“Vermont Town Welcomes Afrikaner Refugees Amidst Policy Changes”

In Brattleboro, Vermont, a small town known for its welcoming spirit, a unique group of refugees has found a new home. Andre Marais and his family, along with 54 other Afrikaners, were part of a refugee resettlement program that brought them from South Africa to the United States. This decision came as a response to their dissatisfaction with the crime, corruption, and perceived discrimination against the white minority in their home country.

The resettlement program in Brattleboro was established in 2021 by local business leaders aiming to revitalize the town’s economy and diversify its predominantly white population. This initiative aligned with Vermont’s broader trend of welcoming refugees, including approximately 650 Afghans who moved to the area following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

The arrival of Afrikaners, however, has introduced a layer of complexity to Brattleboro’s refugee narrative. The Trump administration’s policy shift to admit Afrikaners, while suspending programs for other groups, has sparked discussions about the motivations and implications of such decisions. Joe Wiah, who runs the town’s resettlement program, acknowledged the delicate nature of these dynamics.

Despite these challenges, the community’s response has been largely positive. Paul Gallagher, cochair of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church Refugee Ministry, noted the community’s beautiful response in supporting the new arrivals. This spirit of hospitality reflects the biblical call to love and support one’s neighbor, as seen in Matthew 25:35, which speaks to providing for those in need.

As Brattleboro continues to navigate its role as a haven for diverse groups, the town’s experience underscores the importance of mercy, accountability, and justice in community-building efforts. The story of Brattleboro’s Afrikaner refugees serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for compassion and understanding in an ever-changing world.

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