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December, 12

Cherfilus-McCormick Discusses Haiti’s Future Under Trump Administration

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In recent years, the political climate surrounding Haiti and its future has been a topic of growing concern for many. Amidst its ongoing political turmoil, economic struggles, and a deeply entrenched humanitarian crisis, Haiti’s relationship with the United States—especially under different administrations—has played a pivotal role in shaping its trajectory. One of the most significant conversations in this regard has been about the impact of former President Donald Trump’s administration on Haiti’s future.

In this article, we delve into how Cherfilus-McCormick, a prominent Haitian-American politician and member of the U.S. Congress, has voiced concerns about Haiti’s future under the Trump administration, what she believes needs to be done for the Caribbean nation, and how the former president’s policies have had long-lasting effects on Haiti.


Haiti Under Trump: A Fragile Relationship

The relationship between the United States and Haiti during Donald Trump’s presidency was characterized by tension, mixed policies, and a lack of consistent support for the Haitian people in their time of need. While Haiti, the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, has faced numerous challenges, the Trump administration’s policies only exacerbated the dire situation for many Haitians.

Cherfilus-McCormick, a member of the Democratic Party, has been one of the most vocal critics of the Trump administration’s stance on Haiti. As a Haitian-American and someone who understands the intricacies of Haitian political and social issues, Cherfilus-McCormick has been outspoken about the former president’s decisions and their long-term implications.


The Impact of Trump’s Immigration Policies on Haitians

One of the most contentious aspects of the Trump administration’s policies that directly impacted Haiti was its approach to immigration, particularly the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, Temporary Protected Status (TPS), and the handling of Haitian refugees and immigrants in the U.S.

During Trump’s tenure, the administration ended the TPS program for Haitians, which had been established in 2010 following the devastating earthquake that killed over 160,000 people and left millions homeless. The program was designed to provide temporary refuge to Haitians living in the U.S. after the natural disaster. However, Trump’s decision to terminate TPS for Haitians affected over 58,000 individuals, many of whom had been living in the U.S. for years and had established families and businesses.

Cherfilus-McCormick has spoken at length about the impact of this policy, criticizing the lack of compassion and the disregard for the humanitarian needs of Haitians. She called out the Trump administration for failing to recognize the ongoing struggles of the Haitian people, who were still recovering from the 2010 earthquake, subsequent natural disasters, and political instability. The end of TPS left thousands vulnerable to deportation to a country that was still reeling from years of crisis.


Trump’s Rhetoric and Its Impact on Haitian-American Communities

Another significant issue that Cherfilus-McCormick and other Haitian-American leaders have raised is Trump’s divisive rhetoric toward immigrant communities, including Haitians. Trump’s controversial “shithole countries” remark in 2018, when he referred to Haiti and other African nations in derogatory terms, sparked outrage and hurt feelings among Haitian-American communities and people of African descent.

For Cherfilus-McCormick, this comment was not just offensive, but emblematic of a broader disregard for the dignity and humanity of Haitians and other marginalized groups. She argued that such rhetoric fostered an atmosphere of intolerance and prejudice, undermining efforts to foster unity and understanding between the U.S. and immigrant communities.

The remark also reflected a broader pattern of xenophobic and exclusionary policies that targeted minority groups. This, according to Cherfilus-McCormick, reinforced negative stereotypes about Haitians and other immigrant communities, ultimately making it more difficult for these groups to assimilate, prosper, and thrive in the U.S.


Haiti’s Political Instability and U.S. Role

In addition to the direct impact on Haitians living in the U.S., the political instability in Haiti during the Trump administration was also a focal point for Cherfilus-McCormick. The country was already grappling with corruption, weak governance, and violence when Trump took office, but the situation worsened during his presidency.

Cherfilus-McCormick has argued that the Trump administration’s policies toward Haiti were inconsistent and often counterproductive. While the U.S. had long been a significant aid partner for Haiti, much of the aid was tied to conditions that often led to long-term dependency rather than sustainable growth.

The political instability in Haiti reached a new peak in 2021 with the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse, and the U.S. played a critical role in responding to the crisis. Cherfilus-McCormick has emphasized that the U.S. government needs to take a more active and supportive role in helping to stabilize Haiti’s political system and help Haitians build a more democratic, transparent, and resilient government. She has also advocated for greater U.S. investment in Haitian infrastructure, education, and healthcare to foster long-term stability and development.

However, during Trump’s presidency, foreign aid to Haiti was reduced, and the country was left to deal with its internal issues with minimal external assistance. Cherfilus-McCormick has highlighted this lack of support as one of the key shortcomings of the Trump administration’s approach to Haiti, arguing that the U.S. should have done more to help Haiti during a period of critical vulnerability.


What Needs to Be Done for Haiti’s Future?

Cherfilus-McCormick believes that the future of Haiti requires more than just a change in political rhetoric or policy decisions. Instead, she advocates for a comprehensive, long-term approach to addressing the root causes of Haiti’s challenges. This includes addressing the country’s economic struggles, political corruption, and infrastructure issues.

As a Haitian-American leader, Cherfilus-McCormick also emphasizes the importance of engaging Haitian diaspora communities in the rebuilding process. Haitian-Americans have historically played a significant role in providing financial remittances, advocacy, and other forms of support to Haiti. By leveraging these resources and expertise, Haiti can begin to chart a more prosperous and stable future.

Moreover, Cherfilus-McCormick has called for the U.S. to work alongside international partners to provide Haiti with the resources it needs to combat poverty, reduce political corruption, and build a stronger economy. In her view, this approach would help Haiti rise above its current challenges and create a foundation for lasting peace and prosperity.


Conclusion: Looking to the Future

The future of Haiti remains uncertain, but it is clear that a thoughtful and compassionate approach is needed to address the country’s ongoing challenges. Cherfilus-McCormick’s critique of the Trump administration’s policies highlights the need for more nuanced, consistent support for Haiti—especially as it continues to recover from years of political, social, and economic turmoil.

While the Trump era may have been marked by controversial policies, statements, and setbacks for Haiti, it also set the stage for a broader discussion on how the U.S. can play a more constructive role in supporting Haiti’s recovery and long-term development. Moving forward, it will take a unified effort, both in the U.S. and in Haiti, to bring about meaningful change and ensure a brighter future for the Haitian people.

By focusing on sustainable solutions and offering a hand of partnership, Cherfilus-McCormick and others believe that the U.S. can be a critical ally in Haiti’s journey toward a more prosperous and stable future.

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