Albertville citizens met to discuss Pilgrim’s Pride busing situation

ALBERTVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — Citizens in Albertville met at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church Tuesday evening to discuss ongoing concerns with workers seen being bussed to and from the city.

“Then, we have to look and say, we have people come into our community that are not originally from our community,” Pastor David McMillen with the church said. “And so, how do we deal with that issue?”

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Albertville residents say they have been confused and frustrated since last week, but want to move forward.

“But, in this situation, what would you suggest for this group of people to do?” a resident asked.

Rumors and confusion are spreading across the city following questions of legitimacy regarding Haitian workers being bussed back to Albertville following their shift at Pilgrim’s Pride in Russellville.

The City of Albertville released a statement including words from Pilgrim’s Pride in an attempt to put citizens’ minds at ease.

“We want to make it abundantly clear that Albertville is not a sanctuary city…,” the statement said.

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The full statement addressing concerns can be accessed here.

In a statement on X, formerly Twitter, Wes Kitchens said a federal refugee program has incentivized migrants to move into different communities in Marshall County.

Haitian people in Albertville have allegedly been receiving threats. But, they emphasize the love that they have for the city and that all they want is peace.

“The Haitian American community is very scared, and some people are fearful,” Local Haitian Resident Jeff Lamour said. “Sunday, there was a guy chasing a Haitian guy with a truck and trying to hit him. And, we don’t need that right now. We need unity and prayers, we need love.”

It’s important to note that there were derogatory comments and accusations made at this meeting that News 19 is choosing not to share.

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