KKK Fliers in Kentucky Order Immigrants to Leave, Hurl Racist Rhetoric
Residents of eastern Kentucky were left reeling after discovering that multiple homes and businesses in the region received fliers from the Ku Klux Klan, calling for immigrants to “leave now” and peddling racist and xenophobic ideology.
The fliers, which appeared around midday on Tuesday, bore the image of a white cross and a border patrol logo, and featured the written message, “To all you foreigners: Leave now!” The fliers were accompanied by a crude drawing of a person with a turban and a caption that read, “We don’t want no terrorists here!”
The ominous and threatening flyers have been condemned by local officials and community leaders, who have called for increased vigilance and support for the state’s immigrant communities. “This is a disturbing and hateful message,” said Sheriff John Napier, “And we won’t stand for it in our community.”
The emergence of the fliers comes as a shock to many in the community, where diversity has been celebrated and welcomed. “We’re a community that values inclusivity, respect, and understanding,” said Dr. Maria Sanchez, chair of the Berry College’s Diversity and Inclusion committee. “To see something like this appears is just heartbreaking.”
This is not the first time that the KKK has targeted immigrants in the region. In 2017, similar fliers were distributed in southwestern Virginia, stoking fears and concerns among the local Hispanic population. Tuesday’s incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of hate and intolerance, and the need for continued education, empathy, and unity.
As the community comes together to address this incident, a sense of unease has settled in. “We need to work together to create a more just and fair society, where everyone feels welcome and safe,” said Dr. Sanchez. “This is a moment for all of us to reflect on the values we hold dear and to stand in solidarity with our immigrant neighbors.”