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Faith leaders in Springfield advocate for humane treatment of Haitians as the administration ends temporary protected status

The administration announced the end of temporary protected status for 330,000 Haitians who fled violence in their home country. Following this decision, more than 40 Haitians in Springfield have been detained by ICE. Faith leaders in the city are calling for a more just approach to immigration enforcement. Carl Ruby, pastor of Springfield’s Central Christian Church, requested the release of two pastors currently in ICE custody and the end of daily raids. Ruby also advocated for the elimination of use of ankle monitors, describing the shackles as an insult to the Haitian and black communities. Viles Dorsainvil, executive director of the Haitian Support Center, stated that the Haitian people are not animals and deserve to be treated with dignity. He noted that many Haitians are now required to report to ICE offices and wear ankle monitors, which he described as symbolizing slavery. While some residents expressed that the influx of Haitians put a strain on the community, others expressed a desire to avoid the violence seen in other cities during immigration crackdowns.

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