^{FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE}

^{September 11, 2024}

^CONTACT:

^{Yanci Nuñez | ynunez@alianzaamericas.org (312) 866-0312}

‍Chicago, IL — Alianza Americas, a network of Latin American and Caribbean immigrant-led organizations in the United States condemns the racist and xenophobic rhetoric and narratives used to demonize immigrants during last night's debate.

During the recent presidential debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, we witnessed a troubling escalation of anti-immigrant rhetoric. “Donald Trump’s fear mongering lie accusing (Haitian) immigrants of stealing and eating people's dogs is deeply racist and xenophobic, and should anger us all. These statements are not only disrespectful to the thousands of Haitians living in Ohio, but endanger the lives of all immigrants who are valued contributors to our communities across the country.  We won't stand for being scapegoats for a failing campaign,” stated Tessa Petit, Executive Director of Florida Immigrant Coalition. 

“Immigrants are essential to the fabric of this country. We deserve to be seen, valued, and included as members of our communities. Instead of giving space to the anti-immigrant and racist statements that seek to dehumanize us, the candidates should propose effective international policy measures to gradually, but steadily overcome the multiple factors that keep forcing people from Latin America and the Caribbean to leave their countries in search for safety and a dignified life,” stated Arnold Ciego, Executive Director of Hijos de Livingston. “Both candidates had a clear opportunity to address the American people and encourage them to see the humanity in migrant families and lead with a message to address immigration beyond punitive measures, but with policies to build strong communities,” concluded Ciego.

We call on our national leaders to reject anti-immigrant fear campaigns and to uphold the fundamental principles of dignity, safety, and respect for all people, regardless of their immigration status. At Alianza Americas, we stand committed to fighting for the rights of migrants and for building inclusive communities that honor the contributions of immigrants.

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Alianza Americas is the premier transnational advocacy network of Latin American migrant-led organizations working in the United States, across the Americas, and globally to create an inclusive, equitable and sustainable way of life for communities across North, Central and South America.

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