09/15/2024
For Immediate Release β 09-14- 2024
Denouncing bigotry against the Haitian community in Ohio.
The Haitian Medical Association Abroad, in one voice with all Haitian professional organizations, strongly condemns the xenophobic statements made regarding the Haitian community in
Springfield, Ohio. The local authorities and all
made regarding the Haitian community in
Springfield, Ohio. The local authorities and all reliable news agencies have proven those statements false.
We reject the putrid mentality of racism in all its forms: discrimination, untruthfulness, and all sorts of derogatory statements aimed at division and hate. We believe that all men and women are equal in mind and body and have the same rights under the law; moreover, they are subjected to the same opportunities our nation offers.
We stand against all those engaged in these sorts of perfidious plans aimed at promoting hatred and division among us. We do not promote, nor do we support, vulgarity, rhetorical hatefulness, and destructive actions toward any group or persons, people, or nations, regardless of race, color, s*x, religion, or economic status.
We credit leadership that utilizes constructive analysis and planning with practical actions aimed at viable solutions-oriented endeavors aimed at the betterment of our communities, cities, and nations of all people.
Let us remember the glorious past of this small nation, Haiti, which in 1804 dared to declare independence and affirm that all enslaved men and women were created equal. They fought for this ideal, defeating the Bonaparte army against all odds and conceiving the first independent black republic. Haiti's history encompasses such glorious contributions as accompanying the American liberation army in 1779 in Savannah, Georgia, to fight for American independence.
The story of Haitians coming to the US is no different from that of all other immigrants who contributed to strengthening the fabric of this great nation. Haitians are proud, hardworking, law-abiding, and tax-paying individuals. They have excelled in all professional fields: politics, education, science, sports, and the arts. They are great contributors to American society. Their dream is to achieve a better life for their children; their story is part of the great American experiment! They, too, embrace and believe in βlife, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.β
The Haitian Americans and the Haitians of American ancestry are a united constituency of more than 800,000. Together with the AMHE, they support the rights of their communities and respect those of all members of the American society.
Karl Latortue, M.D.,
President, AMHE New York Chapter