Fact Check: "300 Haitian immigrants in Waupaca face legal status crisis after program termination."
What We Know
The claim that "300 Haitian immigrants in Waupaca face legal status crisis after program termination" is grounded in recent changes to U.S. immigration policy. Specifically, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the termination of categorical parole programs for inadmissible aliens from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, effective March 25, 2025 (Federal Register). This decision affects approximately 532,000 individuals who entered the U.S. under this humanitarian parole program since October 2022, including many Haitians (AP News).
In Waupaca, Wisconsin, local reports indicate that around 300 Haitian immigrants are directly impacted by this termination, facing potential loss of legal status and the risk of deportation (WPR). The situation has prompted local advocates to encourage these immigrants to consider self-deportation as a viable option due to the uncertainty surrounding their legal status (WPR).
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim is robust, as it is based on official announcements from the DHS and corroborated by local news reports. The DHS's termination of the parole programs is a significant policy shift that directly affects a large number of immigrants, including those in Waupaca. The DHS has stated that parolees without a lawful basis to remain in the U.S. must depart before their parole termination date (Federal Register).
The reliability of the sources used in this fact-check is high. The Federal Register is the official journal of the federal government of the United States, providing a reliable account of government actions. Additionally, the Associated Press is a reputable news organization known for its accurate reporting. Local news outlets like Wisconsin Public Radio (WPR) also provide firsthand accounts and updates on the situation affecting the Haitian community in Waupaca, further validating the claim.
However, it is important to note that while the termination of the parole program is confirmed, the specific number of 300 Haitian immigrants in Waupaca facing a legal status crisis is based on local reporting and may not be officially documented in federal records. Still, the context and implications of the policy change are clear and significant.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that "300 Haitian immigrants in Waupaca face legal status crisis after program termination" is true based on the termination of the DHS parole programs affecting Haitian immigrants. The evidence from credible sources confirms that these individuals are at risk of losing their legal status and facing deportation.
