The Trump administration is preparing to offer white South African refugees, also known as Afrikaners, specially curated "welcome bags" upon their arrival in the United States. These bags, which are not standard for refugees entering the U.S., reportedly include an Android tablet, an American flag, copies of foundational American documents, and literature that allegedly downplays slavery's role in U.S. history and criticizes South Africa's government for favoring the Black population.
This initiative continues a pattern established by the administration, which has previously prioritized immigration for Afrikaners while significantly restricting admissions for refugees from other nations, often those facing more dire circumstances. In 2025, the administration halted refugee admissions from the rest of the world to allow in dozens of Afrikaners, citing a narrative of "genocide." Later, the U.S. refugee cap was set at 7,500, with a majority being white South Africans. In May, this cap was increased by 10,000 to accommodate more Afrikaner immigrants.
While South Africa does experience violence, there is no evidence to support the claim, often made by President Trump, that Afrikaners or white farmers are specifically targeted for persecution based on their race. Notably, Black South Africans, who also face violence, are not being afforded the same access to refugee status in the U.S.
The narrative of a "genocide" against white South Africans has roots in white nationalist conspiracy theories on the political right. The New York Times published recent reports detailing the extent of the administration's efforts to facilitate the arrival and integration of Afrikaner refugees.