Controversial Fundraiser Sparks Debate on Immigration

A Controversial Fundraiser

A fundraiser amassed over $80,000 for a woman seen in a viral video telling Muslims to leave Texas. In the video, she stated, “You’re really not welcome in this state or this country.” She emphasized the U.S. as a “Christian country,” urging Muslims to “go back to your Islamic country.” Online responses to the video and fundraiser show deep division.

Significance and Public Reaction

This incident and its reception highlight the ongoing U.S. immigration debate. Polls show this topic consistently concerns many Americans. It remains significant in national discourse.

Fundraiser Details

The fundraiser and associated social media posts identify the woman, though Newsweek has not verified her identity. The GiveSendGo page claims she was doxxed, fired, and “canceled.” Newsweek has not confirmed these claims. The page states she went viral after “confronting” two women at an H-E-B store in Conroe, Texas, resulting in “lost income, threats, and the mob coming for her holistic practice.” As of Monday, the fundraiser reached over $84,000, nearing its $100,000 goal.

Organizer and Social Media Influence

Tom Hennessey started the fundraiser. An account under his name with 93,000 followers on X provides updates on the fundraiser. This account has shared racially charged content. Florida filmmaker Michael McWhorter, known as TizzyEnt, claimed to identify the woman by comparing her jewelry in the video to a past photo. He stated she was a massage therapist in Conroe.

Employment Status

Massage Forest in Conroe announced a separation from an employee without naming them. Newsweek sought clarification from the business, which faced negative reviews mentioning the viral incident. “Unfortunately the incident involving this employee was not the first but it was final one,” the business stated. They emphasize respecting free opinion but acted due to business impact.

The business received mixed reviews; some criticized their decision, while others supported it. A therapist with a similarly named practice clarified no association with the woman from the video. Their statement emphasized commitment to inclusivity, opposing racism and discrimination.

Changing American Views on Immigration

Americans are rapidly changing their views on immigration. Recent figures show 46% believe immigration benefits the U.S., rising from 31% a year ago. Strict policies face growing opposition, with half of Americans considering current enforcement too harsh. However, the nation remains divided; about a quarter think immigration worsens the country.

For further context, contact Newsweek editors John Fitzpatrick and Gray R. Thomas.