HYATTSVILLE, Md. — Fifty Maryland elected officials recently wrote a letter to the Department of Homeland Security to express support for Haitian migrants facing deportation. But they didn't just stop there. Several leaders joined together and held a news conference Wednesday to continue to spread awareness about the widespread issue.
WUSA 9 learned that hundreds of Haitians are facing deportation proceedings across the state of Maryland after a woman named Meritha shared her story of fighting to stay in Montgomery County -- the place she's called home since June. She visited the White House Friday to speak out, and shared her story exclusively with WUSA9.
Meritha faced deportation proceedings Wednesday, but no decision was made. She said she moved to Montgomery County for her and her family’s safety.
Montgomery County Councilmember Kristin Mink, who went with Meritha to the White House, said it's believed there are several hundred migrants in Prince George’s County as well and they all entered the country after November 2022. Mink said she believes they are all at risk of deportation, because they lack TPS coverage based on reports from local organizations and churches.
“Immigration is an issue where federal policy is having a direct impact on our local economies,” Mink said. “This whole conversation really highlights the importance of nuances of getting our immigration policy right."
Mink hosted a news conference Wednesday with other state officials, including Maryland Rep. David Trone who called for federal intervention.
"Immigration far and away is the number one in our congressional office," Trone (D-MD) said. "One in three cases are about immigration, so for many of in our country. Immigration is a new beginning, a road to new opportunity for immigrants and their families."
Mink said ICE needs to stop their deportations.
Trone said they’re trying to find ways to help create stability for people like Meritha. There is no word yet on when her next proceeding will be. Overall, Meritha’s attorney said based on another proceeding that was dismissed Wednesday, they are hopeful and think with elected officials speaking out on this issue it could help their case.
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