Olivia Rodrigo Condemns Trump’s DHS for Using Her Songs in Propaganda

Olivia Rodrigo has publicly condemned the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for using her music in a video promoting controversial immigration policies. This backlash came after the DHS shared a post on November 4, featuring her song “All-American Bitch” to encourage undocumented immigrants to self-deport.

Rodrigo Responds to DHS Actions

The social media post, which included images of ICE detaining individuals, urged undocumented people to “LEAVE NOW and self-deport using the CBP Home app.” In response, Rodrigo expressed her disapproval directly in the comments, stating, “Don’t ever use my songs to promote your racist, hateful propaganda.”

Background on the Controversial Video

The video was a collaborative effort between the DHS and the White House’s Instagram account. “All-American Bitch” is a track from Rodrigo’s second studio album, “Guts,” which was released in 2023. The song features themes of personal empowerment, contrasting sharply with the message of the DHS’s video.

Previous Criticisms by Other Artists

Rodrigo is not alone in her criticism of the Trump administration’s use of music for political purposes. Artists like Jess Glynne have previously denounced similar actions. Glynne’s song “Hold My Hand” was used in a video promoting deportations, prompting her to write, “This post honestly makes me sick. My music is about love, unity, and spreading positivity — never about division or hate.”

Responses to ICE Raids and Deportation Videos

The Trump administration has faced widespread backlash for its aggressive stance on immigration. In January, the DHS announced it would end protections that restricted ICE agents from arresting undocumented individuals in sensitive locations like schools and hospitals. The use of social media to depict deportations has been particularly contentious.

• Theo Von, a comedian, also requested the DHS remove a video quoting him regarding deportation.
• Von’s comment came after he was approached by a fan about a friend’s deportation.
• He stated, “When it comes to immigration my thoughts and heart are a lot more nuanced than this video allows.”

Following public outcry, the DHS swiftly took down Von’s video, highlighting the broader issues surrounding representation and agency in discussions about immigration.

As artists continue to use their platforms for advocacy, the intersection of music, politics, and social justice remains a powerful conversation in contemporary society.