On Wednesday, Republican Representative Clay Higgins faced significant backlash after he posted a message on X, labeling Haiti as “the nastiest country in the western hemisphere.” His statement appeared to be in response to a formal criminal complaint filed by a Haitian immigrant group in Springfield, Ohio. This complaint was directed at Donald Trump and JD Vance for allegedly spreading false rumors that members of the Haitian community were consuming local pets.
Although Higgins later deleted the post, the damage was done. The comment prompted a strong response, leading to calls for a motion to censure him for inciting “hate and fear.”
This incident is part of a broader ongoing issue impacting the Haitian community and the state of Ohio. In response, the city of Columbus, located less than 50 miles from Springfield, is advancing plans to establish a Commission on Immigrants and Refugee Affairs. This commission aims to address the challenges faced by immigrant communities in the city.
The initiative has been in the works for several years and coincides with growing attention to immigration issues in Ohio. Councilwoman Lourdes Barroso de Padilla emphasized the importance of community solidarity during a public hearing. She stated, “The strength lies in us being together as a unified community. Because today it’s Haiti, and tomorrow it’s another country. This narrative isn’t fair; it creates chaos and uncertainty, making entire communities feel unsafe. Here in Columbus, we will not stand for it.”
The proposed 15-member commission in Columbus will advise the city on issues affecting immigrants, refugees, and their families. All members will either be immigrants, refugees, or the children of immigrants and refugees. The aim is to provide these communities with a platform to influence city policies and initiatives that support their integration and well-being.
The commission announcement follows a yearlong study by the city of Columbus and Ohio State University. This study examined the integration of immigrants in the Columbus metropolitan area and highlighted challenges such as language barriers and difficulties in transferring foreign job qualifications. It also called for better coordination among programs serving immigrant populations.
At the public hearing, several residents and nonprofit representatives voiced their support for the commission. Marc FeQuiere, executive director of the Haitian Community Network, pointed out that immigrants often come to the U.S. eager to contribute, despite facing significant challenges. He noted, “Immigrants take on jobs that others may not want to do. They create small businesses that others may overlook.”
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