It has been a rough couple of weeks for immigrant communities around the country. Baseless accusations of criminality among immigrant populations has led to unbearable harassment and actual criminality from anti-immigrant forces, with Haitian communities facing horrific vitriol and abuse. But while much of the nation’s attention has been focused on the racist attacks against our communities, we have also seen inspiring stories of love, hope, and support in Springfield, OH and around the country.
“You can’t conquer with hate,conquer with love,” was how one Springfield native responded to the absurd uproar. Others in the community demonstrated their support by patronizing local immigrant-owned businesses in the city, with a line out the door at a local Haitian restaurant. Faith leaders in Springfield have also stepped in, reminding residents of the biblical story of Good Samaritan to urge people to welcome their new neighbors. Local congregations are finding other ways to support the community, from actively combating the lies to volunteering at ESOL classes at the First Evangelical Haitian Church of Springfield.
Love and support for Springfield’s residents also came pouring in from across the country. Singer and Springfield native John Legend posted his own video emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding of one’s neighbors in his hometown. Haitian-born founding member of the Fugees, Wyclef Jean, also spoke out for love over hate:
One of our greatest assets in America is that we are a country of immigrants. I speak from the heart when I say, Haitian people living in the U.S. are good neighbors and good people. We care about humanity. We care about our neighbors. On behalf of Haitian Americans, I ask that we stop these racist messages and accusations. Put our hands out in peace and say thanks for being my neighbor. We need to respect one another and vote based on policies and facts, not crazy talk. And we need to shake hands with one another and be thankful we are part of an America for all.
It was almost exactly two years ago that Florida Governor DeSantis abandoned nearly 50 families at the airport in Martha’s Vineyard. At the time, many of us were deeply inspired by the way the community on the island came together in support of these families, and we are inspired again by seeing the outpouring of love in Springfield, OH. With one of the largest Haitian populations in the United States, Massachusetts once again has an opportunity to put action to words and show our support for members of our communities by patronizing a local Haitian-owned business or one of the many organizations that provide culturally & linguistically competent services to Haitian-American families. You can also join MIRA’s work to support immigrant communities across the Commonwealth such as our Courage to Welcome Campaign or by signing our Petition. You can also volunteer at one of our upcoming Temporary Protected Status clinics, with clinics in Randolph starting September 30 and running through October 11. Other clinics will be scheduled across the state in coming weeks.