expansion of Procter & Gamble's chemical plant east of Springfield, adding over 100 new jobs through a $500 million investment, exemplifies the area's economic potential. However, the possibility of losing a significant portion of the workforce due to TPS changes poses a threat to such growth.
Carla Thompson also observed positive trends in housing due to immigrant tenants:
"I know the landlords have been loving it because I haven’t heard any complaints about [Haitians] not paying rent."
— Carla Thompson, city council representative
Yet, underlying issues of racism and discrimination persist. Unattributed voices within the community highlighted these challenges:
"Racism has been an issue. Some people are probably excited that TPS is being stopped."
Despite these hurdles, Haitian immigrants have played an integral role in revitalizing Midwestern cities, contributing to a significant turnaround in economic and social conditions.