Haitian immigrants in Spokane County with ‘Temporary Protected Status’ could face deportation as soon as this month | Top Stories

On Jul 1, 2026

Spokane, WASH. — Hundreds of Haitian immigrants in Spokane County are bracing for potential deportation after a Supreme Court decision cleared the way for the Trump administration to end Temporary Protected Status for Haitian nationals across the us.

Out of an estimated 500 Haitians living in Spokane County, approximately 200 currently hold Temporary Protected Status, according to Reverend Luc Jasmin, a community representative who has worked with Spokane’s Haitian community for decades.

“Some people, talking to them, I see tears come down their eyes. Could be a grown man or a young woman, whatever, you see tears coming down when they think of going back,” Jasmin said.

Temporary Protected Status allows non-citizens to live and work in the United States when their home country is deemed unsafe, because of war, natural disasters, or other emergencies. Haiti became eligible for the program in 2010 following a deadly earthquake. Sixteen years later, the federal government has determined it is safe for Haitians to return home.

However, community leaders dispute that assessment. Jasmin emphasized that Haiti remains a violent place where deportation could have severe consequences.

“Sending somebody back there is like sending them to their death, period,” Jasmin said.

While he understands that his friends are scared, Jasmin also encourages Haitians to follow the laws. He said those who are thinking of ‘laying low’ could face deportation, lose housing, food insecurity, and access to medical care.

Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown posted a statement regarding her opposition to the Supreme Court ruling last week, stating: “Instead of offering stability and a path forward, this decision leaves families in fear and puts lives at risk.”

Haitian nationals will lose their protective status on July 27, 2026.

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