Church and Society denounces and opposes the rise of xenophobic, racist, and violent reactions against migrants in the United States, and supports all efforts to build unifying relationships with all people, instead of promoting harmful narratives among diverse ethnicities and cultures that divide us.
Former President Donald J. Trump and Senator J.D. Vance (R-OH), along with other extreme conservative public figures, have made unfounded, racist statements claiming that Haitians from the immigrant community in Springfield, Ohio, are “stealing and eating pet dogs and cats from the residents who live there.” There have been no credible reports of pets being stolen, harmed, injured or abused by the Haitian community, according to Springfield city manager and the head of the Springfield police. This has proven to be a lie.
As a result of these false, egregious claims, the nearly 20,000 Haitians who legally live and work in Springfield have been harassed, threatened with bombs, and now fear for their lives.
The General Board of Church and Society and the General Commission on Religion and Race unequivocally condemn the flagrant lies and hate perpetrated against Haitian migrants. You can view GCORR’s statement here.
Unfortunately, attempts to make newly arrived migrants the target of racism, marginalization, and violence has historically plagued the United States. We most grievously regret that such evil acts continue to fester in the nation, and in some places, in our own churches.
Church and Society denounces and opposes the rise of xenophobic, racist, and violent reactions against migrants in the United States, and supports all efforts to build unifying relationships with all people, instead of promoting harmful narratives among diverse ethnicities and cultures that divide us.
According to the United Methodist Social Principles, we “affirm the dignity, worth, and rights of migrants, immigrants, and refugees.” We further resolve, “as followers of Jesus, to eliminate racism and violence directed toward newly arriving migrants to the United States.” See the Welcoming the Migrant to the U.S, United Methodist Resolution here.
At this critical time in our nation’s history, we urge United Methodists to make a bold witness, stand against hate and take action for all immigrants who live daily with the fear, harassment, and trauma from marginalization and violence. Here’s how:
- Reach out to your neighbors and fellow church members who are immigrants to express solidarity and care, and to listen for what they may need at this time.
- Welcome newly arriving immigrants into your congregation.
- Share and discuss the Resolution “Welcoming the Migrant to the U.S.” in your communities.
- Begin and support English as a Second Language classes as part of a ministry to migrant communities and advocate for federal and state support of expanded ESL classes.
- Advocate for legislation that will uphold the civil and human rights of all migrants in the United States and will provide an opportunity to attain legal status for all undocumented migrants currently in the United States, as well as for those arriving in the future.
Originally published by Church and Society. Republished with permission by ResourceUMC.