Imagine hearing that people from halfway across the world—who’ve never set foot in your community—are about to move into your state under a refugee program.
That’s exactly what’s happening in Alabama, and the internet is buzzing after a clip featuring local residents went viral.
Recently, a group of 49 white South Africans, identifying as Afrikaners, arrived in the U.S. under a resettlement plan started during Donald Trump’s presidency.
Their final destination? The American South—specifically, Alabama.
Their reason? They claim they’re being persecuted back home because of their race.
“Alabama? Lord Help Them”: Residents Sound Off
In a now-viral video posted on X (formerly Twitter), two Black women from Alabama don’t hold back their thoughts on the situation.
One of them exclaims:
“Alabama? Lord help them.
They better not talk to these people, they better not run into Black people, or you’ll be missing. Pray for them.”
It was a mix of humor, disbelief, and deep social commentary wrapped in one blunt message.
Social Media Reactions Pour In
The clip sparked a range of reactions in the comments section.
Some users expressed concern, others frustration, and a few had practical suggestions.
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@itsjustNiecy__ didn’t mince words:
“Should they come and try that disrespectful stuff here—may they be met with the energy of the ancestors here.” -
@broussard52 seemed confident:
“They won’t like Alabama, can tell you that right now.” -
@0hhAudie offered a different perspective:
“Good, I will hire them on my farm!”
Local Writer Criticizes the Process
An opinion columnist from Al.com chimed in with strong words about how the Afrikaner newcomers were fast-tracked through the immigration process.
They wrote:
“Y’all shouldn’t be here.
Y’all shouldn’t have been able to skip the line… over tens of thousands of people truly fleeing danger.
This wasn’t right.”
The sentiment is clear—many Americans feel the process was unfair to other refugees from around the world who’ve spent years waiting for a chance to start over.
NGO and Church Groups Voice Discomfort
The NGO Inspiritus, which has a history of helping refugees from war-torn regions, is now assisting the Afrikaner families.
But even within their own ranks, there’s discomfort.
An employment specialist told Al.com:
“It feels disrespectful to the people we normally help—those fleeing war, violence, and forced displacement—to give priority to this group.”
And it’s not just NGOs feeling uneasy.
The Episcopal Church, originally involved in helping the resettlement effort, has since backed away.
Their leader, Bishop Sean Rowe, didn’t hold back:
“It’s been painful to watch one group—chosen in a highly unusual way—receive special treatment, while others wait in dangerous conditions for years.”
So… How Will This All Play Out?
It’s a cultural collision in the making—Afrikaner families adjusting to life in Alabama, and Alabamians coming to terms with a controversial refugee decision that many feel skipped over fairness and equity.
With rising tensions and mixed reactions, it’s clear the story is just beginning.