Ignorant TikTok accuses Native American children on field trip of being illegal immigrants, sparking outrage

Now Deleted TikTok Video featuring an Arizona “content creator” falsely accusing school-aged Native Americans of being illegal immigrants has gone viral, sparking outrage and safety concerns. An incident that led to threats against a local school in Flagstaff, Arizona, sparked a conversation about racism, misinformation and community accountability.

Controversial video on TikTok

When the incident occurred, students belonging to Star School near Flagstaff were participating in a wellness walk on Navajo land. TikToker, later identified as Aimee Hawkinspublished a now-deleted video in which he accuses children of being immigrants thrown into the desert. She claimed they were speaking “a foreign language” and suggested contacting her husband, stating, “It doesn’t look good.”

The video quickly gained attention, leading to hateful comments online and threats against the school. Authorities responded by introducing a soft lockdown and canceling after-school activities for children’s safety. According to the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office, the investigation is ongoing and Hawkins has been contacted regarding the incident.

Ignorance or fearmongering?

In another movieHawkins admitted she had no idea there was a Navajo community, also known as Diné, living in the area. She claimed that she mistook the children’s use of the Navajo language for something “foreign”. Hawkins justified her initial reaction by citing concerns about border security in Arizona, saying: “It’s sad that we live in a time where you immediately feel fear in your heart. Unfortunately, this is the world we live in.”

Critics pointed out the blatant irony in Hawkins’ statements, considering that 24.5% of Flagstaff’s population is American Indian and Alaska Native. Moreover, the Navajo lands, which include parts of Arizona, Utah and New Mexico, are home to the largest Native American reservation in the United States. TikTok user Che Jim emphasized, “These were Native American children on their ancestral land, in their sacred space, on a wellness walk.”

Community reaction and reaction

Hawkins’ video not only endangered children, but also sparked outrage in the Flagstaff community. Jim criticized her film’s fear-inducing tone, noting that it focuses on immigration debates due to Arizona’s proximity to Mexico. “It wasn’t about border security; it was gross ignorance and unjustified fear,” he said.

Star School staff responded to the incident in a statement, expressing concern for the children’s safety and calling on the community to help mitigate the potential harm caused by the widespread distribution of the video.

Identity revealed: the woman behind the video

Hawkins, known on TikTok as @canvas.tent.queen, was identified as a staunch Trump supporter and conservative who lives in a tent near Flagstaff. Her actions drew criticism even from fellow Republicans, with some distancing themselves from her behavior. AND post in the article “What’s up, Flagpole?” The Facebook group called on the local community to address Hawkins’ actions, emphasizing the need to protect children and hold her accountable.

Despite calls to remove her videos, Hawkins initially refused. However, her TikTok account has since been demonetized and deleted. TikToker Mercedes Chandlerwho helped draw attention to the incident, said: “Did you think you could get away with it? We imposed liability on you because you did not agree to it.”

Disinformation and community accountability

Hawkins’ actions sparked a broader discussion about the dangers of disinformation. Facebook user Ruth Lee-Little pointed out that Hawkins misled her followers by claiming she was in a remote desert area when she was actually near Bushmaster Park in Flagstaff, where the school is located. “It’s not about race, it’s about responsibility,” Lee-Little said. “Hawkins’ lies endangered students and caused unnecessary fear.”

The incident highlighted the ongoing challenges facing indigenous communities, ranging from ignorance to systemic racism. As investigations continue, local leaders and activists are emphasizing the importance of education and responsibility to prevent similar incidents in the future. Star School remains committed to ensuring the safety of its students while calling for unity and understanding within the community.