Brooklyn Rally Demands TPS Reinstatement for Haitians, Mayor Adams, and Trump Face Criticism

BROOKLYN, NY—On March 14, an influential gathering in Brooklyn’s Little Haiti brought together activists, local officials, and Haitian community supporters calling on the federal government to reinstate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian immigrants through 2026. The rally outside St. Jerome Roman Catholic Church also served as a platform for sharp criticism of Mayor Eric Adams and former President Donald Trump’s immigration policies.

Advocates Denounce TPS Rollback

The event featured a passionate plea from Harry D’Janite, widely known as DJ ‘Hard Hittin’ Harry, who emceed the gathering. He highlighted the unjust impact of the TPS removal on law-abiding Haitian immigrants. “Many Haitian TPS holders came to the U.S. legally, follow the rules, pay taxes,” he declared. “Haiti’s government is in turmoil. Sending people back now is not only cruel but reckless.”

New York City Council Members Farah Louis (District 45) and Mercedes Narcisse (District 46), both of Haitian heritage, strongly opposed the TPS rollback. Narcisse labeled the move a “grave mistake,” while Louis did not mince words in her condemnation of Trump’s policy decisions. “This is an uphill battle against a man who believes he can do whatever he wants with the stroke of a pen,” said Louis. “There is no leadership in the White House.”

Mayor Adams Called Out for Lack of Support

New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams took the opportunity to challenge Mayor Eric Adams—not for his past meetings with Trump on immigration, but for his conspicuous absence at the rally.

“The mayor should be our number one advocate,” Williams emphasized. His remarks prompted frustrated murmurs from the crowd, with some attendees branding Adams a “sellout.”

Among those disappointed by the mayor’s absence was Wye Knight, an immigrant from Barbados who voiced his solidarity with the Haitian community.

“Not showing up is an insult,” Knight stated. “We work hard, contribute, and deserve to be here. The message to Washington should be clear—leave Haitians alone.”

Mayor’s Office Defends His Record

Following the criticism, a spokesperson for the mayor defended Adams’ record on immigration. “I’m not sure what the Public Advocate is talking about,” the spokesperson said. “Mayor Adams has consistently pushed for TPS extensions and work permits for migrants. His advocacy has led to direct federal action.”

The spokesperson also pointed out that Adams and Williams had previously stood side by side at a pro-immigration rally, reinforcing the mayor’s commitment to migrant rights.

Frustration Over Political Rhetoric

Despite the rally’s strong turnout and spirited speeches, some attendees expressed frustration over what they saw as empty political posturing.

Brooklyn activist and artist Kenny Altidor, who is challenging Narcisse in the 46th District, criticized the lack of tangible action.

“This is all political theater,” Altidor remarked. “Where are the real solutions? We need educational programs, legal aid, and skill-building centers. That’s how you truly support immigrants—not just with speeches.”

Wilsmitson Mathurin Angelo, another rally participant, stressed the broader significance of TPS.

“Everyone in this country is an immigrant at some point,” Angelo stated. “Taking away TPS is a step backward.”

The rally drew several prominent officials, including New York State Senator Zellnor Myrie, a mayoral candidate, City Councilmember Rita Joseph (District 40), and Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso. Council Member Chi Ossé was absent despite his name being featured on promotional materials for the event.

Ongoing Fight for Haitian Immigrants

As the rally concluded, attendees remained steadfast in their demand for the Biden administration to reinstate TPS for Haitian immigrants. With ongoing instability in Haiti, many stressed that deporting individuals to an unsafe homeland was not only unjust but inhumane.