WYSO’s reporting on Haiti and the Haitian diaspora highlights personal stories, cultural contributions, and the challenges facing Haitian immigrants in the United States—especially in the Midwest. Through audio documentaries, interviews, and community-focused journalism, we explore how Haitian identity is lived and expressed in places like Southwest Ohio. From immigration policy to local entrepreneurship and family life, these stories center Haitian perspectives and connect them to the broader American experience.
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Academy Award winning filmmaker Steve Bognar was on the Ohio team that filmed the experiences of Haitians in Springfield for the PBS Frontline documentary "Haiti Deportation Crisis." -
A memorial in Springfield honored Pierre Damas Bel, a Haitian student who died by suicide after losing his TPS status and being required to wear an ankle monitor. -
A beloved Springfield Haitian pastor is home after being detained in the Butler County Jail for 27 days. -
The family of Pierre Damas Bel of Springfield believe his death by suicide is connected to the DHS requirement to wear a GPS monitor. Several Haitians and activists called for the monitoring to end. -
Pierre Damas Bel, a Haitian immigrant studying at Wright State University, died on Monday. His father said in a statement, "The government treated my son like an animal." -
Pastors from across Ohio say they’re answering an urgent call to stand with Springfield’s Haitian immigrants. -
Federal agents have increased arrests of Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, following the end of TPS, including of a well-known pastor. -
The Department of Homeland Security has notified Haitians who previously had TPS status to report to their office in Blue Ash, Ohio, for a ‘check-in." -
Temporary Protected Status — and work permits and driver's licenses — for people from Haiti and Syria ended. In Springfield, churches and nonprofits continue rallying around their Haitian neighbors. -
Temporary Protected Status for Haiti has been extended by a federal appeals judge until Monday, July 27, 2026. -
Work permits for Haitians with Temporary Protected were extended to July 10. A nonprofit serving the Springfield, Ohio, area is mobilizing to help clients figure out options. -
In the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court ruling, here's what we know about your frequently asked questions.
