The White House and the U.S. Border Patrol have sparked a wave of criticism by posting festive-themed videos on social media about the deportation of immigrants in the United States.
The most recent video was posted on Instagram just four days ago and shows images of handcuffed individuals walking in a line toward the plane where they will be repatriated. In the background, this chorus can be heard: "Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye," popularized by Steam in 1969.
The musical selection was interpreted by many users on social media as a mockery, portraying the deportations as a kind of triumphant spectacle.
Another video, from March 17, used the song "Closing Time" by the American group Semisonic, whose chorus says: “You don’t have to go home but you can’t stay here.”
The comments on the videos reflect a deep rejection: “This makes my stomach turn,” “Is a child managing this account?”, “This country has lost its moral compass,” “This is sickening,” “Can we play this song when you leave office?”
Other internet users criticized the childish and offensive tone of the audiovisual material, while a small segment applauded the initiative.
The use of handcuffed individuals treated as if they were 18th-century slaves, accompanied by mock music, has been widely condemned.
This communicative phenomenon, which trivializes a human tragedy, confirms a concerning trend from U.S. institutions: Turning deportations into dehumanizing propaganda.
In February, Elon Musk, head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), reacted to another video published by the White House, titled "ASMR: Illegal Alien Deportation Flight".
In response to the controversial communication strategy aimed at highlighting the severity of the new immigration policies of the Trump administration, Musk said: "Ha ha wow," which was seen as a mockery by the entrepreneur.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Deportation of Immigrants and the Controversial Communication Strategy of the White House
Why has the deportation video published by the White House generated controversy?
The White House's deportation video has been criticized for its mocking and insensitive tone, as it uses festive music and features handcuffed individuals in a context that trivializes a human tragedy. The strategy has been seen as an attempt to turn deportations into insensitive visual propaganda.
How has Elon Musk reacted to the deportation videos?
Elon Musk, leader of the Department of Government Efficiency, has reacted with mockery to the deportation videos, using expressions like "Haha wow" on his social media. His comment was interpreted as an ironic celebration of the immigration policies of the Trump administration, which has fueled the debate about his insensitive stance towards immigrants.
What impact do current immigration policies have on migrant children and families?
The current immigration policies have created an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among migrant children and families, affecting their emotional stability. Examples like the viral letter from an American girl expressing her fear of ICE raids illustrate the negative impact on childhood and the constant worry of family separation.
What position has the White House taken regarding undocumented immigrants?
The White House has taken an inflexible stance, considering that all undocumented immigrants are criminals and are subject to deportation without distinction. This policy has been criticized by human rights advocates and has generated controversy due to its impact on individuals without criminal records.
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