Columbus, Ohio, is bracing for potential increased immigration enforcement targeting its Haitian population as more than 500,000 Haitians nationwide may lose temporary protected status (TPS) on February 3rd. Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther and U.S. Rep. Joyce Beatty are seeking ways to hold Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) accountable amid concerns over recent agency actions.
Concerns Rise After ICE Operations
The response from local leaders comes after ICE conducted “Operation Buckeye” in December, resulting in the arrest of over 280 immigrants in Ohio. Ginther stated that ICE does not communicate its activities to the city, failing to notify officials before or after the operation. Beatty and Ginther held a roundtable discussion – closed to the press – on “Unaccountable ICE Enforcement Activity,” following reports of ICE agents shooting and killing Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minnesota.
Beatty emphasized the need for ICE agents to adhere to standards expected of law enforcement, calling for de-escalation training and body cameras. She also sent a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons requesting detailed information regarding individuals in custody and a report on racial profiling complaints.
Impact on Local Communities
Approximately 30,000 Haitians reside in central Ohio, with an estimated 15,000 to 20,000 living in Springfield, representing roughly a quarter of the city’s population. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has encouraged local law enforcement and school officials to prepare for a potential surge in ICE activity. Columbus City Schools officials have met with Beatty and Ginther to discuss the potential impact of the ending of TPS, though no new policies have been announced.
Ginther stated the city will focus on educating Haitian and other “new American” communities about their rights and developing safety plans. He also expressed concern that ICE actions could undermine the trust between the community and the police, a trust that Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant has worked to build through community engagement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Temporary Protected Status?
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) allows immigrants from countries facing dangerous conditions to remain in the United States. More than 500,000 Haitians nationwide may lose this status on February 3rd.
What actions are local officials taking?
Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther and U.S. Rep. Joyce Beatty are seeking ways to hold ICE accountable and are working to educate communities about their rights. Columbus City Schools is discussing the potential impact of the TPS ending.
What did ICE do during “Operation Buckeye”?
ICE arrested more than 280 immigrants in Ohio between December 18th and 21st during “Operation Buckeye,” but did not inform the city of Columbus about the operation.
As the February 3rd deadline approaches, how will local communities balance preparing for potential enforcement actions with maintaining trust and safety for all residents?
