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Anti-immigrant and white supremacist propaganda flyers linked to the Ku Klux Klan have appeared in multiple neighborhoods across Frankfort, Kentucky, prompting swift responses from local authorities and city leadership.
Residents in South Frankfort, Springhill, and Duckers neighborhoods discovered the hate-filled materials distributed overnight, a tactic similar to incidents reported last year in northern and central Kentucky communities.
South Frankfort resident Jo Rodriguez expressed her concern after finding the flyers. “I grew up first-generation American, so my whole life I had the fear of my mom being deported,” Rodriguez said. “It’s a terrifying way to grow up.”
The Frankfort Police Department has condemned the incident and launched an investigation, characterizing the distribution as “an appalling act of littering involving KKK propaganda.” In a public statement, the department emphasized it “does not tolerate hate in any form” and that the behavior “goes against the values of our community.”
Law enforcement officials are actively seeking community assistance to identify those responsible for distributing the materials. Residents living in affected neighborhoods who may have captured relevant footage on security or doorbell cameras are encouraged to contact the police department’s non-emergency line at 502-875-8582.
“Allowing the department to review any footage could provide the police department the opportunity to identify any individuals involved in this hateful act,” the statement continued, reaffirming their commitment to maintaining a “thriving and diverse community.”
Frankfort Mayor Layne Wilkerson also issued a strong condemnation through social media, stating that the hate-filled materials “do not reflect who we are as Frankfort residents or as Kentuckians.”
“I condemn, in the strongest possible terms, any attempt by hate groups to divide, intimidate, or spread fear among our neighbors,” Wilkerson wrote. “Frankfort is a city built on respect, compassion, and community. We are strongest when we stand together, when we choose unity over division, courage over fear, and love over hate.”
The mayor’s message emphasized that every Frankfort resident deserves safety and respect regardless of race, religion, or background, concluding with the declaration that “hate has no home here.”
For Rodriguez, the mayor’s response reinforced her decision to make Frankfort her home. “One thing I do know about my community and my neighborhood is that we are extremely tolerant, and there’s really never been a lot of hate,” she said. “That’s one thing I greatly love about living in Frankfort, Kentucky.”
This incident comes amid growing concerns nationally about the resurgence of hate group activities. According to tracking by civil rights organizations, white supremacist propaganda distribution has been increasing across the United States in recent years, often targeting diverse communities and college campuses.
Law enforcement officials face challenges when investigating such cases, as the distribution of materials alone may fall under protected speech, despite their hateful content. However, when combined with trespassing, littering, or intimidation, such activities can cross into illegal territory.
The Frankfort Police Department has indicated it will continue investigating the incident while maintaining community security. Local community organizations are also reportedly planning unity events in response to the propaganda, though specific details have not yet been announced.
Residents with information regarding the flyers are encouraged to contact local authorities through the provided non-emergency channels.
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8 Comments
It’s disheartening to see these tactics continue to be used, even in the face of widespread condemnation. We must remain vigilant and work tirelessly to promote tolerance and unity.
This is a troubling situation that requires a swift and firm response. I hope the police are able to identify the perpetrators and send a clear message that this kind of behavior will not be tolerated.
Agreed. These kinds of incidents can have a lasting impact on a community, so it’s crucial that the authorities act quickly and decisively.
These incidents are deeply disturbing and speak to the ongoing challenges we face in combating racism and extremism. I’m glad the authorities are taking it seriously and reaching out to the community for help.
This is a deeply disturbing incident. Spreading hate-filled propaganda is unacceptable and has no place in our society. I’m glad the police are taking it seriously and investigating.
I hope the police are able to identify those responsible and hold them accountable. This kind of behavior cannot be tolerated. Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected in their own neighborhood.
Growing up with the fear of deportation must have been incredibly difficult for that resident. No one should have to live in that kind of climate of fear and intolerance.
Absolutely. We need to stand up against these hateful groups and work to create more inclusive, welcoming communities for all.