In a time of heightened tensions and political turmoil, a new directive has emerged, urging social media influencers to tread carefully when addressing the sensitive topic of immigration. This discovery highlights the delicate balance between free expression and the need for responsible content curation during a crackdown on this critical issue. As we delve deeper into this story, we’ll uncover the nuances and implications of this remarkable development.
The Crackdown on Social Media Influencers in the U.S.
Avoiding Politics: The New Advice for Non-Citizen Content Creators
Lawyers are increasingly telling U.S.-based content creators who aren’t citizens to steer clear of political topics as an immigration crackdown spreads across the country. “Every chance I get to tell them to scrub their socials even for likes and reposts of innocuous content — like JD Vance or anti-war memes — I do,” said Genie Doi, an immigration lawyer who works with influencers.
The Risks of Speaking Out
In the combative, anything-goes world of digital media, internet personalities tend to gravitate toward hot-button subjects, not shy away from them. But in the current political climate, lawyers are telling their clients that weighing in on topics such as Palestine or the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids in Los Angeles, can come with serious risks, including unwanted scrutiny from authorities or unfriendly competitors.
The Detention of Khaby Lame
A Crackdown on a Seemingly Apolitical Influencer
Last month, Khaby Lame, a Senegalese Italian influencer with millions of followers on TikTok, was detained by immigration agents in Las Vegas after overstaying the terms of his visa, according to a Department of Homeland Security senior official. Lame, who has partnered with many mainstream brands, including Pepsi and Hugo Boss, has since voluntarily left the country.
A Conservative Influencer’s Claim
Afterward, Bo Loudon, a conservative influencer who is friends with President Trump’s son Barron, took credit for tipping off Homeland Security. Even though Lame typically doesn’t speak in his TikTok videos, which come across as entirely apolitical, Loudon has since described him as a “far-left influencer.” Lame didn’t respond to a request for comment.
The Risks for International Influencers
The Allure of the U.S. Market
For many social media personalities around the world, the U.S. is a desirable place to work due to the big marketing budgets of U.S. brands, as well as the proximity to dealmakers and casting directors in Hollywood.
Potential Hazards at the Border
But for anyone with a large following on social media, coming into the U.S. these days isn’t without potential hazards. In May, Hasan Piker, a popular far-left political commentator and U.S. citizen, was stopped and questioned by U.S. border agents at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport about his views on Palestine, which he regularly shares on Amazon.com Inc.’s livestreaming site Twitch.
The Homeland Security Response
Denying Political Motivations
“Our officers are following the law, not agendas,” Homeland Security assistant secretary for public affairs Tricia McLaughlin responded via email. “Upon entering the country, this individual [Hasan Piker] was referred for further inspection — a routine, lawful process that occurs daily, and can apply for any traveler. Once his inspection was complete, he was promptly released.”
Revoking Global Entry Privileges
Earlier this year, U.S. Customs and Border Protection revoked Piker’s Global Entry privileges — a program in which approved individuals get expedited clearance on their return to the country. Doi, the immigration lawyer, is now advising clients who aren’t U.S. citizens to avoid international travel altogether.
Keywords
program
English translation: program
Example sentences:
– I am enrolled in a language learning program.
– The company has a training program for new employees.
Detailed explanation: A program is a structured plan or series of actions intended to achieve a particular goal or outcome. In the context of language learning, a program refers to a comprehensive curriculum or course of study designed to help individuals improve their proficiency in a specific language.
inspection
English translation: inspection
Example sentences:
– The customs officer conducted a thorough inspection of my luggage.
– The building underwent a routine safety inspection.
Detailed explanation: Inspection refers to the careful examination or scrutiny of something to ensure it meets certain standards or requirements. In language learning, inspection can involve activities such as reviewing one’s progress, evaluating language skills, or analyzing the accuracy and effectiveness of one’s learning strategies.
toward
English translation: toward
Example sentences:
– I am working toward my goal of becoming fluent in the language.
– The teacher provided feedback to guide the students toward better pronunciation.
Detailed explanation: Toward is a preposition that indicates direction or movement in the direction of a specific target or goal. In the context of language learning, toward can be used to express the learner’s progress, focus, or commitment to improving their language skills.
daily
English translation: daily
Example sentences:
– I practice the language for at least 30 minutes daily.
– The language learner has a daily routine of studying vocabulary and grammar.
Detailed explanation: Daily refers to something that occurs or is done every day or on a regular basis. In language learning, a daily practice or routine is often recommended to maintain consistent progress and reinforce the skills being developed.
clearance
English translation: clearance
Example sentences:
– The language school provided me with the necessary clearance to take the proficiency exam.
– The government issued a travel clearance for foreign nationals to enter the country.
Detailed explanation: Clearance refers to the formal approval or authorization to proceed with a particular action or activity. In the context of language learning, clearance may involve obtaining permission, meeting requirements, or demonstrating proficiency to participate in certain language-related programs, exams, or activities.
Encouraging words for language learners:
Keep up the great work, and don’t be discouraged by the challenges you may face. Consistent practice and a positive mindset are key to mastering a new language. Remember, every step forward, no matter how small, is a step toward your goal. Keep pushing forward, and you’ll be amazed by the progress you can make. Study hard, and keep up the excellent effort!