The White House has once again found itself in the midst of controversy, this time over a photo that was altered and referred to as a “meme”. The photo in question is of Minnesota protester Nekima Levy Armstrong’s arrest, and it has sparked outrage and condemnation from many.
The White House’s use of the term “meme” to describe this altered photo has been met with criticism, with many viewing it as a dismissive and insensitive response to a serious issue. The fact that the photo was altered to make it appear as though Armstrong was smiling while being arrested only adds fuel to the fire.
In a statement released on Thursday, the White House said, “YET AGAIN to the people who feel the need to reflexively defend perpetrators of heinous crimes in our country I share with you this message: Enforcement of the law will continue. The memes will continue.” This statement has only added to the outrage, with many viewing it as a callous and dismissive attitude towards the ongoing protests against police brutality and systemic racism.
It is deeply concerning that the White House, the highest office in the country, would choose to refer to a serious issue as a “meme”. This not only shows a lack of understanding and empathy towards the situation, but it also undermines the gravity of the issue at hand. The use of the term “meme” trivializes the struggles and pain of those who are fighting for justice and equality.
Furthermore, the statement from the White House seems to suggest that those who are speaking out against police brutality and systemic racism are somehow defending perpetrators of heinous crimes. This is a dangerous and false narrative that only serves to divide and distract from the real issue at hand.
It is important to remember that the protests taking place across the country are not just about one incident or one person. They are a response to the systemic racism and injustice that has plagued our country for far too long. The fact that the White House would choose to refer to this as a “meme” is not only disrespectful, but it also shows a lack of understanding of the root causes of these protests.
Enforcement of the law is important, but it should not come at the cost of human rights and dignity. The use of excessive force and violence against peaceful protesters is unacceptable and goes against the very principles of democracy and justice that our country stands for.
It is time for our leaders to listen to the voices of those who are speaking out against injustice and take meaningful action towards creating a more just and equal society. The memes may continue, but so will the protests and calls for change.
In conclusion, the White House’s use of the term “meme” to describe an altered photo of a protester’s arrest is not only insensitive, but it also shows a lack of understanding and empathy towards the ongoing protests against police brutality and systemic racism. It is time for our leaders to take a stand and address the root causes of these protests, rather than dismissing them as mere “memes”. Let us come together as a nation and work towards creating a more just and equal society for all.
