NEW YORK — Journalists at a news outlet focused on the Haitian community in the United States are facing severe harassment and intimidation following their coverage of a fabricated story alleging immigrants in an Ohio town were consuming pets.
An incident this week saw an editor from the publication receive a police visit at her home due to a false report of a heinous crime, leading the outlet to cancel a planned community forum in Springfield, Ohio. In light of escalating threats and disturbing online posts, the publication has suspended public comments on stories related to the incident.
The publication, which previously engaged the Committee to Protect Journalists for safety training in Haiti, is now seeking guidance on ensuring staff safety within the United States.
“We’ve never encountered anything like this,” stated the founder and publisher. Despite the onslaught of hundreds of threatening messages, the news outlet remains resolute in its commitment to journalistic integrity.
“We refuse to retreat,” the publisher emphasized. “While we’re taking necessary precautions, our primary responsibility is to report the truth without bias, and we are unafraid.”
Founded in 1998, the publication was created to address issues pertinent to first- and second-generation Haitians in the U.S. Initially a print publication, it transitioned online in 2012 and now garners daily visits from 10,000 to 15,000 readers, with increasing interest in recent weeks.
An alarming incident occurred when the special projects editor was visited by police after a Haitian advocacy group received an email claiming a crime had transpired at her residence. The misleading report not only targeted her but also camouflaged the identity of the instigators through another organization.
The editor expressed concerns that such incidents are the result of hateful rhetoric, suggesting a rise in intimidation tactics against journalists. “This represents a new form of domestic terrorism that must be treated accordingly,” she remarked.
A representative from the Committee to Protect Journalists expressed outrage at the egregious harassment faced by journalists, emphasizing that such conversations about safety should not be necessary.
Even prior to the recent spotlight on Springfield, the publication was actively covering the rise of immigrants seeking opportunities and affordable living in the Midwest. A recent article highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by newcomers, reflecting broader societal struggles with immigration.
The outlet has received messages of support from various journalists, highlighting unity in the face of adversity. “It has been deeply touching to see such solidarity,” said the publisher.
