The first group of white South Africans granted refugee status by Donald Trump’s administration has arrived in the United States, igniting a heated debate within South Africa. The US President controversially labeled the Afrikaners, a minority group descended primarily from Dutch colonists, as victims of a “genocide.” This declaration has raised eyebrows and fueled discussions about race relations and historical injustices in the region.
Upon their arrival at Dulles International Airport outside Washington, D.C., the group was greeted by notable figures including US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau and Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security Troy Edgar. Many of the newcomers were handed American flags to wave as a symbol of their new beginning. Reports from Reuters indicated that the group consisted of 59 adults and children, while the Associated Press cited a lower figure of 49.
During the reception, Landau expressed his delight, stating, “It is such an honour for us to receive you here today … it makes me so happy to see you with our flag in your hands.” He shared a personal story about his father, who fled Europe during Hitler's regime, emphasizing the importance of standing against persecution based on race. Landau further asserted, “We’re sending a clear message that the United States really rejects the egregious persecution of people on the basis of race in South Africa.”
On the same day, Trump’s administration concluded legal protections that had previously shielded Afghans from deportation, citing an improved security situation under the Taliban. Landau mentioned that one of the reasons for prioritizing the resettlement of Afrikaners over Afghans was their perceived ability to assimilate easily into American society.
In January, Trump had suspended the US refugee settlement program, leaving over 100,000 individuals approved for resettlement in limbo. However, in February, he signed an executive order that mandated officials to grant refugee status to Afrikaners, a group historically associated with the oppressive regime during apartheid. Trump infamously remarked, “It’s a genocide that’s taking place,” when questioned about the prioritization of white South Africans over other victims of conflict and famine across the continent. This statement echoed a far-right conspiracy theory, which has gained traction among certain circles, including those surrounding his South African-born adviser, Elon Musk.
In response to these developments, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa articulated his concerns during a conference in Ivory Coast. He revealed that he had communicated with Trump, asserting that the US President had been misinformed about the discrimination faced by white South Africans. Ramaphosa stated, “We think that the American government has got the wrong end of the stick here, but we’ll continue talking to them.”
Statistical data highlights the stark economic disparities in South Africa, where white South Africans typically possess 20 times the wealth of their Black counterparts. The unemployment rate stands at a staggering 46.1% for Black South Africans compared to just 9.2% for white individuals.
Critics have voiced strong opposition to the resettlement of Afrikaners. Laura Thompson Osuri, the executive director of Homes Not Borders, a refugee care nonprofit based in Washington, held a sign at the airport reading: “Refugee. Noun. A person who has been forced to leave his or her country due to persecution, war, or violence. Afrikaners are not refugees.” Osuri criticized the policy, suggesting it was a demonstration of selective welcome based on racial identity.
Democratic leaders also condemned the resettlement initiative. Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen described the Trump administration's actions as a manifestation of a “global apartheid policy,” which he deemed an affront to the core values of the nation.
In a notable response to the situation, the Episcopal Church announced it would terminate its long-standing collaboration with the US government in resettling refugees. This decision was made after they were asked to assist with the resettlement of white South Africans, citing their commitment to racial justice and reconciliation as guiding principles.
This unfolding situation continues to evoke strong reactions and raises vital questions about immigration policies, racial equity, and historical accountability, both in the United States and South Africa.
