The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) featured singer Zach Bryan‘s song “Something in the Orange” in a recruitment video, a move that comes after the agency faced criticism for using Bryan’s music at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility. The video,posted to X (formerly Twitter) on August 22,2024,aims to attract potential recruits to DHS careers.
The use of Bryan’s music by DHS highlights the complex relationship between artists and government agencies, particularly regarding immigration enforcement. Bryan publicly voiced his disapproval when learning ICE played his music at the Delaney Hall Detention Facility in Newark, New Jersey, earlier this year, stating his music was not intended to be associated with the agency’s policies. This latest growth raises questions about the agency’s sensitivity to artist preferences and its strategy for public image management.
According to a Fox News Digital report, DHS utilized the song as background music in a video showcasing various career paths within the department, including roles with the Coast Guard, TSA, and Border Patrol. The video’s caption reads, “Find your purpose. Find your people.Find your future. Join the DHS team!”
bryan’s management did not respond to a request for comment from Fox News Digital regarding the DHS recruitment video.
The initial controversy stemmed from a June 13,2024,protest at the Delaney Hall facility,where attendees alleged ICE officials were playing Bryan’s music during the demonstration against federal immigration enforcement raids. Bryan addressed the situation on social media, stating, “I don’t support what ICE is doing and I never have.” He added that his team was working to prevent his music from being played at ICE facilities in the future.
Alexander Hall,an associate editor for Fox News Digital,reported on the story. He can be reached at Alexander.hall@fox.com.
