SPRINGFIELD, Ohio — At the First Haitian Evangelical Church of Springfield, Pastor Reginald Silencieux led a Sunday prayer surrounded by congregants, musicians, and ushers. Flanked by the flags of Haiti and the U.S., he asked for divine protection for his community, many of whom are worried about federal immigration raids.
The Haitian community in Springfield, estimated at 15,000 people, is feeling uncertain as fears grow over President Donald Trump’s strict immigration policies. Some residents stayed home from church out of fear, while others sought spiritual comfort. Many worry about the potential end of the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program, which allows them to live and work legally in the U.S.
Community leaders, like Viles Dorsainvil from the Haitian Community Help and Support Center, said panic is widespread. “People see arrests on TV and are afraid,” he explained. He emphasized that most immigrants are hardworking individuals, deserving of respect and understanding.
False claims by Trump in the past, accusing Haitians of eating pets, have only deepened fears and divided the community. These statements sparked threats against local schools, government buildings, and officials, heightening tension in this predominantly white, blue-collar city.
Haitian spiritual leader Jacob Payen, owner of Milokan Botanica, shared that fear of deportation is now overshadowing other worries, like hate crimes. His shop, which sells Haitian spiritual products, has become a refuge for community members seeking guidance on immigration paperwork and TPS applications.
One resident, Brutus Joseph, shared his struggles. “I can’t sleep at night because I’m so worried,” he said, speaking through an interpreter. Joseph fears for his children’s future, stating that returning to Haiti would expose them to violence.
Another Springfield resident, Romane Pierre, said, “Haiti is too dangerous to return to.” He came to the U.S. under TPS after fleeing violence in Port-au-Prince. Tragically, Pierre’s 8-year-old daughter died due to limited access to healthcare in Haiti.
The Haitian community’s fears extend beyond Springfield, with faith leaders nationwide exploring ways to support migrants. TPS for Haitians in the U.S. is set to expire in February 2026, leaving many hoping for its renewal.
Haiti’s interim president, Leslie Voltaire, has warned that halting aid and deporting migrants could have devastating effects on an already unstable country. He pleaded for international understanding, emphasizing that Haiti is not safe for returning migrants.
Many Haitians, like Pastor Silencieux, continue to turn to prayer for hope and guidance.
