False pet-eating claims spark turmoil for Haitian immigrants in Ohio
False claims disrupt lives of Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio
Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, typically spend their Sunday mornings worshipping in Creole with joy and reverence. However, recent false accusations of them eating pets have left the community in turmoil. Former President Donald Trump and JD Vance, among others, have fueled these rumours, leading to violent threats that have disrupted everyday life.
The Rev. Carl Ruby of Central Christian Church reassured his congregation, stating, “Haitians are not eating pets and geese in Springfield.” He called for prayers and peaceful protests against these baseless claims, urging politicians and media figures to retract the rumours to restore peace in the city.
Viles Dorsainvil, from the Haitian Community Help and Support Center, joined the worship at Central Christian. He found solace in his faith, saying, “We worship in good times and bad. Being in God’s presence is therapeutic.” He urged Trump and Vance to reconsider their stance, suggesting, “If they have the heart of God, they will think and speak differently.”
The executive director of a Haitian group in Springfield, Ohio, said Thursday that eating pets is not a part of his culture.https://t.co/W5w3VfDAqN
— KOMO News (@komonews) September 13, 2024
These rumours, amplified on social media and during a televised debate between Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, have heightened fears of division in the predominantly white, working-class city of 59,000 residents, including over 15,000 Haitians. Many Haitians have arrived in Springfield under the U.S.’s Temporary Protected Status program due to instability in Haiti.
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine criticised the rumours as “internet garbage” and highlighted the contributions of the Haitian community. Despite this, Vance repeated the conspiracy on CBS’s “Face the Nation,” criticising Harris’s border policy.
At the church, Ruby encouraged his congregation to distribute cards in Creole and English, expressing support for Haitians: “I’m glad you are here. Christ loves you and so do I.” He urged parishioners to empathise with Haitian parents, particularly those sending children to school amid the turmoil.
Mia Perez, an immigration lawyer, shared that her 9-year-old daughter faced taunts at school due to the rumours. “I wasn’t prepared for this conversation,” she said, feeling her culture was disrespected.
Rose-Thamar Joseph, who works at the Haitian Community Center, prayed for peace and protection for everyone in Springfield, hoping for a return to normalcy.
Support for religion coverage is provided through collaboration with The Conversation US and funding from Lilly Endowment Inc.
What Other Media Are Saying
- AP News article highlights the emotional turmoil and misconceptions faced by Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, emphasizing community solidarity and calls for truth amidst unfounded pet-eating rumors.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What false rumors are affecting the Haitian community in Springfield, Ohio?
They are falsely accused of eating their neighbor’s cats and dogs.
Who is spreading the rumors about the Haitian community in Springfield?
Former President Donald Trump, his running mate JD Vance, and others.
What actions are local leaders taking to support the Haitian community?
They are organizing prayers, peaceful protests, and distributing supportive cards.
How has Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine responded to the rumors?
He called the rumors ‘internet garbage’ and praised the Haitian community as hardworking.
What impact have the rumors had on Haitian children in schools?
Children are facing distressing questions and bomb threats, causing fear and confusion.
