The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stirred controversy on Tuesday with a Christmas message celebrating the decrease in the "illegal population" during the festive season.
"This Christmas, our hearts swell as our illegal population shrinks," the agency stated on its official X account (formerly Twitter).
Many interpreted this message as an attempt to justify the mass deportations championed by current DHS head Kristi Noem, who has maintained a stringent stance on immigration since being appointed by former President Donald Trump.
Similar messages have recently sparked backlash, with critics labeling them as "cruel" and "shameful," particularly given their timing just before Christmas—a season typically associated with compassion and family spirit.
"The government can uphold policies that are debatable, but it must not be insensitive to the human consequences of its actions," read a viral comment in response to the official post, calling the message "a slap in the face to sensitivity."
The Hispanic community in Miami, including Cuban immigrants, showed mixed reactions: while some supported the deportation policies, others lamented the government's lack of empathy towards migrants in precarious situations.
"The saddest part is seeing those who fled authoritarian regimes applaud messages that demean other immigrants," expressed a Cuban-American activist in a statement to CiberCuba.
The Department of Homeland Security has not issued a formal apology, though insiders close to the agency claimed the message "did not reflect institutional views," attributing it to a "communication error" by the digital team.
Understanding the DHS Christmas Message Controversy
What was controversial about the DHS Christmas message?
The message was controversial because it celebrated the reduction of the "illegal population" during a time typically associated with compassion, sparking accusations of insensitivity.
How did Kristi Noem's policies influence the DHS message?
Kristi Noem's hardline immigration stance, supported by mass deportations, influenced the message, as it was seen as a justification of these policies.
How did the Hispanic community react to the DHS message?
Reactions were divided; some supported the deportation policies, while others criticized the lack of empathy towards migrants.