Here’s what some Haitian Times’ readers think about immigration, TPS and remittances

As part of our coverage of the 2025 NYC mayoral race, The Haitian Times asked readers to weigh in on issues shaping Haitian communities — from asylum policy and Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to language access and wealth-building.

This “pulse” survey of 44 respondents offers a snapshot of what matters most to our readership as election season ramps up, alongside the federal government’s mass deportation efforts.

Grant asylum automatically 

Survey takers agreed that automatic asylum should be granted to those fleeing political instability and natural disasters, if that were to be proposed. However, they disagreed that Haitians should be given priority over other groups applying for asylum. 

Far fewer respondents supported restrictive alternatives. For example, there was low agreement with the idea that asylum should be limited only to those with family ties in the U.S. Even fewer supported ending TPS immediately —a policy stance that has gained traction among some national candidates.

Turn TPS into path to citizenship

Respondents overwhelmingly advocated for long-term, permanent solutions to TPS. Nearly all agreed that law-abiding Haitian immigrants with TPS should be granted green cards and that TPS should offer a pathway to citizenship.

Building wealth here and supporting Haiti is doable 

Readers expressed nuanced views on remittances and financial incentives. Most supported the idea that New York City and the state should offer financial tools like small business grants and homeownership support to help Haitian New Yorkers build wealth locally.

At the same time, there was strong pushback against government interference in how Haitian New Yorkers spend their earnings, including the longstanding tradition of sending money to family back home in Haiti. Together, these responses highlight a community that sees no contradiction between local economic empowerment and transnational support.

More help needed for Creole-only speakers

Language access also emerged as a key priority. Most respondents supported expanding access to Creole materials in public services such as schools, hospitals and legal aid — rather than focusing solely on programs for newcomers to learn English.

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