Activists and TPS holders call for extension of Haitian TPS

Florida Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz convenes press conference at Fort Lauderdale airport

Jan. 28, 2026 at 11:39am

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Florida Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz convened a press conference at Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport on Wednesday to call for an extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians. Faith leaders, activists, and Haitian TPS holders gathered to amplify the call, and organizers announced a silent march alongside airport workers urging the Trump administration to extend the immigration protection, which is set to expire on Feb. 3.

Why it matters

The potential expiration of TPS for Haitians has raised concerns about the impact on families and communities in South Florida, where many Haitian TPS holders work in the hospitality industry at the Fort Lauderdale airport. Activists are pushing for a permanent solution and an extension of TPS to avoid the 'devastating' consequences of ending the program.

The details

In addition to the press conference, organizers announced a silent march alongside airport workers, urging the Trump administration to extend the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians, which is set to expire on Feb. 3. Kenson, a hospitality worker at the Fort Lauderdale airport, said he came to Miami years ago from Haiti because it was no longer safe to live there, and ending TPS will be 'devastating to so many families.' Activists explained that the demonstration follows an announcement by Rep. Ayanna Pressley, who said she has filed a discharge petition that could force a House vote on legislation related to TPS.

  • The press conference was held on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.
  • Haitian TPS is set to expire on February 3, 2026.

The players

Debbie Wasserman Schultz

A Florida Congresswoman who convened the press conference to call for an extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians.

Kenson

A hospitality worker at Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport who came to Miami from Haiti years ago because it was no longer safe to live there.

Ayanna Pressley

A U.S. Representative who filed a discharge petition that could force a House vote on legislation related to TPS.

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What they’re saying

“I came to Miami years ago from Haiti with my wife and two kids because it was no longer safe to live there. The same situation exists today.”

— Kenson, hospitality worker at FLL

“Ending TPS will be devastating to so many families. We work extremely hard to welcome travelers arriving in South Florida. We will not stand by and watch our coworkers, friends, and neighbors be treated like animals. We are here to call for a permanent solution and an extension of TPS.”

— Organizers

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.