North Miami — At a time when anti-immigrant rhetoric is intensifying under the Trump presidency, longtime Haitian-American activist Marleine Bastien remains unwavering in her advocacy. Now serving as Miami-Dade County Commissioner for District 2, Bastien refuses to let her elected position silence the powerful voice she has wielded for decades in defense of immigrant rights.
Her recent strong condemnation of the Trump administration’s decision to roll back Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians reaffirms her commitment to a cause she has championed for years.
A Lifetime of Advocacy
Before entering public office, Marleine Bastien was widely recognized as a fierce immigrant rights advocate. As the founder and executive director of Family Action Network Movement (FANM), she spent decades fighting for immigrant protections, affordable housing, women’s rights, and economic equity, particularly within the Haitian community.
For many activists, transitioning into elected office can come with political constraints—a reality that has often muted the voices of grassroots leaders who enter government. But Bastien refuses to let that happen.
Despite now holding a government position, her stance remains clear: the rollback of TPS for Haitians is inhumane, unjust, and a betrayal of American values.
Defending Haitian TPS Holders in the Face of Uncertainty
In an official press release received by Le Floridien, Bastien expressed outrage and disappointment over the Trump administration’s decision, highlighting that thousands of Haitian TPS holders have built their lives in the U.S., contributed to the economy, and raised families.
“Haitian TPS recipients are hardworking, law-abiding residents who have contributed significantly to our communities, our economy, and our cultural fabric, especially here in Miami-Dade County.”
Bastien highlighted the dire situation in Haiti, pointing out that many TPS holders would be returning to a country still reeling from natural disasters, economic hardship, and political instability.
“To send them back to a country still grappling with the aftermath of devastating earthquakes, political unrest, and economic hardship is both inhumane and unjust. It puts lives at risk and tears families apart.”
Unlike some elected officials who avoid direct confrontation with federal policies, Bastien has made it clear that she will not stand idly by. She called on federal leaders to find a permanent solution that protects Haitian TPS holders and ensures their right to remain in the U.S.
“I will continue to advocate for a permanent solution that ensures Haitian and other TPS recipients can remain safely in the United States.”
Leading by Example in Miami-Dade
Bastien’s advocacy is more than just words—it is deeply embedded in her leadership. Since taking office, she has worked on initiatives that uplift Haitian immigrants and other vulnerable communities in Miami-Dade County. From addressing housing insecurity to expanding immigrant support services, she has stayed true to the mission that defined her activism.
Her unwavering commitment sends a powerful message: holding an elected position does not mean sacrificing the fight for justice. Instead, it amplifies her ability to effect change from within the system.
In an era where anti-immigrant policies are gaining traction, leaders like Marleine Bastien are proving that advocacy does not end at the ballot box. Instead, it takes on new forms—louder, bolder, and more urgent than ever.
Dessalines Ferdinand
