We are living in a time when opinions often travel faster than facts. Social media, political commentary and emotional reactions can shape public perception before the truth has a chance to catch up. Nowhere is that more evident than in the national conversation surrounding Haitian Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
It is important to remember a simple principle: everyone is entitled to an opinion, but no one is entitled to their own facts. Some believe every Haitian living under TPS should remain in the United States indefinitely. Others believe every recipient should immediately return to Haiti. Both are opinions. Neither becomes truth simply because it is passionately expressed.
Truth requires evidence. The truth is that TPS is a legal humanitarian program created by Congress to provide temporary protection when conditions in a designated country prevent safe return. The truth is that the authority to designate, extend or terminate TPS rests within federal law and is subject to legal and administrative review.
The truth is also that thousands of Haitian families have built lives in communities across Arizona and throughout our nation. They work, worship, volunteer, pay taxes, raise children and contribute to the economic and social fabric of our neighborhoods. For many, the uncertainty surrounding TPS creates genuine fear about their future.
Recognizing these realities does not require taking a political side. It requires acknowledging facts while remembering that policies affect real human beings.
Too often, discussions about immigration become dominated by assumptions instead of understanding. We hear labels instead of listening. We repeat narratives instead of asking questions. We allow opinion to replace careful examination of the facts. That serves no one.
Healthy public debate depends on informed citizens who are willing to distinguish between what they know and what they believe. Opinions have an important place in a democracy, but they should be grounded in truth, informed by evidence and expressed with respect for those who may disagree.
Compassion also has a place in this conversation. Whether someone supports extending TPS or believes it should end, we should never lose sight of the people whose lives hang in the balance. Families deserve dignity even when policy decisions are difficult. Communities deserve leaders who seek understanding instead of division.
As Americans, we can uphold the rule of law while extending compassion to our neighbors. These principles are not mutually exclusive. In fact, they are strongest when they work together.
My hope is that we move beyond slogans and sound bites. Let us replace assumptions with facts, fear with understanding and anger with thoughtful dialogue. Let us remember that disagreement does not require disrespect.
Opinion has value. Truth has authority. When we allow truth to guide our opinions rather than opinions to define our truth, we strengthen not only our public conversations but also the character of our communities.
Peaceful civic engagement ensures that decisions about TPS are guided by facts, respect for human dignity and the safety and stability of families who are part of our communities.
I join the National Haitian American Elected Officials Network in urging Congress to act swiftly in response to the recent Supreme Court ruling on TPS for Haiti. Now is the time for residents, faith communities and advocates to raise their voices by contacting our Congressional representatives to urge support for legislation that would extend TPS for Haiti through 2029.
TPS does not, by itself, provide a direct path to a green card or U.S. citizenship. However, many TPS holders may still qualify for permanent residence through other parts of U.S. immigration law if they meet the requirements.
For Haitian TPS holders, this makes it especially important to seek qualified legal advice to understand any options available before TPS protections change or end. ImmigrationLawHelp.org and ImmigrationAdvocates.org are nonprofits with directories to free and low-cost legal services for immigration help.
Councilmember Christine Ellis serves on the Chandler City Council and as Vice Chair of the National Haitian American Elected Officials Network.