Kim Kardashian has once again placed herself at the centre of a heated political storm. The reality star and business mogul spoke out against the latest wave of US immigration raids in Los Angeles.
Her words, echoed by a chorus of stars, have sparked fresh debate not only in America but the rest of the world, especially those who know the pain of family separation and the power of protest.
KIM KARDASHIAN CONDEMNS THE RAIDS
Kim Kardashian took to Instagram to denounce the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids. The raids have led to the arrest of over 100 people and ignited days of fierce protests in LA, according to News Nation Now.
“When we’re told that ICE exists to keep our country safe and remove violent criminals—great.
But when we see authorities rip innocent, hardworking people from their families in inhumane ways, we have to speak up.
We have to do what’s right… There HAS to be a BETTER way,” she wrote to her 356 million followers.
IMMIGRANTS VS THE NATIONAL GUARD
She added, “Growing up in LA, I’ve seen how deeply immigrants are woven into the fabric of this city. They are our neighbours, friends, classmates, coworkers, and family.
No matter where you fall politically, it’s clear that our communities thrive because of the contributions of immigrants.
We can’t turn a blind eye when fear and injusticekeep people from living their lives freely and safely”.
The raids, ordered by President Donald Trump, have seen the deployment of thousands of National Guard troops and 700 US Marines to Los Angeles. This is all without the state governor’s approval.
CALIFORNIA GOVERNOR SLAMS THE RAIDS
California Governor Gavin Newsom slammed the move, calling it “purposefully inflammatory” and warning that it “inflamed a combustible situation”. The state is now challenging the deployment in court.
As the protests raged, Grammy-winning rapper Doechii used her BET Awards victory speech to call out the government’s heavy-handed tactics.
“There are ruthless attacks that are creating fear and chaos in our communities in the name of law and order,” she said. Trump is using military forces to stop a protest.
Consider what kind of government it is when the military deploys against us every time we exercise our democratic right to protest. What type of government is that?”
MANY STARS SPEAK UP
Other celebrities have joined the fray. Mark Ruffalo warned, “You are pointing your guns in the wrong direction…
The billionaire at the top is stealing from you blind, yet you worry about the poorest of the poor ruining your life.
Eva Longoria called the actions “Un-American,” and singer Reneé Rapp declared, “This is a disgrace”.
The protests and raids have not been limited to Los Angeles. They have spread to cities like Atlanta, Seattle, New York, and Chicago.
STATE POWER AND COMMUNITY
In scenes reminiscent of South Africa’s own history of protest, demonstrators have faced rubber bullets, tear gas, and mass arrests.
Over 200 people have been detained in LA alone since the weekend.
For South Africans, the story is all too familiar. State power clashing with community resistance, families torn apart, and demanding justice.
Kardashian’s words ring true on both sides of the Atlantic: “There HAS to be a BETTER way”. As the world watches, one thing is clear: the fight for dignity, family, and justice is universal.
HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THE USE OF MILITARY FORCE DURING PROTESTS?
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