Washington, DC – Farah Larrieux, a Haitian immigrant living in the US, was appalled when former President Donald Trump falsely claimed during a presidential debate that Haitian immigrants in Ohio were stealing and eating pets. The unfounded accusations were part of a larger campaign strategy to attack Vice President Kamala Harris on immigration issues.
Defining ‘who we are’
Trump’s anti-immigrant rhetoric, focusing on symbolic threats, appeals to a wide audience despite real immigration challenges faced by communities like Springfield, Ohio. Harris’s response to Trump’s claims has also sparked criticism for not addressing the issue directly.
‘Symbolic threats’
Experts note that Trump’s portrayal of immigrants as violent outsiders resonates with some voters, tapping into deep-seated fears and prejudices about the “Other.” This strategy of dehumanizing immigrants serves as a potent political weapon.
‘Dehumanising’ norms
Trump’s dehumanizing rhetoric, while appealing to his base, may have lasting effects on societal attitudes towards immigrants. The Democratic response has shifted towards a more bipartisan approach, but the issue remains divisive.
Precursor to violence
Dehumanization of marginalized groups has been linked to social and political violence, as seen in recent bomb threats in Springfield. Calls for political leaders to stop demonizing immigrants and the Haitian community advocate for a more compassionate approach.