Haitian Student Dies Following Immigration Status Change

Why it matters locally: Louisiana is home to a significant Haitian population, and changes to immigration policies, particularly those affecting temporary protected status, can directly impact families and communities across the state.

Pierre Damas Bel, a 20-year-old student from Haiti, died by suicide in October, according to his family. His death occurred one month after immigration authorities placed an ankle monitor on him. Bel's legal immigration status ended in July. This change followed a Supreme Court decision that allowed the Trump administration to terminate temporary protections for hundreds of thousands of Haitians. Family members held funeral services for Bel over the weekend.