Win Butler & other musicians respond to Trump's "shithole countries" comments
As you are probably aware, President Trump apparently made some controversial comments in a recent White House meeting in the Oval Office. According to The Washington Post, several of those briefed on the meeting recalled Trump asking, “Why are we having all these people from shithole countries come here?” while discussing a bipartisan immigration deal. Trump specifically singled out immigrants from Haiti, saying “Why do we need more Haitians? Take them out.”
Not suprisingly, Trump’s comments were met with heavy criticism and condemnation by many. Arcade Fire’s Win Butler, who notably advocates for Haitian relief and charity, responded to Trump’s remarks on Twitter. Win tweeted, “Trump’s comments about Haiti reflect nothing on the amazing country, and only on his own racism and xenophobia.” Read his full tweet below:
https://twitter.com/DJWindows98/status/951657739687743488
Many other musicians, including rappers Lupe Fiasco, Chuck D, and El-P have also tweeted their own responses to the President’s remarks. Read those below:
Why is this fucking guy still president??!! Jesus Christ he ain’t shit…WTF…
— CHECKIN’ Out Now! (@LupeFiasco) January 12, 2018
Damn …I said All what I said earlier and never heard what #trumpotus saïd today. Wtf ? And some had nerve to come at me today about his fuckery. Gtfoh before I go @TalibKweli on you
— Chuck D (@MrChuckD) January 12, 2018
https://twitter.com/therealelp/status/951924011788726273
In response to the backlash, President Trump took to Twitter (as he usually does), and denied using “tough” language during the meeting. He went on to say that he had “a wonderful relationship with Haitians.” Read his response below:
The language used by me at the DACA meeting was tough, but this was not the language used. What was really tough was the outlandish proposal made – a big setback for DACA!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 12, 2018
Never said anything derogatory about Haitians other than Haiti is, obviously, a very poor and troubled country. Never said “take them out.” Made up by Dems. I have a wonderful relationship with Haitians. Probably should record future meetings – unfortunately, no trust!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 12, 2018
Despite Trump’s tweets denying these comments, NBC reports Illinois senator Dick Durbin has confirmed Trump’s remarks, and the media’s reporting was “accurate.”