A disturbing and false claim took center stage in the recent presidential debate between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris. Trump stated that Haitian migrants were “eating pets” in Springfield, Ohio—a baseless assertion that has been widely debunked.
The comment has sparked outrage and raised concerns within Haitian communities across the U.S., including here in Houston. Haitian residents and community leaders in the city spoke out against Trump’s remarks while shedding light on the richness of Haitian culture.
The comment from Trump plays into dangerous stereotypes about immigrants. Many Haitians in Houston feel that such rhetoric is dehumanizing and undermines their contributions to American society.
Since the middle of the 20th century, there have been numerous reasons for Haitians to migrate to the US, including ongoing political unrest, persecution, economic downturns, natural disasters like the devastating 2010 earthquake, and the recent breakdown of fundamental government services and rampant gang violence after President Jovenel Moïse’s assassination in 2021. Approximately 731,000 Haitian immigrants made up the 15th largest foreign-born population in the US as of 2022.
“I was shocked because we are watching who could be our next president, making statements without factual basis. It’s disheartening when someone with influence spreads falsehoods like this, impacting our community significantly.”
– Dr. Sledge Leonidas, Houston Caribbean Professional Association-founder and chairman
For many in the Haitian community, Trump’s comments were not just offensive but part of a larger history of misrepresentation and xenophobia.
“To hear it live at the presidential debate took me back,” Dr. Sledge Leonidas, founder and chairman of the Houston Caribbean Professional Association, said. “I was shocked because we are watching who could be our next president, making statements without factual basis. It’s disheartening when someone with influence spreads falsehoods like this, impacting our community significantly.”
Richard Alexandre, board member of Houston Haitians United, expressed how the misinformation has deeply affected the Haitian community, particularly in Ohio.
“We’re seeing a mental health crisis, bullying in schools, and even hate speech at Haitian restaurants,” he explained. “There are bomb threats at Springfield schools where Haitians are afraid to even go grocery shopping or attend classes. We want Donald Trump and J.D. Vance to have some respect for the Haitian community and all immigrants. We demand respect and decency from leaders.”
Haitians in the U.S. have long faced damaging stereotypes. Leonidas recalled that when he first arrived in the U.S. in the 1980s, Haitians were blamed for bringing AIDS into the country.
“My friends didn’t want to sit by me in the cafeteria. They didn’t want to play with me, all out of fear of getting AIDS.”
Today, these unfounded accusations have resurfaced, and they continue to shape the experience of Haitian immigrants and their children.
“Now, I can relate to kids being bullied at school because they’re accused of eating cats and dogs. This rhetoric trickles down into everyday life—from conversations at the grocery store to workplaces, people start to believe these lies.”
Alexandre added that these remarks are part of a broader pattern of division.
“It’s a dog whistle. First, it was the Asian community during COVID-19. Now, it’s the Haitian community. The end goal is to deport legal immigrants and de-naturalizing citizens based on race. It’s hurtful and racist.”
Harry Jean-Baptiste, a commercial real estate advisor, also expressed his disappointment in Trump’s misinformation.
“As a community, we’ve worked hard to build bridges and integrate. When rhetoric like this surfaces, it feels like our work is being undone by a single lie,” he said. “We’ve always valued hard work, family, and education. It’s frustrating that negative, false narratives overshadow these positive aspects of our culture.”
The Richness of Haitian Culture
“We are a people who have endured and survived so much—colonialism, earthquakes, and now this political targeting. We are the first Black nation to win our independence.”
– Harry Jean-Baptiste, Commercial Real Estate Advisor.
John-Baptiste said Haitian culture’s rich and diverse history extends far beyond the negative narratives often propagated in the media.
“Haitian culture, like many others, is very diverse. Our food is some of the best in the world, influenced by our African heritage, French colonization, and Caribbean roots. Our dishes are made fresh, and we don’t use preservatives. We are known for our music, which is full of instruments, and our artistry. Some of the world’s best artists come from Haiti.”
He also touched on how deeply Haitians value education and hard work.
“We come for a purpose—to leave better opportunities for the next generation. We are one of the most educated people you’ll meet, and we work hard to contribute to the societies we live in. Rice University’s President is a Haitian and the first Black man in that position. We instill leadership and a sense of community in our children. These are the things I wish were more prevalent in the media instead of the negative narratives.”
Jean-Baptiste pointed out that Haitian culture is also deeply rooted in resilience.
“We are a people who have endured and survived so much—colonialism, earthquakes, and now this political targeting. We are the first Black nation to win our independence,” he said. “But through it all, we have maintained our pride in who we are. The beauty of our culture is our strength.”
The Haitian community has played a crucial role in shaping the cultural and economic landscape of Houston, one of the most diverse cities in the country. Haitians began migrating to Houston in the 1970s, drawn by its booming oil and gas industry and the opportunities within the largest medical center in the world. Today, many Haitians in Houston work in healthcare, oil and gas, real estate, and other professional sectors, contributing significantly to the city’s economy.
“We have around eight to 10 Haitian churches in Houston, and new restaurants are popping up, showcasing our food. We also have professionals offering plumbing, consulting, tax, and real estate services. Our presence is felt in the medical field, with many Haitian physicians and dentists in the community. Houston’s economy benefits greatly from the Haitian community’s contributions,” Leonidas said.
Houston has recognized the Haitian community’s cultural significance, with former Mayor Sylvester Turner declaring Haitian Flag Day in the city. Leonidas encouraged participation in local events and cultural gatherings for those unfamiliar with Haitian culture.
“Look up a Haitian business or attend a Haitian event. We host cultural expos. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about our food, music, and traditions. Houston Haitians United and other organizations continue to promote Haitian culture in the city,” he said. “A quick Google search doesn’t hurt either. We demand respect and decency. What’s happening now sets a bad precedent, but we will continue to fight for our community and show the world what Haitians are truly about.”
