Officials with Haitian Center of Evansville thank local leaders

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) – The director of the Haitian Center of Evansville made a social media post thanking local leaders for addressing “hate, xenophobia and racism” against local Haitian immigrants.

In a Facebook post, Gelina Mascoe singled out a group who signed a recent letter that condemned “anti-immigrant” sentiment in the Tri-State. It included city council, the mayor’s office, United Way and several other organizations. She said their letter proves Evansville has “chosen to move forward, embracing diversity and unity.”

The letter, which was released earlier this week, claims a national surge of harmful rhetoric against the Haitian immigrant community has escalated to alarming levels in Evansville. It even said local Haitian community leaders have been subjected to violence. Eyewitness News has reached out to the Evansville Police Department for reports on the incidents.

The Haitian Center of Evansville provides resources to the area’s Haitian population, including English as a Second Language classes, resource referrals, employment assistance and interpretation services.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW).