The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is facing widespread criticism after releasing a controversial video that incorporates Pokémon imagery and music to depict immigration arrests. The video, which has gone viral online, combines footage of federal agents apprehending individuals with clips from the Pokémon anime and the franchise’s iconic theme song, Gotta Catch ’Em All. It concludes with mock Pokémon cards displaying the names and alleged crimes of those arrested.
Critics argue that the video trivializes serious immigration enforcement actions and dehumanizes those affected. The use of a beloved children’s franchise to promote such a sensitive topic has been described as “cute authoritarianism” by some observers.
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| The Pokémon Company International |
In response, The Pokémon Company International condemned the unauthorized use of its intellectual property. The company clarified that it did not grant DHS permission to use its branding. However, former Chief Legal Officer Don McGowan noted that legal action is unlikely, citing a desire to avoid further media attention and potential complications related to the immigration status of some U.S.-based executives.
Despite the backlash, the video remains online, and DHS has not removed it. The incident has sparked broader debate about the ethics of using popular culture to promote government policies and the potential impact on public perception of immigration enforcement.
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