DHS Sparks Outrage by Comparing ICE Deportations to Pokémon

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is facing intense backlash from the gaming community after an ill-conceived video likened ICE deportations to the iconic children’s game Pokémon. The controversial video blends footage of immigration raids with graphics and music from the beloved Japanese anime series, invoking both disbelief and outrage among viewers.

DHS’s Misguided Video Campaign

On Monday, the DHS unveiled a video on social media platform X that juxtaposes graphic images from immigration raids with the Pokémon theme song. The caption “Gotta Catch ‘Em All” — a well-known motto from the franchise — was used alongside the visuals, raising critical eyebrows.

Key Highlights of the Video:

• Use of Intellectual Property: It remains uncertain if the DHS sought permission from Nintendo to use their intellectual property (IP).
• User Reactions: Irritated users quickly tagged Nintendo in their comments, questioning the legitimacy of the DHS’s use of the franchise. Comments included:
  • “@NintendoAmerica @Nintendo @Pokemon yo you guys cool with them using your IP for this?”
  • “Nintendo watching this knowing damn well they don’t have the resources to sue Homeland Security.”

Pokémon Trading Cards Featuring Arrested Migrants

As if the initial video wasn’t problematic enough, DHS’s social media team further escalated the situation by creating fictional Pokémon trading cards. These cards depicted arrested migrants, branding them as the “worst of the worst.”
Each card highlighted allegations of serious crimes next to cartoonish layouts typical of Pokémon merchandise. Notably, the cards included:

• Weakness: Listed as a snowflake emoji.
• Retreat: Represented by an airplane emoji.

Customs and Border Protection’s Lighthearted Approach

In a misguided display of humor, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) replied to the post with a GIF of Pikachu dancing, joking that this fictional creature was their “newest recruit.” Such interactions drew further disdain from the community.

Previous Incidents with Intellectual Property

This isn’t the first time government entities have faced scrutiny for misusing intellectual property. Notable examples include:

• Removal of Trump’s Video: In April 2019, Warner Bros. forced the removal of a video featuring music from “The Dark Knight Rises” due to copyright infringement.
• Rolling Stones’ Legal Threat: The band threatened legal action against former President Trump for using their song “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” during campaign events without permission.

Conclusion

The DHS’s attempt at a light-hearted campaign has backfired spectacularly, provoking outrage over its insensitivity and potential copyright violations. As the department navigates the blowback from the gaming community and concerned citizens, questions remain about the appropriateness of merging serious issues like immigration enforcement with children’s entertainment. For further insights into the implications of this controversial campaign, visit DHS’s official website.

By focusing on responsible social media strategies and respecting intellectual property, government agencies can avoid such PR mishaps in the future.