Far-Right “God’s Army” Rally at Texas Border Raises Alarms
Over the past weekend, a far-right convoy known as “God’s Army” held rallies in three Texas border towns, reigniting discussions about escalating tensions surrounding immigration policy. With a caravan of 100 vehicles, the gathering featured a mix of individuals promoting unsubstantiated claims and conspiracy theories. Their speeches utilized provocative language, depicting asylum-seeking migrants as invaders.
Far-Right “God’s Army” Forms at Texas Border
Over the weekend, a far-right convoy, self-described as “God’s army,” gathered near the southern border of Texas to voice their opposition to what they perceive as an “invasion” of migrants. This assembly occurred against the backdrop of mounting tensions between Texas Governor Greg Abbott and the federal government regarding immigration policies in Eagle Pass, Texas.
The convoy, spearheaded by organizers notorious for disseminating election misinformation, QAnon conspiracy theories, and anti-vaccine rhetoric, asserted that Texas is at the forefront of defending freedom and state rights. Republican congressman Keith Self addressed the rally attendees in Quemado, emphasizing Texas’s constitutional prerogative to close its borders if the federal government fails to act, as reported.
An Attraction for Radical Far-Right Groups
The convoy passing through Eagle Pass drew various far-right groups, including Christian nationalists, supporters of former President Donald Trump, participants in the January 6th U.S. Capitol insurrection, followers of the QAnon conspiracy theory, and militia groups. During the event, participants expressed anti-government conspiracy theories and used dehumanizing language towards migrants.
Mark McCloskey, known for brandishing firearms at Black Lives Matter protesters in 2020, alleged a conspiracy between the government and drug cartels involved in child trafficking. He stated, “These people are evil, they are pedophiles, they’re monsters, they run our government, they hate us, they think they know better than us.” McCloskey characterized the “forces” aiming to dismantle the “republic” as the “genuine forces of evil” who oppose “freedom.”
Speakers Espouse Anti-Government and Dehumanizing Rhetoric
The convoy featured speakers who propagated anti-government conspiracy theories and employed dehumanizing language when referring to migrants. According to University of Michigan professor Libby Hemphill, employing dehumanizing rhetoric such as likening individuals to animals or trash is an extremist tactic aimed at diminishing their humanity, thereby making them more susceptible to harm.
The speakers’ objective was to portray migrants as a threat, thereby justifying the need for stringent policies. During the event, baseless theories such as QAnon and claims of election fraud were promoted. Additionally, political opponents were demonized, and fears of tyranny and moral decay were stoked in an attempt to garner support for their cause.
Rallying Against Migrant “Invasion” Amid Abbott-Biden Tensions
During a rally in Quemado, Texas, Congressman Keith Self passionately addressed supporters, emphasizing the state’s pivotal role in defending freedom and asserting its rights to secure its borders if necessary. He highlighted Texas’s stance as being at the forefront of this battle for constitutional rights.
Sheriff Brad Coe of Kinney County echoed these sentiments, referring to the influx of asylum-seekers across the border as a significant concern amounting to what he termed a “flat-out invasion.” He emphasized the importance of truth and allegiance to both God and the Constitution, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Prominent Figures Stoke Fears of Child Trafficking
McCloskey made bold accusations, alleging a conspiracy involving government officials and drug cartels in child trafficking. He described them as “evil,” “pedophiles,” and “monsters,” claiming they control our government and harbor contempt for the public. Such rhetoric is concerning and dangerous, especially when it targets marginalized groups.
Promoting unfounded conspiracy theories and using dehumanizing language is irresponsible, particularly for public figures like McCloskey and Coe, who wield significant influence. They should be held accountable for spreading misinformation and fostering fear and paranoia.
Experts Warn of Extremist Tactics to Justify Harm
According to experts, the recent “God’s Army” rally at the Texas border utilized extremist tactics aimed at dehumanizing migrants and instigating fear. The convoy propagated unfounded conspiracy theories and labeled asylum-seekers as “invaders.”
The inflammatory rhetoric and dissemination of false information serve to rationalize harmful policies and actions targeting vulnerable groups. During the rally, speakers resorted to dehumanizing language when referring to migrants, likening them to “animals” and “trash.” The underlying objective of such discourse is to justify mistreatment against these groups.
Promotion of Conspiracy Theories
Mark McCloskey, known for brandishing firearms at Black Lives Matter protesters, made headlines again by spreading outlandish conspiracy theories during the rally. Among his claims were allegations of government involvement in child trafficking and the sinister agenda of establishing a “single-world socialist government” to eradicate freedom.
Sheriff Brad Coe took a divisive stance, framing the issue as a conflict between Christians and the government. He emphasized the importance of Christians speaking the truth, asserting loyalty to God and the Constitution over the government. Such rhetoric fosters an “us versus them” mindset, portraying the government as an adversary to Christian principles and liberty.
Human Dignity Must Come First
The convoy known as “God’s Army,” which gathered at the Texas border, promoted rhetoric that dehumanized migrants and disseminated misinformation. Despite labeling the situation as an “invasion,” it’s crucial to acknowledge the broader context, which reveals that many asylum seekers are fleeing violence and instability. What’s needed is a rational conversation about this complex issue.
Effective solutions must uphold human dignity while also addressing genuine border security concerns. Moving forward, it’s essential to recognize the humanity in all individuals, rather than resorting to extremist conspiracy theories or demagoguery.
Christian Nationalist and Militia Groups Join Convoy
Christian nationalists perceive the United States as a nation rooted in Christianity, advocating for its prioritization in American law and society. Mark McCloskey, known for brandishing firearms at Black Lives Matter protesters in 2020, addressed a gathering and disseminated misinformation alleging a conspiracy involving the government and cartels in child trafficking.
Sheriff Brad Coe, who previously labeled migrant border crossings as “a flat-out invasion,” also spoke at the event. Coe emphasized the importance of truth-telling for Christians, noting its potential threat to those in positions of authority. He stated, “As Christians, we’re called to speak the truth, and that’s something that, if you’re trying to control people, is very dangerous to those in power.”