Local Haitian leader urges Rhode Islanders to attend gala to learn about the culture

CRANSTON, R.I. (WPRI) — Rhode Island is home to a large Haitian population, and on Friday they are celebrating their culture at the 11th annual New Bridges for Haitian Success gala.

New Bridges for Haitian Success founder Bernard Georges said this year’s gala comes at an important time in American politics.

Last week, former President Donald Trump made claims that suggested Haitian immigrants were stealing and eating cats and dogs in Springfield, Ohio. Those claims have not been proven to be true.

Georges is encouraging people to come out to the gala and learn about Haitian culture.

“Misinformation spreads, and it’s going to affect the children, the Haitian children at school. Imagine friends start calling them names,” he explained. “Come to the gala to support us to learn more about the Haitian culture, the history, and also some of the successful Haitians we have here in the United States.”

The organization funds programs for housing, job training and financial aid for Haitians in the Ocean State.

Tickets are available online .

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com.