Flyers distributed at migrant camp highlight the divisive impact of the border on US politics

The Resource Center Matamoros in northeastern Mexico has found itself at the center of a controversy after flyers urging migrants to vote for President Joe Biden were discovered at its shelter. The Spanish-language flyers, which contained errors in spelling and grammar, instructed migrants to vote illegally for Biden once they arrived in the U.S. Despite the flyers bearing the organization’s logo, founder Gaby Zavala denied any involvement and stated that the organization does not encourage immigrants to register to vote or cast ballots in the U.S.

The origin of the flyers remains unknown, but they quickly spread online, leading to accusations and threats against the Resource Center Matamoros. The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, shared images and videos of the flyers, alleging that they were an attempt to prey on unsophisticated migrants and influence the election. However, the Heritage Foundation did not provide any evidence linking the organization to the flyers.

The claims surrounding the flyers have escalated into a political debate, with Republicans raising the issue during a congressional hearing with Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. The episode highlights how quickly misinformation can spread and impact the public discourse, especially in the context of the ongoing migrant surge at the border.

As the controversy unfolds, it underscores the importance of verifying information before making accusations or drawing conclusions. The Resource Center Matamoros and other humanitarian organizations continue to provide support to migrants in need, despite facing unwarranted scrutiny and threats.