ENTERPRISE, Ala. — Transitioning from the bustling streets of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, to the tranquil setting of Albertville, Alabama, has been a significant adjustment for Sarah Jacques.
The 22-year-old has adapted to the slower pace of life over the past year, securing employment at a car seat manufacturing plant and joining a Creole-language church. She has come to value the safety and stability of her new home, especially after experiencing the political unrest and violence prevalent in Haiti.
However, recent comments from prominent political figures about Haitian migrants have introduced unforeseen hurdles. The narrative surrounding Haitian migrants, including claims of crime and discontent, has contributed to a shift in local perceptions.
“People used to greet us warmly, but now there’s a noticeable change,” Jacques expressed through a translator. “Now, when people see us, they seem hesitant and wary.”
In response to rising tensions fueled by misinformation, a diverse coalition of religious leaders, law enforcement, and community members in Alabama is proactively working to integrate Haitian residents into their communities.
With unrest in Haiti escalating, migrants have turned to a new initiative introduced by the Biden administration that permits the U.S. to accept up to 30,000 individuals monthly from Haiti and other Latin American countries for two years, offering work permits. This program could allow around 300,000 Haitians to remain in the U.S. until at least February 2026.
Recent census data indicates that Alabama is home to 2,370 individuals of Haitian descent, though there is no official record of population changes following the program’s launch.
Albertville has been experiencing demographic shifts for the past thirty years, noted Robin Lathan, an aide to the mayor. While there are no specific numbers regarding the influx of Haitians, Lathan remarked on a noticeable increase, particularly over the last year.
According to local school officials, 34% of the district’s 5,800 students were learning English as a second language last school year, a significant increase from 17% in 2017.
On social media, a post showing men disembarking a bus for a poultry plant sparked speculation about the hiring of undocumented workers, leading to community unrest.
Poultry plant representatives clarified that all employees are legally permitted to work in the U.S.
The situation escalated during a public meeting where residents voiced concerns over the federal program for Haitian migrants while expressing negative sentiments about the Haitian community.
Unique Dunson, a local activist, highlighted the recurring issue: “Every time Albertville sees new minority groups, conflict arises.”
To counteract negativity, Dunson placed encouraging billboards throughout the community in multiple languages, stating “welcome neighbor, glad you came.”
Pastor John Pierre-Charles, who established his Creole-language church in 2006, has seen his congregation grow from seven to about 300 members, leading to the addition of classrooms for educational resources to better serve the Haitian community.
Despite this growth, he describes the past few months as the most challenging for Haitians in Albertville.
“Many are fearful about their status and how they will be treated,” said Pierre-Charles, emphasizing the desperate need for community support.
Following the public meetings, he reached out to city officials for greater support in housing and food to ensure a stable environment for his community.
In August, Gerilynn Hanson took the initiative to address community concerns about the impact of migration. Now, she is refocusing her efforts toward fostering understanding and connection among residents and migrants.
In September, Hanson partnered with Pierre-Charles and community leaders to establish a nonprofit aimed at offering housing solutions and English classes.
“We can observe Springfield’s experience and ensure that it doesn’t happen in our community,” she said, stressing the importance of unity and open communication.
Similar discussions have emerged in various parts of Alabama, including areas with a minuscule Haitian population.
In Sylacauga, town meetings have sparked questions about the perceived influx of Haitian migrants, despite the town housing only 60 individuals of Haitian descent in a community of approximately 12,000.
In Enterprise, concerns culminated at the Open Door Baptist Church, where residents gathered to discuss the implications of a growing Haitian population.
James Wright, the chief of the Ma-Chis Lower Creek Indian Tribe, spoke of worries regarding the impact of newcomers on community culture.
Concerns echoed by attendees included misconceptions about Haitian migrants being dangerous.
Nonetheless, some community members sought to alleviate fears and promote understanding of the migrant experience.
The Enterprise police chief reported a lack of evidence to support fears of rising crime linked to Haitian migrants, emphasizing a collaborative effort to resolve any complaints that emerged.
“While some may disagree with my stance, I’m here to provide the facts,” Moore stated.
