Trump and Vance's Baseless Claims Fuel Anti-Haitian Sentiment in Ohio

False accusations of Haitians eating pets in Springfield have led to increased threats and harassment against the community, reflecting a long history of discrimination.

• Former President Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance have falsely claimed that Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, are eating household pets.
• These baseless accusations have led to bomb threats, school evacuations, and increased harassment against the Haitian community in Springfield.
• Vance admitted to fabricating the claims to draw national attention to immigration issues, despite the lack of any evidence supporting his statements.
• The incident echoes historical discrimination against Haitians in the U.S., including being unfairly blamed for the spread of HIV/AIDS in the 1980s.
• Haitians in Springfield, who sought refuge from political strife and natural disasters, now face renewed xenophobia and threats to their safety.

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