DHS Sparks Controversy with “E.T.” Image to Promote Deportation

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has attracted significant criticism after using an iconic scene from the 1982 film “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” in a social media campaign promoting self-deportation. On July 16, 2023, the agency shared an edited version of the movie poster featuring E.T. and his companion Elliot riding a bike across the night sky, accompanied by the message: “Even E.T. knew when it was TIME TO GO HOME.” The post encouraged undocumented immigrants to utilize the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) app for voluntary departure.

DHS’s social media posts included a direct call to action, stating, “Illegal aliens, take a page from E.T. and PHONE HOME. If you are here illegally, leave NOW — the easy way — using the CBP Home App.” The message assured users they would receive travel assistance and a stipend for their return journey. This campaign was initially reported by the Latin Times.

The controversial use of such a beloved film has raised eyebrows, particularly regarding the implications of promoting self-deportation through a pop culture reference. Critics have pointed out that the film’s director, Steven Spielberg, who has previously advised President Joe Biden on his reelection campaign, would likely not endorse the DHS’s appropriation of his work for such purposes.

Criticism of DHS Messaging

The backlash against DHS intensified when the agency also shared the painting “American Progress” by John Gast on July 23, 2023. This 1872 artwork is often associated with the concept of Manifest Destiny, which justified the expansion of the United States at the expense of Indigenous populations. The DHS Instagram post read, “A Heritage to be proud of, a Homeland worth defending,” evoking further criticism regarding the historical context of such imagery.

Commentators have condemned the agency’s messaging, arguing it perpetuates a narrative that marginalizes Indigenous peoples and glorifies a history of colonialism. In a commentary for MSNBC, writer Zeeshan Aleem remarked, “You don’t need to be an art history major to pick up on the reactionary subtext of DHS’ messaging.” Aleem suggested that the agency is promoting a vision of America rooted in “ethnic cleansing, racist social hierarchies, and racial domination.”

The combination of these posts has led to a broader discussion about the role of government agencies in addressing immigration issues and the language they use. Critics argue that employing culturally significant imagery to promote policies perceived as exclusionary undermines the dignity of those affected by such policies.

As the debate continues, the DHS faces scrutiny not only for its choice of messaging but also for its approach to immigration enforcement in a country characterized by its diverse population. The agency’s use of popular culture to communicate serious policy matters raises questions about the appropriateness and effectiveness of its strategies moving forward.