Activists demand apology after Houston mayor’s comments on Gulfton community: ‘We expect better’

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A coalition of community groups is calling on Houston Mayor John Whitmire to apologize for comments he made last month regarding the immigrant community in the Gulfton neighborhood.

Twenty-eight community activists, including those representing undocumented immigrants, signed a letter criticizing Whitmire’s remarks about rapid transit in Gulfton. They stated that his comments “reveal a shocking level of ignorance and prejudice.”

The nonprofit newsroom Houston Public Landing quoted the mayor as saying the Gulfton population is largely undocumented and in need of basic services.

“I don’t think what the mayor has to say about immigrants, especially undocumented immigrants, is reflective of our values as Houstonians,” said Jasmine Khadem Gonzalez. “I want to see the mayor do better.”

City Council Member Edward Pollard also criticized the mayor’s comments last month. Although Whitmire addressed Pollard’s concerns, it wasn’t enough for those who signed the open letter, who are demanding a retraction and an apology.

“We expect better. We’d like to see reflection. We’d like to see an apology,” said community activist Daniel J. Cohen.

Maria Hernandez, who assists undocumented immigrants, added, “Just because we have no status and we are migrants or refugees, it doesn’t mean that we don’t deserve better.”

In a statement to, Mayor Whitmire wrote:

“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.”

Tammy Rodriguez, who has advocated for the Gulfton community for three decades, said she knows the mayor means well, even if she disagreed with his choice of words.

“Knowing him and taking him at face value, I know his heart is in the community,” Rodriguez said. “I have every confidence in the world that we’re going to get what the community wants.”

Metro Chair Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock also issued a statement to, saying:

“Mayor Whitmire has immediately addressed crucial needs in Gulfton—needs that existed years before he came into office. His administration is coordinating with METRO and Harris County Commissioner Lesley Briones’ office to develop and implement a revitalization plan that is evidence-based and sustainable. Mayor Whitmire has been actively engaging with Gulfton residents and stakeholders, and we are all working together to bring improvements in public safety, transit, and drainage. METRO is excited to participate in revitalizing this diverse community. We are focused on supporting Gulfton residents and will not let special interests derail our progress.”

Whitmire has not directly responded to the letter. Those who signed it hope to meet with him to discuss their concerns face-to-face.