In the heart of Springfield, Ohio, a network of churches and community organisations is rallying to support the local Haitian population as they navigate a tumultuous period marked by uncertainty over their legal status. A recent federal court ruling temporarily halted the Trump administration’s attempt to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for approximately 350,000 Haitians, providing a glimmer of hope amidst escalating fears of deportation and community division.
Churches as Pillars of Support
The congregation at Central Christian Church welcomed the news with open arms during a recent Sunday service, exchanging hugs and gratitude for the unexpected judicial reprieve. Pastor Carl Ruby addressed the congregation, emphasising that during challenging times, divine presence often manifests in unexpected ways. “Through all these calamities, fear, anxiety, panic and uncertainty, God is going to do something,” echoed Viles Dorsainvil, executive director of the Haitian Community Help and Support Center, who has been an active voice for the community since relocating to Springfield in 2021.
The Haitian community in Springfield has faced significant challenges since the onset of Donald Trump’s presidential campaign in 2024, marked by inflammatory rhetoric that portrayed Haitians in a negative light. However, the local churches have become a sanctuary, providing critical services in Haitian Creole and standing firm against the tide of misinformation and prejudice.
A Coordinated Response to Fear
In the wake of Trump’s controversial statements and subsequent policies, Springfield’s churches have banded together, creating an intricate support network that offers essential services ranging from legal assistance to emotional support. Dorsainvil established the Haitian Community Help and Support Center in 2023, which has since become a hub for advocacy, civil rights training, and English language classes. This centre has opened its doors to hundreds, helping them navigate their new lives in the United States.
Yet, the landscape of support is shifting. With the threat of federal immigration enforcement looming, many organisations, including the Help and Support Center, are adapting their strategies. The centre has transitioned to remote services to protect its members while still providing vital support. “It’s about reducing anxiety and making sure someone isn’t alone,” noted Michelle Boomgaard, an Episcopal reverend in Springfield.
As the community braces for potential ICE operations, church leaders have felt the need to speak out more vocally. An open letter signed by 154 Episcopal bishops urged Americans to uphold moral principles and support vulnerable populations, highlighting a collective commitment to justice and compassion.
Resilience Amidst Uncertainty
Community organisers like Margery Koveleski, a Haitian-American who has lived in Springfield since 2001, have become indispensable lifelines for families facing uncertainty. Koveleski dedicates her days to responding to queries from community members regarding immigration processes, work permits, and medical needs. The emotional toll on families is palpable, as children express fear about the potential separation from their parents due to immigration enforcement.
“In the face of fear, we are all different parts of one body,” Koveleski said, illustrating the collaborative spirit that defines Springfield’s response to adversity. Volunteers are actively preparing for worst-case scenarios by developing emergency plans, including childcare hubs and food deliveries for families hesitant to leave their homes.
Why it Matters
The situation in Springfield underscores a broader national discourse on immigration, community solidarity, and the role of faith in times of crisis. As legal battles over TPS continue, the resilience demonstrated by Springfield’s churches and their congregants serves as a powerful reminder of the capacity for communities to unite in the face of adversity. Their efforts not only provide immediate relief but also foster a sense of belonging and safety for those navigating an uncertain future. In a climate where divisive rhetoric threatens to undermine social cohesion, Springfield stands as a testament to the strength found in collective action and compassion.
