Dominican and Haitian social groups hold government responsible for Friusa march

Santo Domingo.- 22 organizations from the Dominican Republic and Haiti have condemned the March 30 march in Hoyo de Friusa as a xenophobic act that promotes racial hatred and intimidates Haitian workers in the area. These organizations call the march a direct threat to immigrant safety and warn against the harassment, extortion, and violence that Haitian workers, particularly in Uvero Alto, Bávaro, Cap Cana, Verón, and Punta Cana, face daily from immigration agents, police, and military personnel.

The groups accused far-right organizations and influencers of organizing an armed march with the support of political leaders, notably Trujillo supporters, and stated that the Dominican government bears responsibility for any resulting violence. They demand that President Abinader stop encouraging racist speech and take action to protect the immigrant community.

In a joint statement, the organizations highlighted the murder of Pierre Presnor on March 23 by Héctor Ramírez Pérez in Uvero Alto, calling for justice and the release of six Haitian workers wrongfully detained after the incident. They also criticized the Ministry of Labor for failing to address labor rights violations and the exploitation of immigrant workers.

The groups consider the planned march a provocation, emphasizing that it is illegal, as its organizers, including influencer Esmerlin Santiago Matías (Alofoke), have called for attendees to carry firearms. They also accuse the Old Dominican Order of engaging in violent actions, including kidnapping Haitians, and being linked to paramilitary activities and the National Police.

The organizations are urging the government to halt the march and prevent what they warn could be a tragic event with widespread consequences. The statement was signed by human rights and women’s groups, labor organizations, and Haitian solidarity associations, all united in their call for an end to anti-Haitian violence and the protection of migrant workers’ rights.