An Ohio city at the center of political fury over Haitian migrants canceled its annual celebration of cultural diversity on Monday in response to days of violent threats that have closed schools and government buildings.
Springfield’s two-day CultureFest, which highlights diversity, arts and culture, was scheduled to begin on September 27 but was canceled “in light of recent threats and safety concerns,” the city announced.
“We deeply regret having to cancel CultureFest as we know it is a beloved event for our community,” City Manager Bryan Heck said in a statement. “However, the safety of our residents and visitors must come first.”
Springfield has received a lot of attention in recent days after former President Donald Trump, his running mate J.D. Vance and the Republican presidential campaign amplified debunked claims that Haitian immigrants eat pets and waterfowl.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, a Republican, has denounced the false rumors, saying there is no evidence for them. DeWine planned to hold a news conference in Springfield later Monday.
President Joe Biden, appearing in Philadelphia on Monday at the National HBCU Week Conference, spoke about the situation in Springfield and condemned what he called the “lies and hate.”
‘It’s wrong. It’s just wrong. And it has to stop,” he said.
Two colleges in Springfield held classes virtually Monday. The University of Wittenberg said it received two threats this weekend, “both of which targeted members of the Haitian community.”
Clark State College said it would continue virtually through Friday “due to recent events in Springfield.”
Springfield City Hall, several schools and state vehicle offices in Springfield were forced to evacuate last week after receiving bomb threats.
Thousands of Haitian immigrants have settled in recent years in the predominantly white, working-class city of about 60,000, about 45 miles (70 kilometers) from the state capital of Columbus, finding work in factories and warehouses that have struggled to fill vacancies. The sudden influx has put pressure on schools, health care facilities and city services and increased the cost of housing.
