Arcade Fire at Madison Square Garden
Photo by Greg Cristman

Win Butler & other musicians respond to Trump's "shithole countries" comments

Arcade Fire at Madison Square Garden
Arcade Fire at Madison Square Garden (more by Greg Cristman)

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:

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:

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.”