Haitian Migrant Crisis Continues To Grow — Here’s How To Help

The crisis continues to grow at the U.S.-Mexico border, where thousands of migrants are congregating with the hopes of entering the United States. Most of the refugees come from Haiti and have traveled across dozens of countries, mostly on foot, looking to find asylum in the U.S.

The latest influx of migrants, who are flooding the border, are traveling for a growing number of reasons, including the ongoing pandemic, Haiti’s economic crisis, another recent earthquake, and great political instability. These challenges have forced countless people to travel to the U.S. in search of better living situations — or even a chance at living. 

The United States has held a special status in place for Haitian refugees that dates back to the devastating earthquake that hit Haiti in 2010. In the years following the natural disaster, Haitians were granted temporary protected status. President Trump allowed that status to expire during his term. Then, current President Biden returned the status after another destructive earthquake hit the region and Haitian President Jovenal Moise was assassinated — both events occurring this past summer. However, that status protection is only offered to those already in the United States, which leaves out those who haven’t made it in. Ultimately, that leaves a countless number of Haitians trying to get into the country. 

One of the most affected areas along the Texas border is the town of Del Rio, where an estimated 15,000 people are awaiting entry. Pictures have flooded social media of many camped out under bridges, while others show the violence used to keep immigrants out of the country. The violent images have been triggering for many. So much so that many individuals and media outlets, including Remezcla, have chosen not to show them. 

The Mayor of Del Rio, Texas, Mayor Bruno Lozano, called the situation “dire” on his social media. He took it a step further by calling out Vice President Kamala Harris on Twitter. “The VP is able to visit the fun events across the country, while American communities continue to grapple with failed immigration reform. Where is the visit to Del Rio, TX,” he wrote.

The situation continues to become more critical as more migrants arrive daily, with many in need of food, water, and other medical supplies. This devastating reality is why it’s crucial to support the local and grassroots organizations working hard for these migrants. Below, we’ve rounded up some of these contacts and resources.