Amidst the turmoil of Haiti, a woman known only as E. bears a visible scar on her face, a haunting reminder of the machete attack that claimed her parents’ lives. She fears for her safety if forced to return, believing her father’s support for the Duvalier regime may have made them targets. However, proving political persecution in asylum cases is challenging, as many Haitian asylum-seekers find themselves entangled in a complex web of gang violence and political influence.
Asylum seekers like E. face an uphill battle in demonstrating persecution based on political opinion, a primary ground for asylum approval. Last year, only 4% of Haitian national asylum cases were granted, highlighting the arduousness of the process. The lines between gang violence and political persecution often blur in Haiti, making it difficult to establish a clear connection to protected grounds.
For E., Haiti’s current state is far from the sanctuary she seeks. Instead, she resides in an old motel, awaiting the outcome of her asylum case. She emphasizes her willingness to work once her newborn son’s health improves, determined to build a life despite the uncertainties ahead. Her path to Boston was a treacherous one, spanning multiple countries and perilous journeys.
Another asylum applicant, L., was a human rights advocate in Haiti. He faced threats and violence for his work, leading him to flee to the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Brazil, and ultimately through the Darien Gap to the United States. He believes the government is complicit in gang violence, making it impossible for him to seek protection in his home country.
Carl Pierre, an asylum success story, waited over 11 years before being granted asylum. He attributes his success to the efforts of his immigration attorney. He fled Haiti after being targeted by gang members allied with the government due to his activism for workers’ rights. Now residing in Malden, he works for a biotech company and is grateful for the opportunity to build a future in the United States.
Haitian asylum-seekers encounter a labyrinth of challenges in proving political persecution amidst gang violence. Despite the dangers they flee, many face years of uncertainty while awaiting the outcome of their cases. The complexities of gang influence and political instability add further complexities to their already arduous journeys.
