Immigration Advocates and Allies Across the State Unite to Express Outrage Against Defamation of Haitian Immigrants
BOSTON – The Haitian community in Massachusetts is urgently calling on all partners, elected officials and allies committed to justice to join us for a powerful solidarity movement. We must unite to support the Haitian community and unapologetically reject defamatory and hateful discourse.
We continue to vehemently condemn the baseless accusations against Haitian immigrants not only in Springfield, Ohio, but nationwide. We believe these false claims not only insult our dignity, but also undermine the immense contributions Haitians have made to the American culture and economy for decades.
Whether in Springfield, Ohio, or anywhere in the country, Haitian immigrants come here with the clear intent to work diligently, support their families, and boost the local economy. Despite their contributions, they continue to be unjustly vilified by political leaders for political gains. We must confront these lies and stand against the hate-filled rhetoric aimed at weakening our community and our moral strength.
This unjust treatment is not new for Haitians. It is time for this campaign of discrimination to end. We must unite to protect human dignity. Haiti is the birthplace of freedom and has consistently championed justice, and global solidarity.
Objectives:
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End the Defamation: We demand an immediate cessation of these false accusations and insist that Haitian immigrants not be used as political pawns.
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Protect Human Dignity: Haitian immigrants, like all other communities, deserve respect. We call for action against these racist attacks and a public apology from those who have harmed the Haitian community.
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Recognize The Contributions of Haitian Immigrants: Haitian immigrants contribute significantly to the prosperity of this country. Hate speech cannot erase these valuable efforts and contributions.
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Stand Against Hate: We urge political leaders, media, and civil society to reject this prejudice and advocate for justice and equality for all.
Together, we will confront these lies and assert our honor, respect, and dignity. We must stand firmly against discrimination, rise up against racism, fight against injustice and oppose hatred with unwavering resolve.
The Haitian community in the United States remains steadfast in defending the rights and dignity of Haitian immigrants. We will not let lies and discrimination define us. Our unity and strength will stand as a testament to our enduring spirit and commitment to justice.
WHAT: Rally of solidarity by the Haitian community of Massachusetts and allies to speak out against the defamation of Haitian immigrants
THEME: “TOGETHER AGAINST LIES, UNITED FOR DIGNITY!”
WHEN: TOMORROW, September 24, 2024 at 12:00 p.m.
WHERE: The Embrace Monument, 139 Tremont St, Boston, MA
WHO:
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Pastor Dieufort “Keke” Fleurissaint, Haitians Americans United (HAU)
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Dr. Geralde Gabeau, Immigrant Family Services Institute (IFSI)
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Boston City Council President Ruthzee Louijeune
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Liz Sweet, Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition (MIRA)
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Heather Yountz, Massachusetts Law Reform Institute (MLRI)
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Iván Espinoza-Madrigal, Lawyers for Civil Rights Boston
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Roxana Rivera, SEIU 32 BJ
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Carline Desire, Association of Haitian Women in Boston (AFAB)
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State Senator Nick Collins
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State Senator Liz Miranda
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State Representative William Driscoll
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State Representative Brandy Fluker Oakley
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Former State Representative Marie St. Fleur