Key West, Fla. — The recent termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians by the U.S. government has led to significant disruptions in Key West’s immigrant community and local economy, particularly affecting Haitian workers who have long contributed to the city’s tourism-driven labor market.

TPS was granted to Haitians following the 2010 earthquake to provide temporary relief from deportation and allow legal employment. However, the Trump administration ended the program on July 27, prompting increased immigration enforcement in the Florida Keys region. The resulting enforcement actions have caused anxiety among Haitian immigrants and other immigrant groups, as many have faced detention or fear engaging in daily activities. Reports indicate that immigration arrests in the Lower Keys have risen substantially in recent months, with at least 65 detentions in August, nearly half involving Haitians.

Key West’s geography—a small island connected to the mainland by a single highway—makes it difficult for immigrants to avoid law enforcement, according to community advocates. The city has an estimated 5,000 Haitian residents out of a total population of roughly 25,000. Many hold jobs in tourism-related sectors such as hospitality, restaurants, and transportation. With the loss of TPS, both those whose work permits have expired and those fearing detention have withdrawn from jobs or public life, causing labor shortages.

Local business owners expressed concern about the impact on operations. Some have lost workers with valid documentation due to increased apprehensions or detentions. One restaurant owner reported having to reduce days of operation and take on cooking duties personally after several kitchen employees left the area to avoid immigration enforcement. Another businessman acknowledged the need for deportation focused on individuals with criminal records but cautioned that indiscriminate enforcement could harm the local economy.

Key West’s political climate adds complexity to the issue. The city differs from much of the Florida Keys in its lean toward Democratic leadership, including a mayor who has voiced worries about labor shortages and rising employment costs as a result of the crackdown. The local police department momentarily withdrew from cooperation with federal immigration authorities last year but reversed that decision under pressure from the state government.

Community organizations have responded by providing aid to immigrants fearful of leaving their homes, including food assistance and transportation. The Rev. Jean Eliezaire Jean, leader of the Haitian congregation at First Congregational Church of Key West, has paused in-person services amid concerns over parishioners’ safety, shifting to online gatherings until conditions improve.

The Department of Homeland Security has defended its actions, stating that TPS was intended as a temporary measure and that its expiration reflects legal and policy considerations. Yet, as tourism season approaches its busier months, the economic and social effects of the policy shift remain palpable in this island community, which relies heavily on immigrant labor but faces new challenges as enforcement intensifies.