Donald Trump, JD Vance, and certain Republican leaders have once again turned their sights on a vulnerable community—Haitian immigrants. From inflammatory rhetoric to harmful policy proposals, their attacks on this resilient population are not just reckless; they are an affront to America’s core values. The recent wave of vitriol directed toward Haitians, many of whom hold Temporary Protected Status (TPS), has not only jeopardized lives but also tarnished the United States’ proud history of welcoming immigrants. In particular, it is important to acknowledge how Haitian immigrants have contributed to communities like Springfield, Ohio, helping to breathe new life into once-struggling areas.
The baseless targeting of Haitian immigrants is part of a broader political strategy employed by Trump and others in his camp. They are running on a platform fueled by fear, division, and chaos. Their rhetoric aims to create an enemy, a “threat” to the American way of life. In this case, the scapegoat is a group of hardworking individuals who have fled unimaginable hardship to build better lives in the United States.
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It is critical to recognize that Haitian immigrants, like all immigrants, have played an essential role in revitalizing communities across America. Springfield, Ohio, provides a shining example of the positive impact Haitian immigrants have had. For years, Springfield faced economic challenges, including population decline and a struggling labor force. Haitian immigrants arrived with hope and determination, working hard in various industries, from healthcare to agriculture. These new residents helped to stabilize the workforce, contribute to local businesses, and foster a sense of community and cultural exchange. Thanks to their efforts, Springfield and other cities across America are experiencing a resurgence of growth, community engagement, and diversity. Haitians in Springfield are more than immigrants—they are neighbors, co-workers, friends, and contributors to a thriving local economy.
Despite these undeniable contributions, Trump and his allies have relentlessly demonized Haitian immigrants. This is nothing new. Donald Trump has a long track record of using incendiary language to divide and scare voters. During his presidency, he notoriously referred to Haiti and other nations as “s-hole countries,” exposing his deep-seated disdain for people from non-white, non-European backgrounds. Now, as he seeks to re-enter the White House, Trump is once again relying on these dog whistles to rally his base. By attacking Haitian immigrants, Trump is not only ignoring their positive contributions but also endangering their lives. Many of these individuals are here under TPS because they fled natural disasters, political unrest, or violence in Haiti. Ending their protected status or subjecting them to heightened scrutiny would send them back into harm’s way.
Moreover, Trump’s attacks on Haitians are emblematic of a broader assault on America’s immigrant heritage. This nation was built on the contributions of immigrants from all corners of the world. From the Irish and Italians who came in the 19th century to the Haitians and other communities who have arrived more recently, immigrants have always been integral to the American story. The United States is a land of opportunity, a place where the tired, poor, and huddled masses have come seeking a better life. It is this tradition that has made America a beacon of hope for generations.
The fear-mongering strategy being employed is not only immoral but also deeply irresponsible. By framing Haitian immigrants as a danger, Trump is stoking racial tensions and inciting xenophobia. This is a deliberate attempt to divide Americans along racial and ethnic lines, a tactic that has become all too familiar in the Trump era. Haitians and other immigrant groups have faced rising incidents of hate crimes and discrimination, fueled in large part by the toxic political climate created by Trump’s rhetoric. The former president is effectively putting a target on the backs of Haitian immigrants, making them more susceptible to violence and discrimination.
Yet, despite these challenges, Haitian immigrants continue to persevere. Their contributions to American society are undeniable, and their resilience is inspiring. Haitian immigrants have overcome immense adversity—whether from natural disasters like the 2010 earthquake, political instability, or economic hardship—and have come to the United States with hope and determination. They have contributed to our economy, enriched our culture, and strengthened our communities. We owe it to them, and to our country’s legacy as a land of opportunity, to stand up against the hate.
So, what can we do? First, we must continue to support the Haitian community in every way possible. This means offering protection to those under TPS, advocating for immigration reform that provides a path to citizenship, and standing up against anti-immigrant rhetoric wherever it rears its ugly head. Second, we must reject the politics of fear and division. Trump’s vision of America is one of chaos, conflict, and exclusion. We must organize, vote, and ensure that those who share this divisive ideology are not given the power to lead our country again.
Together, we can defeat the politics of fear and restore calm and peace to the United States.
As Americans, it is our duty to stand with those who seek a better life, just as our ancestors did. We must continue to be a nation that offers refuge, that values hard work and determination, and that celebrates the diversity that makes us strong. The Haitian community, along with immigrants from all over the world, embody the spirit of resilience, hope, and perseverance. And it is this spirit that will ultimately guide us toward a brighter, more inclusive future.
In the end, America is not defined by fear or hatred. It is defined by its people—the millions of immigrants, descendants of immigrants, and those who still believe in the American dream. We must protect that dream for future generations, and that begins with standing up for Haitian immigrants, rejecting the politics of division, and ensuring that our country remains a place of refuge, opportunity, and hope for all.
