Uplifting Local Voices in Ohio

It has been powerful and humbling to see our community respond so forcefully to the misinformation, hate, and demagoguery we have seen come out of false accusations about the Haitian community in Springfield, Ohio. 

We have heard from local and state leaders, employers, and partners across the state and the nation who are saying loud and clear that newcomers in Springfield  – just like in communities elsewhere – have brought dynamism and economic growth, and further enriched the social fabric of the city.

U.S. Presidential candidate Trump has announced he will visit Springfield in the coming days, which will surely further fan the flames around this community and the broader narrative on immigration.

But we will not let that prevail. 

The Lab is proud to work with partners who are countering false, harmful rhetoric, and we want to share some resources on ways the Lab community nationwide can respond – by elevating local voices and stories; re-sharing critical messages that highlight the truth about immigrants and refugees in Ohio; and supporting local organizations who are welcoming newcomers.

We are especially grateful for the work of our state partner, Vibrant Ohio, for their leadership responding to local needs, creating space for shared strategy, and uplifting their community.

Ohio Voices to Amplify:

• “Springfield has a rich history of providing refuge for the oppressed and being a place of opportunity... The Springfield I know is not the one you hear about in social media rumors. It is a city made up of good, decent, welcoming people. They are hard workers — both those who were born in this country and those who settled here.” — Ohio Governor DeWine in the New York Times.

• “It’s frustrating when national politicians, on the national stage, mischaracterize what is actually going on and misrepresent our community... I am sorry this is going on in our community and that [our Haitian community members] have to endure this type of hate.” — Springfield Mayor Rob Rue in the New York Times.

• “This claim is totally false and dangerously irresponsible of politicians aiming to sow division and fear… The city of Dayton stands by its immigrant and refugee community and we value all of their contributions to our city’s vibrant culture and economy. We will remain committed to creating an inclusive environment for all Dayton residents.” — Dayton Mayor Jeffrey J Mims, Jr. on Instagram.

• “Welcoming newcomers has deep historic and cultural roots in Columbus. We are reminded of this tradition of welcome every day in our neighborhoods and at our family dinner tables. From Refugee Road to German Village and beyond, so many of us in Columbus can trace our family history back to a decision to come here for a better chance at life.” — Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther and Chamber CEO Don dePerro in a USA Today op-ed.

• “Working with migrants and refugees is a wonderful way to put our Catholic faith into action, just as is serving any other person in need.” — Cincinnati Archbishop Dennis M. Schnurr.

• “Welcome refugees and immigrant families with your open heart and kindness in your neighborhood, and you will never have to regret your kindness. All cities in Ohio, including Springfield, who have welcomed the New American community in their communities have benefited…. The State and the city government here in Ohio know that, and that’s why they are welcoming refugee & immigrant families here in the Buckeye State.” — Ohio-based Refugee Storytellers Collective member Tara Dhungana.

Other Messages and Facts to Uplift

• The City of Springfield’s official website now contains a helpful page on Immigration FAQs.

• The Ohio Immigrant Alliance launched #OneLoveOhio spotlighting acts of kindness and positive stories of community-building. 

• The Toledo Blade Editorial Board wrote powerfully about why the city of Toledo and Lucas County continue to see value in welcoming immigrants and refugees.

• The American Immigration Council published an informative piece highlighting the impact of immigrants in Ohio. 

• Local Cincinnati station WCPO reported on how the Haitian community is finding strength and healing through its shared faith. 

• Springfield native John Legend posted a video on Instagram where he talked about how good immigration has been good for his hometown. Other national figures — such as Jamelle Bouie in the New York Times, Edwidge Danticat in the Washington Post, and Jozy Altidore in News Nation — have also chimed in with words of support.

How You Can Support

• The Haitian Community Health & Support Center is a Springfield-based organization that provides information and materials to welcome new arrivals, organizes youth programming, and connects Springfield's refugees and immigrants with resources in areas such as housing, language access, and workforce development. 

• The Springfield Foundation’s website distributes donation support to Springfield residents in need.

The Lab will continue to share resources, opportunities for engagement, and tools for our partners across the field to push for accurate narratives, support inclusive policies, and build capacity for the critical work of partners on the ground.