Additional Coverage:
Haitian Immigrants Fear for Safety in Ohio
Haitian migrants in Springfield, Ohio, are living in fear, afraid to leave their homes due to threats of bombings and shootings. The city has closed schools and buildings for days as a precaution.
The fear stems from false and divisive statements made by politicians, including former President Trump, who claimed that migrants are resorting to eating pets. Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance has also raised concerns about Haitian migrants draining social services.
Haitian immigrants say they have faced discrimination and harassment. One Haitian man, who spoke anonymously, said he was yelled at in the street. He believes the Haitian community is being terrorized.
Ohio’s Republican governor, Mike DeWine, has dismissed the rumors about migrants eating pets as nonsense and has called for an end to the discussion.
Around 12,000 to 15,000 Haitian migrants have arrived in Springfield in recent years, seeking safety and job opportunities. They came under the Temporary Protected Status designation, which allows them to stay in the U.S. due to conditions in their home country.