John,

In recent years, the so-called Great Replacement Theory has gained increased attention, as high-profile acts of violence have been motivated in part by its rhetoric. Additionally, several prominent public figures have espoused rhetoric that aligns with the Great Replacement Theory’s claims.

Though we may wish we could ignore or dismiss extremist conspiracy theories, the best way to empower ourselves to fight back against them is to learn to identify and call out this false, dangerous, and extremist rhetoric.

Learn more with the Forum’s in-depth information and resources on the Great Replacement Theory.

The so-called Great Replacement Theory falsely claims that welcoming immigration policies are part of a plot to undermine the cultural and political power of white people in the U.S. and Europe. Though the conspiracy theory was propagated by a French author in 2012, its antecedents and precursors have long been present in the American debate on immigration.

Here’s what to watch for when discerning whether something you’re hearing or reading is influenced by the Great Replacement Theory.

Rhetoric of "invasion" or "conquest" — pitting nonwhite migrants against white people in the U.S. and Europe.
Language alluding to voter replacement — including the inaccurate assumption that voters of color will all vote a certain way.
Antisemitism — Great Replacement Theory can be found embedded in a web of xenophobic and racist conspiracy theories that claim Jewish elites are orchestrating a purported plot to "replace" white people.

To learn more about what you can do to push back against the Great Replacement Theory and misinformation, view our full explainer and resources now.

You have the power to push back against conspiracy theories. Here’s how:

Never spread misinformation

When you encounter information from an unverified source, misinformation, or conspiratorial rhetoric on social media or in the news, don’t share it. Sharing any message, even if your intention is to prove it false, only fuels its spread. Instead, share credible information you know is true. Amplify messages that speak out against conspiracy theories.

Engage in dialogue

Start conversations with your loved ones and friends to help them understand why the Great Replacement Theory is false. People who feel left behind by an ever-changing world are especially vulnerable to conspiratorial thinking. If you encounter someone perpetuating a conspiracy theory, show curiosity and ask questions. Even if you don’t instantly change minds, you may spark the process of broadening people’s perspectives, and you’ll inspire others to ask questions too.

Keep Learning

Look for fact-checked sources to learn more about the history of the Great Replacement Theory and related misinformation. The Forum’s explainer is one place to start. It can also be helpful to learn about the reasons people fall into conspiratorial thinking.

Get Involved

Support immigrants and refugees in your community by volunteering to help new Americans near you. Speak up in support of local and national policies that will make your community and our country a more welcoming place.

As friends of the Forum Bishop Mark J. Seitz and Pastor Alan Cross wrote in January, to push back against Great Replacement Theory is to strengthen the fabric of our communities and our nation as a whole:

The reality is that many of our families, churches, neighborhoods, schools, and towns are already composed of immigrants, and we are learning to live well together all across our country. The only

Thanks for all you do to combat misinformation in your community,

Becka Wall
Vice President of Digital Communications
National Immigration Forum