This post is part of a series on the recipients of Press Forward’s Open Call on Closing Local Coverage Gaps. Read the series here.
In the midst of the already busy 2024 election season, The Haitian Times was thrust into the national spotlight following its coverage of false rumors about Haitians eating dogs in Springfield, Ohio—starting a challenging moment for the 25-year-old publication.
An editor was targeted at home in New York. A community forum in Springfield went online after officials couldn’t assure the journalists’ safety amidst bomb threats in the city. A reporter quit.
The staff found itself both covering the news and in the uncomfortable position of being a part of it. At the same time, staff members were trying to protect their own safety, in person and online, said Vania André, editor-in-chief. That meant protecting The Haitian Times website from hackers and safeguarding their reporters’ personal information online so that they can’t be targeted further.
“What was really alarming to our team was just how quickly this all happened,” André said.
The Haitian Times had been covering the growth of Haitian communities in the midwest, particularly in Springfield and Indianapolis, both telling the stories of migrations and looking at the challenges they faced in their new homes. Much of the Haitian Times’ coverage is explanatory, helping immigrants adjust to their new homes and find the necessary resources.
With Press Forward funding, the outlet will solidify its presence in the midwest, where residents still fear for their safety in the aftermath of the election.
“One thing that’s become very clear is that people in the community are very concerned about what’s happening nationally and how it’s affecting them locally,” André said.
Read the Times’ coverage and sign up for updates.
Image: Macollvie Neel, Special Projects Editor; Vania André, Editor in Chief; Garry Pierre-Pierre, Publisher; Cherrell Angervil, Brand and Audience Engagement Director pictured at Banboch Kreyol, a community festival organized by The Haitian Times.