HOUSTON – Community leaders are calling out Houston Mayor John Whitmire for his recent “offensive” remarks about the Gulfton area and are demanding an apology, according to a news release.
More than 20 community leaders and organizations have released a letter for Mayor Whitmire to retract his “offensive remarks about the Gulfton neighborhood and apologize to its residents,” the release read.
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Whitmire reportedly described Gulfton as a community largely composed of “undocumented” immigrants who are uninterested in accessing amenities like the Galleria.
Whitmire reportedly took issue with the METRONext BRT projects, which would increase bus service in Gulfton and also fund some street improvements, according to Houston Landing.
Following his news conference, the mayor questioned whether Gulfton residents actually want access to an area like the Galleria, stating:
“They’re largely undocumented immigrants. They just want basic services. They don’t want to be part of the Galleria,” Whitmire said. “You think they’re going to be welcome in the Galleria?”
“These comments have been widely condemned as xenophobic and out of touch with the reality of this vibrant, diverse community,” the release from community organizations stated.
Gulfton is described as home to residents from Latin America, Africa, West Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia, with over 50 languages spoken.
The coalition of community leaders and organizations is demanding Mayor Whitmire do the following:
- Retract his remarks about Gulfton.
- Issue a public apology to Gulfton residents.
- Recognize the inherent value and rights of all Houstonians.
- Acknowledge the legitimacy of community advocates and city council members.
“Mayor Whitmire’s comments are an affront to all Houstonians who believe in an inclusive and equitable city,” said Daniel Cohen, Chair of Indivisible Houston. “We need leadership that embraces all communities, not one that demeans and marginalizes them.”
The mayor’s office has responded to KPRC 2 about Whitmire comments and dealing with the open letter:
“My support for Gulfton as a senator and now as mayor is well established. I am partnering with Harris County Commissioner Briones and other stakeholders.”
“We are listening to residents and will make a positive difference in Gulfton. Metro has a plan for the area. It is in the process of designing a data-driven strategy to improve mobility, giving people better access to reach services at Baker Ripley and Legacy Clinic.”
READ THE FULL LETTER FROM COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS BELOW: