A Viral Anti-Immigrant Poster Stirs Fear and Uncertainty in Scranton, Pennsylvania
Scranton, PA – A viral social media message calling for volunteers to report undocumented immigrants has ignited controversy and heightened anxieties within the city’s Hispanic community. The poster, circulated anonymously on Facebook, featured the words "Report illegal aliens" in bold black letters, along with legitimate contact information for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). However, the poster lacked any official government markings, raising questions about its origins and purpose. Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti confirmed that the flyer is not unique to Scranton, identifying it as a stock image circulating online in various cities across the country. While a regional ICE spokesperson, hampered by a media communication "stand-down" order, denied any agency involvement with the flyer, the incident underscores the rising tensions surrounding immigration enforcement under the newly inaugurated Trump administration.
The poster’s appearance coincides with President Trump’s promises of strengthened immigration policies, including increased deportations and potential legal action against local officials who obstruct these efforts. This has fueled apprehension among members of Scranton’s Hispanic community, who view the flyer as a direct manifestation of the fear-mongering permeating the nation. Mayor Cognetti condemned the message, emphasizing the importance of community and mutual support as core Scranton values, in contrast to the divisive rhetoric of the poster. She also noted unconfirmed reports of unmarked vehicles converging on neighborhoods in Scranton and Wilkes-Barre, further exacerbating community concerns. While the ICE spokesperson could not comment on specific operations, Cognetti urged vigilance against misinformation and pledged to monitor any incidents resembling racial profiling or hate crimes.
Cognetti condemned the poster’s apparent intent to instill fear, emphasizing that such tactics run counter to Scranton’s foundation of community and mutual support. She reiterated the city’s focus on addressing tangible issues, such as economic struggles and infrastructure improvements, instead of engaging in actions that needlessly harm others. The mayor confirmed that Scranton police are not an arm of ICE and that the city’s daily operations remain centered on improving the quality of life for its residents. Cognetti acknowledged the need to interpret and adapt to changing federal regulations, but stressed that the city’s primary concern is the well-being of its citizens. She also vowed to continue working with legal counsel and partner organizations to understand the implications of federal orders and to address any actions intended to intimidate residents.
The anonymous poster’s author called for volunteers to gather in the parking lot of Alfredo’s Cafe in South Scranton. However, despite frigid temperatures, no significant turnout materialized. The popular restaurant publicly disavowed any connection to the poster or hate groups, emphasizing their commitment to a welcoming and inclusive environment. They also confirmed that they had contacted authorities about the unauthorized use of their private property. The restaurant’s Facebook post denouncing the message received widespread community support and praise.
While the rally proved to be a bust, the fear among members of Scranton’s Hispanic community remained palpable. WVIA reporters encountered reluctance from local business owners in South Scranton, a neighborhood with a growing Hispanic population, to speak openly about their reactions to the poster and the Trump administration’s immigration policies. A prevailing sense of fear and apprehension made many hesitant to share their thoughts, highlighting the chilling effect of the current political climate. This apprehension extended beyond Scranton, as similar reluctance was observed in businesses across Lackawanna and Luzerne counties.
The Scranton School District, serving a diverse student body speaking dozens of languages, is actively compiling resources to support students and families affected by the immigration debate. The district is reviewing its policies, consulting with legal counsel, and engaging with behavioral and mental health services to address concerns and provide appropriate assistance. A dedicated contact person has been designated on the district’s website to address immigration-related questions and anxieties. Meanwhile, the Diocese of Scranton is examining the implications of the Trump administration’s new policies, which reportedly allow federal agents to access churches and schools while pursuing undocumented immigrants. The diocese referenced a statement by Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, expressing deep concern about the potential negative consequences of these policies, particularly for vulnerable populations. The Archbishop emphasized the Catholic Church’s non-partisan stance and its unwavering commitment to core teachings, urging reconsideration of actions that disregard human dignity.