Statement from Sarah Shipman, Director of EMM 

In recent days, we have witnessed harmful rhetoric and falsehoods being spread about our Haitian neighbors in Springfield, Ohio. These words do more than misinform; they stoke fear, fuel division, and incite violence against those who have come to our country seeking safety and a chance for a new life. We cannot remain silent in the face of such hate. 

As people of faith, we are called to a higher standard. Our scriptures tell us to love our neighbor and welcome the stranger. These are not abstract commands—they are the foundations of our shared humanity. In every refugee, in every immigrant, we see a child of God, deserving of dignity, love, and safety. 

I have seen the courage of families who have fled unimaginable hardships only to face uncertainty and hostility here. But I have also witnessed the generosity of communities who understand that when we welcome newcomers, we open our hearts to transformation. We stand in solidarity with our immigrant siblings because they are part of our human family. When they suffer, we all suffer. 

Now is the time to reject fear and hate. Now is the time to show who we are—people of compassion, people of justice. We must stand with our Haitian neighbors and all newcomers to this country, ensuring that they know they are seen, they are valued, and they are welcome. 

What has happened in the wake of the national firestorm caused by the spreading of falsehoods about Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio? 

There have been many developments since former President Trump and his running mate, J.D. Vance, Senator of Ohio, made false and derogatory accusations against Haitian immigrants. The vitriol prompted multiple bomb threats, leading to the closure of public offices, schools, local colleges, and widespread fears among residents of Springfield and the Ohio Valley. 

We do want to draw attention to the responses of faith-based and non-profit organizations in Springfield and beyond. Long before this became a national story, community leaders, churches, and other allied organizations had formed a non-profit, the Haitian Community Help & Support Center, to serve as a hub for information- and resource-sharing among newcomers. On September 13, clergy and community leaders in Springfield gathered to publicly affirm their support for Haitian immigrants, and to remind others of the scriptural call for welcome. In short order, pastoral letters, statements of support, and calls for action were also shared within the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Ohio and beyond: 

Several news articles have also emphasized the role that local churches and non-profits have played, both prior to and in response to the spread of misinformation, as well as the ways the crisis has compelled the state of Ohio to provide further support to Springfield: 

At the national level, Refugee Council USA issued a statement denouncing hateful rhetoric and calling on advocates to stand in solidarity with Haitian immigrants. We can counter lies and divisiveness by sharing the truth of how newcomers contribute to the communities where they live and work. 

What can we do?  

Following the lead of clergy and community leaders in Springfield and beyond, here are some ways that people of faith and goodwill can respond: 

  • Spread love, not hate, wherever you can. Start by refusing divisiveness and vitriol in your community and entourage. A little kindness goes a long way, especially for neighbors who may not yet feel entirely at home or welcome. 
  • Stop spreading hurtful memes. It’s tempting to make fun of outlandish claims, but it may be more helpful to refuse to breathe life into hurtful lies. 
  • Support the organizations providing solace and help to forcibly displaced migrants. These include churches and community organizations in Springfield, Ohio, and many non-profit entities across the country and around the world. For Springfield-based organizations, see the resources section below. 
  • Contact your elected officials and urge them to denounce lies and hateful rhetoric, and to champion legislation that leads to investment in health care, education, and economic and community development, especially in under-resourced communities across the country. 
  • Participate in worship, music, meditation, nature, reading, reflection, or whatever practices enable you to deepen your compassion and respect for all humanity and creation. The Episcopal Church’s Becoming Beloved Community formation and resources offer vital support for congregations and small groups wanting to make this journey together. 
  • Educate yourself about the complex history of immigration in the U.S., the equally complex histories of other nations and peoples, and factors leading to global migration today. Regarding Haitian immigration to the U.S., we recommend some specific resources below. 
Recommended resources: