Former President's recent comments about Haitian immigrants in Springfield have sparked controversy and backlash. The former president falsely claimed that the immigrants in Springfield are from Venezuela, when in fact they are Haitians with legal temporary protected status. Additionally, there is a Haitian American Congresswoman, Sheila Trifilis McCormick, representing Florida, who is the first Haitian American Democrat in Congress.
Congresswoman McCormick expressed her disgust and disdain towards the former president's remarks, labeling them as lies rooted in racist stereotypes. She emphasized that the Haitian immigrants in Ohio entered the United States legally and contribute positively to their communities. The immigrants left Haiti due to gang violence and political instability, seeking a better life in the U.S.
The Congresswoman criticized the former president for using divisive language and stoking fear with xenophobic rhetoric. She highlighted the hard work and contributions of Haitian immigrants to towns like Springfield, which have benefited from their presence. Despite facing challenges, the immigrants chose to relocate to Ohio to support and revitalize struggling communities.
McCormick underscored the importance of recognizing the humanity of immigrants and rejecting harmful stereotypes. She called out the former president's tactics of fear-mongering and division, urging for unity and understanding towards those seeking a better life in the United States.