AFT Leaders Condemn Political Vitriol and Racism Targeting Haitian Community

WASHINGTON—AFT Leaders Respond to Political Rhetoric Targeting Haitian Community in Springfield, Ohio

AFT President Randi Weingarten and Ohio Federation of Teachers President Melissa Cropper have issued a statement addressing the ongoing hostile rhetoric and misinformation directed at the Haitian community in Springfield, Ohio.

Weingarten and Cropper emphasized the need for support and unity in the Springfield community rather than the divisive tactics employed by some politicians. "The Springfield community needs help, not hate. Instead of working with city leaders to address issues like affordable housing, healthcare access, education and transportation, divisive politicians like JD Vance, Donald Trump and Senate candidate Bernie Moreno have been spreading hatred in a cynical attempt to score political points," they stated.

The leaders criticized the actions of these politicians, stating, "There is no place in a civilized nation for conduct like Vance’s bald-faced admission that he is telling lies to fuel bigotry, and Trump’s planned visit to Springfield to fan the flames. The candidates’ deeply racist remarks are unacceptable on their face, but the consequences are real: They have incited bomb threats and led to an influx of white supremacist groups."

Weingarten and Cropper voiced their support for Springfield’s efforts to tackle their challenges constructively while maintaining a welcoming environment for Haitian migrants. "We stand with the Springfield community—including educators, healthcare workers, migrant advocates, and city and state officials—as they work constructively to address their city’s growing pains while remaining a welcoming home for Haitian migrants, many of whom have fled violence. We commend Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine for correctly labeling these stories as ‘garbage that was simply not true’ and for denouncing the hate groups that are descending on Springfield."

In their statement, they highlighted the importance of the United States' foundational values, "The United States was built on immigration. We look after our neighbors and believe in a shared future. We stand with all of Springfield’s residents as they resist the forces of darkness and demagoguery determined to exploit their city for rank political gain."

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The AFT represents 1.8 million pre-K through 12th-grade teachers; paraprofessionals and other school-related personnel; higher education faculty and professional staff; federal, state and local government employees; nurses and healthcare workers; and early childhood educators.