E.B. White’s Granddaughter Martha Criticizes DHS for Using Book Title in Raids

Martha White, granddaughter of esteemed author E.B. White, has criticized the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for naming a recent immigration operation after her grandfather’s acclaimed book, *Charlotte’s Web*. This operation, dubbed “Operation Charlotte’s Web,” is part of a broader initiative by the DHS to target undocumented immigrants in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Martha White’s Criticism of DHS

Martha White, who oversees her grandfather’s literary estate, expressed her disapproval in a statement shared with CNN. She emphasized that E.B. White’s legacy opposed actions that instilled fear in individuals. She stated, “He certainly didn’t believe in masked men, in unmarked cars, raiding people’s homes and workplaces without IDs or summons.”

White argues that the DHS’s use of her grandfather’s work to justify a mass crackdown on perceived illegal immigrants contradicts the ethical values portrayed in *Charlotte’s Web*. This classic story, published in 1952, revolves around themes of compassion and the fight for justice.

Details of Operation Charlotte’s Web

• The operation commenced in Charlotte, North Carolina, resulting in the arrest of 81 individuals.
• Gregory Bovino, the Border Patrol commander leading the initiative, referenced *Charlotte’s Web* in a social media post.
• Critics, including North Carolina Governor Josh Stein, have accused DHS agents of racial profiling, claiming they target citizens based on skin color.

The community response has been significant, with local business owners like Manuel “Manolo” Betancur closing shops for the first time in decades due to safety concerns. He noted the need to protect his customers and family in light of the atmosphere created by the operation.

Parallel Controversies

This criticism isn’t isolated. In a similar case, the mother of a slain student, Katie Abraham, criticized DHS for naming an operation after her daughter. Denise Lorence labeled it “unbearable” to associate her daughter’s name with a politically charged mission. Conversely, Katie’s father supported the DHS action, attributing his daughter’s death to sanctuary policies.

Martha White’s outcry serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of politicizing literature. She quoted a sentiment from her grandfather’s work, which highlights generosity: “By helping you, perhaps I was trying to lift up my life a little.” The essence of this message stands in stark contrast to the motives of the current operation.

E.B. White’s Legacy

E.B. White, born in 1899 and passing away in 1985, was a prominent figure against authoritarianism and often championed democratic values. His writings emphasized the importance of civil liberties and the dignity of all individuals. Martha White’s statements underscore the ongoing relevance of her grandfather’s ideals in today’s political landscape.

The Daily Beast has reached out to the DHS for further comment on these allegations and the use of literary references in their operations.