Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity reported across Flatbush has prompted neighborhood organizers and politicians to expand outreach and connect affected families with legal resources following the end of Temporary Protected Status for Haitians, according to Hoodline.
Reported ICE sightings occurred between Sept. 28 and Oct. 1 near Cortelyou Road and East 35th Street, PIX11 reported. On Oct. 2, Little Caribbean organizers reported additional sightings near Lenox Road, Linden Boulevard and Bedford Avenue.
Council Member Rita Joseph’s office confirmed with PIX11 that one person was taken into ICE custody and helped connect the person’s family with legal support.
"Working in coordination with my office, Hands Off NYC canvassed the neighborhood and slid Know Your Rights pamphlets under every door they could reach, so our neighbors know what to do if agents approach them," Joseph said in a statement.
The reports have a heightened concern in Little Caribbean, a cultural district that includes portions of Flatbush, East Flatbush and Prospect Lefferts Gardens and is known for its Caribbean businesses, restaurants and community institutions. Flatbush is home to one of the largest populations of Haitians in the U.S.
“Flatbush is a community of immigrants. These families are woven into every block, every school and every small business on Flatbush Avenue,” Joseph said. “Enforcement actions like these spread fear through the whole neighborhood. They make people afraid to go to work, take their kids to school, or seek help when they need it. That does not make anyone safer.”
TPS was terminated for Haitians on July 27, 2026, after U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services determined Haiti no longer "met the conditions" for protected status.
Community groups have responded with door-to-door outreach and the distribution of know-your-rights materials. Hands Off NYC canvassed parts of Flatbush after the reported sightings, while Little Caribbean organizers alerted residents about additional activity.
For now, the full scope of the ICE activity remains unclear. ICE has not publicly confirmed how many people were detained in the reported operations. Community organizations are expected to continue sharing legal resources and updates as residents seek information about their rights and available assistance.
