US homeland security condemned for using Japanese artist’s work without consent | US immigration
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is once again facing backlash, this time from a Japanese artist who accused the agency of using his work without permission to encourage deportations.
In a post on X on New Year’s Eve, the department posted a photo featuring a pristine and empty beach with palm trees and a vintage car. On the photo was written “America after 100 million exiles” and a separate caption read: “The peace of a nation no longer surrounded by the third world.”
In response to the post, 78-year-old Japanese graphic designer Hiroshi Nagai, known for his urban pop and dreamscape artwork, said: in question On X: “This image is being used without permission from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. What should I do about it?”
Nagai is known for his 1950s Americana-inspired artwork, which often depicts lush palm trees, tranquil ocean views, and bleak cityscapes. His works are typically devoid of people, instead offering distant and contemplative views of urban landscapes.
In a statement to the Guardian, a DHS spokesperson said: “DHS will continue to use every tool at its disposal to keep the American people informed as our agents work to Make America Safe Again.”
The use of Nagai’s work is the latest in a series of incidents in which the department has used the works of various artists, often without permission, to promote its immigration agenda.
Last July, the department shared a painting by American artist Thomas Kinkade, known for his idyllic depictions of American life. homeland security department sent The image above the
In response, the Kinkade Family Foundation Issue A statement condemning the use of the painting: “The use of the artwork was unauthorized and we requested that DHS remove this post.”
He added: “The Kinkade Family Foundation strongly condemns the sentiment expressed in the post and the deplorable actions that DHS continues to carry out. Like many of you, we are deeply disturbed to see this image used to promote division and xenophobia associated with DHS ideals, as it is contrary to our mission.”
The department has also drawn the ire of pop stars who have used popular songs to promote deportation efforts in cheerful TikTok-style videos.
Last November, Olivia Rodrigo criticized the White House for using the song “All-American Bitch” in a video encouraging undocumented immigrants to self-deport.
“Never use my songs to promote your racist, hateful propaganda,” the 22-year-old Filipino American singer wrote. The department said in response: “America is always grateful to federal law enforcement who keep us safe. We encourage Ms. Rodrigo to thank them for their service, rather than belittling their sacrifice.”
A few weeks later, Sabrina Carpenter made headlines after condemning the White House for using her song Juno to promote videos of immigration raids in X.
Responding to the since-deleted video showing several Immigration Customs and Enforcement officers arresting people in what appears to be Chicago, Carpenter wrote: “This video is evil and disgusting. Never include me or my music to benefit your inhumane agenda.”
