Brooklyn, NY – On January 12, 2010, a 7.0 earthquake hit my parent's native country of Haiti, claiming hundreds of thousands of lives, and displacing millions.¹Â Haiti still needs our help. 2.5 million are still in need of aid, battling the subsequent cholera epidemic and the multitude of natural disasters since.

In the midst of the struggle to rebuild, the President and his Administration have decided to end Temporary Protection Status (TPS) for Haitian immigrants. The decision comes after a slew of bigoted comments made by President Trump, disrespecting Haiti and its people. I am deeply offended by these words and actions. The White House's decision adds insult to injury with the mounting catastrophes and distress back on the island. I will continue to speak out against the rescission of TPS for Haitians and for the preservation of basic human rights for Haitians and all Americans.

The people of Haiti and the diaspora are a strong and resilient having historically contributed so much to America and the greater world around them. Haitians freed themselves via the Haitian Revolution in 1804, paving the way for other nations to gain their independence. Haitians also aided in the American Revolution, supplying soldiers for combat.²Â And now, in the same triumphant vein, the Little Haiti Brooklyn Cultural and Business District is still thriving and is a shining example of all the good that Haiti does for our community.

With that said, I think it’s time that we acknowledge, respect and give back to such a nation and its people.

Let’s take a moment of silence for Haiti and the people of Haiti.

Sources:

1) Huffington Post - 7 Years After Haiti’s Earthquake, Millions Still Need Aid

2) OZY - How Haitians Helped Win the American Revolution