By Anthony Joseph

One of the most egregious statements made by Donald Trump that Haitians—and by extension, Black and Caribbean people—are “eating dogs” in the United States. This is more than just a harmful stereotype; it is a calculated effort to portray these communities as uncivilized and less than human.

When influential figures propagate such narratives, they reinforce dangerous stereotypes and expose people to potential violence. In a society where pets are cherished and considered family members, implying that Black people are “feasting on pets” not only presents a false image but also incites hostility against these communities.

Imagine being a Haitian or a Caribbean immigrant in America, striving to build a life, contribute positively to society, and be a part of the community, only to be reduced to a harmful caricature by someone in a position of power. This kind of rhetoric emboldens those with racist inclinations and validates their prejudices, leading to an environment where these communities can face increased hostility and even physical danger. In a country where gun ownership is widespread, suggesting that a group is a threat to beloved pets can have dire consequences.

Such dehumanization has historical roots. Throughout history, Black people have been portrayed as less than human to justify their mistreatment and oppression. From slavery to segregation, these narratives have been used to deny basic rights and justify inhumane treatment. Today, when a figure like Trump makes these statements, he taps into a long-standing tradition of dehumanization that continues to have dangerous repercussions.

Another aspect of the former American president’s rhetoric is his attempt to pit Black and Brown communities against each other. By suggesting that immigrants are “taking jobs” from African Americans and Hispanics, he aims to sow discord among communities that share similar struggles against systemic inequality and discrimination. This divisive tactic is designed to make these groups compete for a “small piece of pie” rather than uniting to demand a fair share for all.

The reality is that many immigrants are doing jobs that others are unwilling to take, often under harsh and exploitative conditions. They work long hours in low-paying, often dangerous jobs, to support their families and contribute to the economy. The narrative that they are “taking over” or that they are inherently criminal is not only misleading but also ignores the systemic issues that cause economic disparities.

When leaders like Trump use this kind of rhetoric, they deflect attention away from the real causes of economic inequality, such as corporate exploitation, wage stagnation, and inadequate social safety nets. They seek to divide marginalized communities so that they are too busy fighting each other to challenge the structures that keep them oppressed. The message that Black and Brown people need to hear is one of solidarity and unity, not division.

Black and Brown solidarity is crucial in the fight against systemic racism and inequality. They must resist efforts to pitting themselves against each other and instead work together for a larger piece of the pie—one that includes fair wages, safe working conditions, healthcare, and educational opportunities for all. By standing together, they can build a more inclusive and just society.

Trump’s history of racist comments extends beyond the recent debate. He has referred to countries with predominantly Black populations as “shithole countries” and questioned the leadership and capabilities of Black people. These remarks are not accidental, they reflect a mindset that views Black people and other minorities as inferior and incapable of self-governance.

Such views are dangerous, particularly when they come from someone who has held the highest office in that country. They perpetuate a cycle of prejudice and discrimination that affects every aspect of life for people of colour, from daily interactions to opportunities in education and employment. When a leader repeatedly makes racist comments, it sends a signal to society that these views are acceptable, further entrenching systemic racism.

Additionally, Trump’s stance on women’s rights, particularly reproductive rights, demonstrates a disregard for the autonomy and health of women. His reversal on the issue of abortion and support for bans that criminalize healthcare providers are direct attacks on women’s rights to make decisions about their own bodies.

Women, particularly women of colour, already face significant barriers in accessing healthcare. Policies that further restrict their rights not only endanger their health but also perpetuate a system that values control over compassion. Stories of women suffering from miscarriages and being denied care are harrowing reminders of the dangers of such policies. These narratives are not about protecting life; they are about exerting control over women’s bodies and choices.

Trump’s comments about Black Americans suffering more than any other group from the “pro-crime agenda of white liberals” and the portrayal of urban areas as dangerous and unmanageable are part of a broader strategy to paint minorities as the source of societal problems. This is an old tactic that has been used to justify discrimination, segregation, and violence against Black communities. By casting Black people as the face of crime and disorder, Trump and others like him seek to undermine calls for racial justice and equality.

Such rhetoric also serves to deflect blame for systemic issues onto the most vulnerable members of society. Instead of addressing the root causes of crime, such as poverty, lack of education, and systemic discrimination, this narrative shifts the focus onto the supposed failings of individuals and communities. This diverts attention from the need for systemic change and reinforces harmful stereotypes.

In these challenging times, it is essential for all marginalized communities to stand together against rhetoric and policies that seek to divide and dehumanize. Black, Brown, and immigrant communities must unite in solidarity, recognizing that their strength lies in their diversity and shared struggles. They must reject narratives that paint them as threats and instead demand representation, equality, and respect.

This means not only calling out racism and misogyny but actively working to dismantle the systems that allow them to persist. It includes advocating for policies that protect the rights of all individuals, regardless of race, gender, or immigration status. It means building alliances across communities to fight for a world where everyone has the opportunity to live with dignity and respect.

Leaders who propagate hate and division must be held accountable for their words and actions. The fight against racism, xenophobia, and misogyny is not just a matter of political disagreement; it is about the fundamental rights and humanity of those who are targeted by these narratives. They have a responsibility to challenge these views and to support one another in the ongoing struggle for a more just and equitable society.

The recent debate has underscored the importance of remaining vigilant and proactive in the fight against dehumanizing rhetoric and policies. When leaders use their platforms to spread hate, it is up to people to push back and advocate for a world where all individuals are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. In supporting Haitians, Black people, women, and all marginalized groups, is an affirmation of a commitment to justice, unity, and equality for all.

Keywords (without commas):
Donald Trump dehumanization Haitians Black Caribbean immigrants systemic racism Black and Brown solidarity racism misogyny xenophobia Trump rhetoric dog-eating stereotype marginalized communities