Haitian families in Springfield, Ohio say they are under attack following false claims spread by former President Donald Trump and his running mate JD Vance.
According to the Haitian Times, some Haitian families kept their children home from school due to safety concerns following Tuesday’s (September 10) presidential debate, where Trump falsely claimed that Springfield immigrants are abducting and eating pets.
We’re all victims this morning,” a Springfield resident of six years told the outlet. “They’re attacking us in every way.”
The same resident, who wished to remain anonymous in fear of retaliation, said her vehicles have been vandalized multiple times. She added cameras to her driveway and reported the incidents to police to no avail.
“I’m going to have to move because this area is no longer good for me,” she said. “I can’t even leave my house to go to Walmart. I’m anxious and scared.”
Over the past few months, nearly 20,000 Haitians have settled in Springfield.
Several families have said anti-Haitian sentiment has gone viral. A now-debunked claim was originally made last month at a Springfield City Commission meeting by resident Anthony Harris, who alleged that Haitian immigrants were slaughtering park ducks for food.
Video of Harris' allegations was spread on social media and further shared by national figures including Charlie Kirk, Elon Musk, and the GOP vice presidential nominee.
Trump added fuel to flame by mentioning the false claim during Tuesday’s debate against Vice President Kamala Harris. Springfield Police confirmed that they've received no reports of anyone abducting or eating pets. Springfield's city manager also said the false allegations are distracting from the city's real issues.
However, the misinformation has led to Springfield Haitians facing attacks on social media and in real life.
Philomene Philostin, a Haitian business owner, said she’s seeking legal help after several baseless attempts to evict her from her place of business.
“They’re trying to push me out, but this is my home,” Philostin said. “I set up my home, my store to be here. I’m not going anywhere.”
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