Haitian immigrants flee Springfield, Ohio, in droves after Trump election win [View all]

Republican voters think it’s fine to destroy their own economies by deporting immigrants. This will be happening throughout the country as undocumented workers move to cities to better escape notice or try to leave the country.

“For companies in Springfield and in nearby communities that depend on Haitian labor, Trump’s comments could prove damaging. The Haitians who filled thousands of jobs at area packaging and auto plants have helped rejuvenate once-blighted neighborhoods and contributed to the local economy in myriad ways.

While many food products lining the shelves of Springfield’s Caribbean stores are imported, many items – bread from Florida and pinto beans from Nebraska – are American. Chicken, beef and eggs served at Haitian restaurants are regularly sourced from local farms.

Recently, a Haitian community organization bought a former fire station it hopes to turn into a facility for English language classes, drivers’ education and a meeting spot.

“I pay thousands of dollars in income and property taxes every year,” said Payen, “and – because I work with Haitians to file their taxes – I see their W-2s and so on. If these people leave, that money is gone from the city and the local economy.”

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/nov/17/haitian-immigrants-springfield-ohio-trump-election