Congresswoman Laura Gillen and Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages sharply criticized the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision allowing the Trump administration to move forward with terminating Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian recipients, warning the ruling could have severe consequences for immigrant families and communities across Long Island.
Gillen said the Supreme Court's decision “puts our friends and neighbors’ lives at risk,” arguing it could force Haitians to face the horrific violence and chaos in Haiti.
In her statement, Gillen said she has “stood shoulder to shoulder” with the Haitian community on Long Island throughout efforts to oppose the termination of TPS. She added that she has “fought this termination in the courts” and pledged continued action in Congress to extend protections. Gillen also emphasized the community’s role locally, calling Haitian TPS recipients “a fundamental part of our vibrant identity on Long Island,” and said removing them would not only be a humanitarian issue but also have economic consequences.
Solages also condemned the ruling, calling it “a devastating betrayal of America’s values” and arguing it disregards the purpose of TPS, which is to protect people fleeing crises. She cited conditions in Haiti, including “unprecedented levels of gang violence, political turmoil, economic collapse, and insecurity,” and said returning individuals under those circumstances would be dangerous and irresponsible.
Solages, who noted her Haitian American heritage and immigrant background, said Haitian families are deeply woven into communities throughout New York, working as “nurses, educators, small business owners, essential workers, and neighbors.” She said many have built long-term lives in the United States, raised children, and contributed significantly to local economies and civic life.
She added that the decision sends what she called a “chilling message” by prioritizing politics over people and undermining the humanitarian intent of TPS. Solages called on Congress to take immediate action to provide permanent protections for TPS holders, saying, “We cannot claim to stand for freedom, democracy, and human dignity while forcing families back into dangerous and unstable conditions. The Haitian community deserves better, and we will continue to raise our voices until justice prevails.”
