Community members took part in the act of “organized love” on Sept. 13.
The Springfield, Ohio, community has come together to uplift local Haitian restaurants and businesses following viral rumors about immigrants eating pets.
What started as a baseless Facebook post emerged as a topic during the U.S. Presidential Debate. At the Sept. 10 event, GOP nominee Donald Trump falsely stated that Haitian immigrants in Springfield were killing and eating neighborhood pets.
Although local officials and police swiftly debunked the rumors, the statement still led to prejudice and more bigotry against Haitian immigrants in the area. Bomb threats led to public schools and municipal offices closing for days as hate groups spread their rhetoric throughout the city. Many Haitian residents also felt scared to leave their homes due to the threats of xenophobic violence.
To stand against the hatred, the Springfield community brought dozens to dine at the Rose Goute Creole restaurant on Sept. 13 in an act of “organized love.” NowThis Impact shared some images of the event.
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