Springfield, Ohio is grappling with a series of threats targeting schools and colleges amid unfounded rumors about Haitian migrants.
According to Newsweek, Wittenberg University received shooting and bomb threats directed at members of the Haitian community, prompting the closure of its campus and a shift to remote classes.
The threats extended beyond higher education institutions, affecting elementary schools as well. Two elementary schools were evacuated on Monday due to information received by local police. These incidents mark the fifth and sixth buildings in the Springfield City School District to be targeted within a week.
The unrest in Springfield appears to stem from a debunked rumor that Haitian migrants were stealing and eating pets in the city. This claim, which originated from a single Facebook post, has since been disavowed by its author. Despite the lack of evidence, the rumor gained traction and was amplified by prominent political figures.
Ohio Senator JD Vance and former President Donald Trump both repeated these claims in public statements. Trump went as far as promising to begin a mass deportation plan in Springfield during a recent debate and subsequent speeches.
Governor Mike DeWine attempted to ease tensions by addressing the situation on ABC News. He stated:
Let me tell you what we do know though. What we know is that the Haitians who are in Springfield are legal. They came to Springfield to work. Ohio is on the move, and Springfield has really made a great resurgence, with a lot of companies coming in.
The escalating situation has had a significant impact on the local community, particularly students at Wittenberg University. Gabby Conaway, a junior at the university, expressed her shock at the rapid escalation of events:
All of the threats downtown and even on campus, it's almost surreal how quickly things have escalated. It's just really scary.
Taylor J. H. Harper, junior class president at Wittenberg, described how students have been supporting each other during this challenging time. He noted that students opened their homes to those who felt unsafe on campus, demonstrating a strong sense of community in the face of adversity.
Local and federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, are investigating the threats made against schools and Wittenberg University. As a precautionary measure, Clark State College has also shifted to remote classes for the entire week.
The city of Springfield has taken additional steps to address safety concerns. The annual CultureFest event, which was scheduled to celebrate diversity, arts, and local culture, has been canceled.
City Manager Bryan Heck explained the decision: "We deeply regret having to cancel CultureFest, as we know it is a beloved event for our community. However, the safety of our residents and visitors must come first."
Springfield officials and Wittenberg University administrators continue to urge students and residents to remain vigilant. The university has promised to provide updates to the campus community as more information becomes available.
The situation in Springfield highlights the real-world consequences of misinformation and its impact on local communities. Elementary schools have been evacuated, college campuses closed, and community events canceled due to unfounded rumors about Haitian migrants. As investigations continue, local officials and community leaders are working to address safety concerns and dispel false narratives about the city's immigrant population.
