Right-wing influencers have begun targeting Somali child care centers across the United States following a viral video alleging fraud in Minneapolis. The video, which falsely claimed widespread abuse of federal funds, has been debunked by official inspections showing these centers operate normally. Despite this, the video has incited harassment, threats, and intimidation, causing Somali-run centers to implement increased security measures. In San Diego, provider Samsam Khalif reported being frightened by individuals with cameras waiting outside her home-based center, prompting her to enhance security protocols. The targeting originated after influencer Nick Shirley accused Somali-run centers of fraud, leading to attempts by the Trump administration to freeze funding in Minnesota and other states. These false claims have fueled dehumanizing rhetoric against Somali immigrants, including insults and calls for deportation, despite the fact that most Somali-Americans are U.S. citizens. Activists and local officials have condemned the harassment, with Seattle’s mayor and Ohio’s governor publicly warning against intimidation and emphasizing that asking questions or journalism is protected speech. Nonetheless, right-wing journalists have continued to visit and film Somali centers, prompting police intervention and community resistance. The situation has worsened the already tense environment for immigrant communities, with reports of ICE raids detaining staff and families going into hiding. Community members have organized support networks, including training volunteers to assist in schools and day cares, and delivering food and supplies to affected staff and families. Child care advocates argue that these false fraud allegations distract from critical issues such as long waiting lists for subsidies and funding shortages that hinder access to affordable child care. They accuse political actors of manufacturing a crisis to discredit efforts to invest in child care programs. Meanwhile, local officials continue to monitor and debunk false claims, emphasizing the importance of protecting immigrant communities and ensuring safe learning environments.