Orlando, FL — The Greater Haitian American Chamber of Commerce (GHACC) expresses deep concern over President Donald J. Trump’s recent Proclamation titled “Restricting the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats.” This directive imposes significant limitations on the entry of Haitian Nationals into the United States, citing deficiencies in screening and vetting processes.
While national security is paramount, the blanket suspension of Haitian Nationals’ entry overlooks the substantial economic and social contributions of the Haitian-American community, particularly in Florida. Haitian-Americans are integral to various sectors, including healthcare, construction, and entrepreneurship. In Florida alone, Immigrants contribute billions to the economy annually, paid over $207 billion in State and Local Taxes, and over $13 billion in total business income from Immigrant Entrepreneurs.
(Source: American Immigration Council Feb. 2025)
The Haitian-American community has a significant presence in Florida. Many are business owners, employees, and consumers who drive economic growth and cultural enrichment. Policies that hinder their ability to travel, work, or reunite with family members threaten not only individual livelihoods but also the broader economic stability of the region.
Impact on Asylum Seekers
This Proclamation also raises concerns regarding its alignment with the United States’ legal obligations to asylum seekers. Under U.S. law, individuals have the right to seek asylum if they face persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. However,
recent policy shifts have made it increasingly difficult for Haitian Nationals to access asylum protections, despite ongoing terroristic violence from gangs that is exacerbating the humanitarian crises in Haiti.
The termination of the CHNV (Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, Venezuela) Parole Program, which previously allowed vetted migrants from Haiti and other countries to live and work in the U.S. temporarily,
has left many in legal limbo.
Actions like these not only undermine the United States’ pledges and commitments to humanitarian principles but this also disrupts the lives of individuals who have overcome insurmountable circumstances to navigate these challenges.
Call to Action
GHACC urges the Federal Government to reconsider the blanket restrictions imposed on Haitian Nationals and to adopt a more nuanced approach that balances national security concerns with humanitarian obligations and economic realities. We advocate for policies that recognize the valuable contributions of Haitian-Americans and uphold the United States’ longstanding tradition of providing refuge to those in need.
More Resources and Advocate Organizations
- ABIC (American Business Immigration Coalition)
- American Immigration Council
- FLIC (Florida Immigration Coalition)
About GHACC
The Greater Haitian American Chamber of Commerce (GHACC) is dedicated to promoting the economic development and empowerment of Haitian-American businesses and professionals in Florida and beyond. Through advocacy, networking, and educational initiatives, GHACC strives to foster a thriving business community that contributes to the overall prosperity of the region.