Statement on Racist Attacks Against Haitian Community
Institute condemns attacks against Haitians
September 24, 2024 | The recent lies about Haitian asylum seekers and refugees in Ohio represent the latest chapter in a disturbing and dangerous trend of bigotry that threaten the lives of real people. The allegations about Haitian immigrants are not only verifiably false, but they also originated from hateful misinformation intended to further divide us. The International Institute of Minnesota supports and stands in solidarity with our Haitian neighbors and all immigrants seeking safety in our state and nationwide.
We know that hateful, racist rhetoric targeting specific communities causes harm beyond just the words that are said. Rhetoric can incite and foment fear that can turn into violent action, as was seen in Springfield, Ohio, after their school district was forced to evacuate due to bomb threats aimed at Haitian immigrants. Weeks after the initial falsehoods were spread, Haitian asylum seekers and refugees in Ohio continue facing threats and intimidation. These threats of violence are a disservice to the Haitian community and undermine the talents and contributions they provide to their new home.
With over a century of experience working alongside immigrants and refugees as they rebuild their lives in a new home, we have seen firsthand how New Americans are essential to the future success of our country.
“No one wants to leave their home, their family, their friends. It takes a lot for someone to feel so desperate and so in danger that they would leave. Haitians fled extreme violence, political instability and hunger. Now, like other New Americans, they’re working every day to create a better life for their families. It’s one of the hardest, most valuable and most American things a person can do. They deserve to be treated with dignity and respect,” said Institute Executive Director Jane Graupman.
Immigrants and refugees are survivors who work tirelessly to reconstruct their lives in a new land. They act as leaders in every community across the nation as business owners, job creators, teachers, healthcare and childcare workers and responsible taxpayers.
“Comments like those made against the Haitian community in Ohio do real damage to real people who contribute and are a part of our community,” Graupman said. “We don’t have to be a nation built on fear. The best way to combat misinformation is to get to know your neighbors. I encourage everyone to think about how you would want to be welcomed and treated if you were starting a new life in a new country.”
Since 1919, the International Institute of Minnesota has delivered critical services and resources to help New Americans transition to their new lives in Minnesota. From language learning and job training to immigration and refugee services, the Institute offers New Americans a pathway for a strong start to a new life. Once stability is achieved, we’re there for next steps, too: from college preparation and career advancement to citizenship support and financial coaching toward home ownership.
“Thanks to each wave of new arrivals to this land of opportunity, we’re a nation forever young, forever bursting with energy and new ideas, and always on the cutting edge, always leading the world to the next frontier. This quality is vital to the future of our nation.”
─President Ronald Reagan, January 19, 1989