New York State Assemblywoman Kimberly Jean-Pierre (D-Babylon) today joined local leaders in denouncing the latest remarks made by President Trump regarding immigrants, when he questioned why the United States welcomes immigrants from “shithole countries.” According to several people briefed on the meeting, the President was referring to protections for immigrants hailing from Haiti, El Salvador and African countries.

“As the daughter of Haitian immigrants and as a proud American, I am appalled by the President’s despicable comments about immigrants from certain countries, including Haiti,” said Jean-Pierre. “His remarks are blatantly racist, showing yet again that he truly believes that some folks aren’t worthy of a shot at the American Dream. Today, while Haitian-Americans mourn the eight-year anniversary of the devastating Haiti Earthquake, our President continues to reveal his naivety and lack of empathy as he litters our discourse with disgusting rhetoric.”

Suffolk County Presiding Officer DuWayne Gregory said: “It is extremely disappointing that the President of the United States continues to be a divider in his rhetoric instead of being a voice to unite the country. A country divided cannot be strong. All people of reasonable minds who love this country must rise in opposition to this form of bigotry.”

Brookhaven Town Councilwoman Valerie M. Cartright said: “Like many parts of our own great country, Haiti has endured much suffering in recent years due to natural disasters and disease. The Haitian people deserve compassion and support from the United States, not hate and discrimination. As a Haitian-American elected official, it saddens and angers me that our President could make such disparaging remarks about Haiti and African nations. It is unfortunate that bigotry towards people of color still exists in this country; it is a tragedy and a disgrace that it exists in our White House.”

Ketlie Chrispin, President of Haitian Americans United for Change Inc., said: “I am so deeply upset about Trump and his racist comments. His timing proves his ignorance. We should never have to hear condescending racist remarks, but moreover one day before the anniversary of the earthquake.”

Trump’s remarks came one day before the eight-year anniversary of the 2010 Haiti Earthquake, which killed more than 100,000 Haitians. Jean-Pierre recognizes the hard work that immigrants put in every day to build a better life for themselves and their families, and she is committed to continuing to fight for immigrant rights in the New York State Assembly.