DHS Asks Olivia Rodrigo to “not Belittle” ICE,Quoting Her Lyrics
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has responded to Olivia Rodrigo’s criticism of the agency’s use of her song “get him back!” in a social media video promoting self-deportation,asking the singer to “not belittle” the work of immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The unusual exchange highlights the growing tension between artists and government agencies over the use of copyrighted material in politically charged campaigns.
The DHS response comes after Rodrigo publicly condemned the agency for utilizing her music to promote a message she vehemently opposes. The ICE video, posted on Instagram, featured the song alongside text urging undocumented immigrants to “LEAVE NOW and self-deport using the CBP Home app,” warning of consequences for those who do not comply. Rodrigo commented on the post, stating, “Don’t ever use my songs to promote your racist, hateful propaganda,” a comment that has since been deleted.
This incident follows similar controversies involving other artists. Jess Glynne previously criticized the White House for using her song ‘Hold My Hand’ in an ICE promotional video, and Theo Von also called out DHS for using a clip of him out of context. The agency’s repeated use of popular music, and subsequent backlash, raises questions about its social media strategy and sensitivity to artists’ political views.
The current situation unfolds as President Trump enters the first year of his second term, marked by a renewed focus on immigration enforcement.In January, the Department of Homeland Security announced the end of a policy restricting ICE agents from arresting individuals at sensitive locations like houses of worship, schools, and hospitals. This shift in policy, coupled wiht the agency’s aggressive social media tactics, signals a more assertive approach to targeting undocumented immigrants in the United States.
The DHS’s appeal to Rodrigo underscores the complex relationship between artistic expression, political messaging, and the evolving landscape of social media. It remains to be seen how Rodrigo will respond, and whether this exchange will prompt further dialog between artists and government agencies regarding the use of copyrighted material in political campaigns.
