To the editor:

The 2020 Census in Florida published a melting pot of immigrants in Lee County.  Cubans, South Americans, Mexicans, Dominicans and Haitians reside in Lee County. There are 6,540 Haitians who live in Lee County. 

Soon the Haitians will be the next target for changes in their immigration status by the government. The Department of Homeland Security has determined that Haiti’s condition no longer meets requirements of TPS as the country’s homeland and living conditions have improved. 

 The temporary protection status was given because the country was facing temporary but unsafe conditions that prevented their citizens a safe return. It was specifically established to protect individuals from countries experiencing  armed conflicts, environmental  disasters or extraordinary or temporary conditions that make living unsafe .

This summer the changes will happen on Aug. 3 and  the designation of the current status expires, then termination will take place on Sept. 2. (Driving privileges will end, too.)

According to the leader of the Haitian community coalition SWFL president, Beatrice Jacquet-Castor says that the year has been hard on  Haitian people and the Haitian community and the Haitians encountered multiple attacks from many fronts.  

You may call their office at 239-202-9855 or 239-878-5898. The office is currently reviewing cases every day to try and help. Call the office for more information.

How is this going to affect Lee county? Many Haitians are healthcare workers, construction workers or entrepreneurs.

Kathleen Callard, RNBS

North Fort Myers