Ohio demonstrations for Haitian migrants: ‘Defend and expand protected status!’

Hundreds of people demonstrated in Cleveland on Feb. 7 against threats to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian immigrants previously protected from deportation.

This issue impacts 15,000 Haitians living in Springfield, Ohio, and another 30,000 in Central Ohio who are threatened with deportation after President Donald Trump announced plans to end TPS for Haitians on Feb. 3.  While a federal judge ruled that this action was illegal, it is possible that a higher court will overturn the judge’s decision.

Simultaneous demonstrations were held in Akron, Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton and Toledo. They were initiated by the Party for Socialism and Liberation and supported by a number of organizations. Chants included a takeoff on “OH-IO,” a popular chant at college and professional sports events: “OH-ICE out!”