Welcoming Our Haitian Neighbors

Welcoming Our Haitian Neighbors: A Community Effort in Springfield

The growth of the Haitian population in Springfield, Ohio, can be traced to the mid-2010s, when the city started seeing an influx of Haitian immigrants. This increase was partly due to changes in U.S. immigration policy and economic conditions, which made Springfield attractive due to its lower cost of living and available jobs, particularly in the warehousing and manufacturing sectors. Additionally, many Haitians were seeking refuge after the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, and Springfield became a destination as word spread within the Haitian community. Today’s Haitian population in Springfield is estimated to range between 12,000 and 15,000 individuals.

Colonial Village: Exploitation and Uncertainty

Recently, you likely have read about Colonial Village and the city’s crackdown of landlords housing people in unsafe conditions. Many Haitians were brought to Colonial Village by a man who promised housing and employment. Instead, they were met with slum-like conditions in a high rent building full of code violations. Many Haitians, new to the U.S., were unaware of their rental rights. They knew their living conditions were unacceptable, but with limited knowledge of their options, they felt stuck. Having fled hardship in Haiti, they were hesitant to speak out or push for justice.

Thanks to organizations like COMPASS and the Community Refugee & Immigration Services (CRIS), these families are now receiving the help they need.

Broad Street Supports Their Transition

Through the City of Columbus funding, COMPASS has stepped in to cover deposits and rent until the families can get on their feet. In addition, they’ve provided essentials like food, storage, and transportation, helping ease the burden of resettling in a foreign country. Our church through COMPASS has helped rehouse many Haitians out of Colonial Village into new housing here in Columbus and in Springfield. Also, COMPASS staff, Pat Scott has worked in collaboration with a relocation company quite instrumental in rehousing efforts for the Haitians evicted from their homes at Colonial Village.

One crucial person in this process has been Sophia Pierrelus, a contractor through COMPASS. Sophia, a leader within the Haitian community, has been the bridge between new arrivals and support services, interpreting and ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are met.

Springfield: A New Opportunity

Springfield, with its affordable cost of living and employment opportunities, has become a beacon of hope for these families. Word spreads quickly through the Haitian community, and many are eager to make Springfield their home. Yet, the journey there hasn’t been without its challenges.

Some have faced discrimination. Fear has grown in the community in recent days with many afraid to walk the streets due to bomb threats and rising hostility. For some, this means it is time to move on and uproot their lives again. Others feel they need to stay as they continue to build a new life here.

Just as any community developed by migrants, it is confirmed that they are often givers into a community than users of government resources. It is evident with Haitians in Springfield, that despite overwhelming the social services systems e.g. education and healthcare, their economic contribution has positively impacted the community.

A Time for Action and Solidarity

While the threats and discrimination have been disheartening, they’ve also shed light on the biases these families face—and have rallied the wider community to stand in solidarity. Churches, community members, and local businesses are coming together to support their new neighbors. One bright spot has been the growing patronage of Haitian-owned businesses. One restaurant Sophia recommends is Springfield’s Rose Goute Creole, which offers a delicious array of Haitian dishes. Or if you want to stay local, a quick google of Haitian restaurants in Columbus will offer you a variety of options around the city.

Here are a few Haitian food recommendations from Sophia:

• Griot – Fried pork
• Tassot – Fried goat or beef
• Pikliz – A spicy slaw made with peppers, served atop plantains
• Black rice – A rich, savory rice dish
• Haitian patties – A must-try pastry!

Moving Forward Together

The challenges facing our Haitian neighbors remind us of the importance of community. As we continue to welcome these families, let’s strive to be a place of refuge and hope. Through support from local organizations like COMPASS, the resilience of Haitian community leaders, and the generosity of Springfield’s residents, we are taking steps toward a brighter future for all.