In the now-divided U.S., abrupt change is either welcomed with open arms or rejected. On Jan. 20, Donald Trump issued an executive order concerning immigration. The official order reads, “Enforcing our Nation’s immigration laws is critically important to the national security and public safety of the United States.” Since then, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has arrested thousands of undocumented immigrants, according to NBC.
On Jan. 27, Mexican-American actress Selena Gomez posted a video on her Instagram story, seemingly reacting to the deportations. She was visibly distressed. Talking through tears, she wrote “I’m sorry” with a Mexican flag emoji over the video. Gomez cried, “I just want to say I’m so sorry. All my people are getting attacked. The children, they don’t understand. I’m so sorry.”
Within hours, the video was deleted, followed by a story, “Apparently it’s not ok to show empathy for people.” However, Gomez very clearly mishandled her feelings regarding this situation.
To write a serious post or share sympathy in a video is one thing, to cry and apologize aimlessly is another. As a public figure with a large platform, addressing profound issues in a mature manner is important for raising awareness or making change. However, recording herself sobbing about something that does not directly impact her comes off as tone-deaf and manipulative. Her video was unhelpful and appeared to be a reach for attention.
In response to Gomez’s video, the White House released a video on their official X account featuring the mothers of victims of violence perpetrated by immigrants. The women shared how it is hard to believe Gomez’s reaction and that she does not know who she is crying for. One woman shared how she felt the video was a ruse to garner sympathy. While these women have every right to mourn the death of their children, the White House’s video is a direct attack on Gomez, which is unprofessional and unfair. Gomez sharing sympathy for immigrant children and families does not mean she does not see the other side of the coin.
This situation is not black and white, and the arguments about immigration are certainly not. The mass deportations are terrifying for many innocent, undocumented families, and the deportation of dangerous immigrants is relieving to many.These are not mutually exclusive. However, one thing should remain clear, Gomez’s attempt to share “empathy” missed the mark for all.
