Even the most outwardly apolitical creators have reached their limit.
Even the most outwardly apolitical creators have reached their limit.
It’s not surprising that the individual who has been vocal about the perils of advanced capitalism on Instagram for the past five years would direct their outrage towards ICE. However, a significant shift has been observed recently, particularly following the latest incidents of gunfire involving federal agents — even profiles that typically concentrate on golfing, woodcutting, and playing with cats like percussion instruments have begun to raise their voices.
The atmosphere on platforms like social media and Reddit took an even more pronounced turn yesterday, following the death of Alex Pretti at the hands of ICE. Even the moderator of the typically apolitical r/catbongos (a subreddit where “gentlemen, gentlewomen, and gentlethems of quality gather to enjoy watching cats being played like musical instruments”) expressed their opinions in a post stating, “If you continue to endorse Trump/ICE even to a minimal extent, you are unwelcome in this community.”
The quilters on Instagram or a Facebook page dedicated to New England gravestones have concluded that enough is enough. Nevertheless, judging by the remarks, it appears that the government has lost favor with r/military as well. The subreddit is populated with frustrated contributors condemning that “this epitomizes tyranny” and sharing humorous images satirizing Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. One user asserting to be a current member of the U.S. Army with 21 years of service stated, “these individuals oppose everything we represent as Americans. Contemporary brownshirts.”
Throughout Reddit, various subs are being flooded with anti-ICE messages. From r/Fauxmoi, to r/NFCNorthMemeWar, and r/DungeonCrawlerCarl. There have even been some initial signs of dissent among members of r/conservative, some of whom have taken issue with Kristi Noem’s classification of Alexi Pretti as a “domestic terrorist” and suggested she ought to “remain silent for a time.” Additionally, disputes have arisen among community members regarding perceived contradictions concerning the Second Amendment.
Prominent figures have also added their voices to the rising tide, including Joe Santagato of The Basement Yard podcast, who remarked that the situation unfolding on the streets of Minneapolis was “truly horrifying.” Furthermore, when someone advised him to “Avoid political discussions” and “return to spitting water and untangling words with your foolish associates,” he retorted, “Untangle this: ksuc ym slalb.”
Canadian wrestling brothers and influencers Chris and Patrick Vörös have previously shared their anti-ICE opinions, using the chance to highlight the two ICE agents they support. The educational YouTube channel Primer also took to X to assert that this issue transcends politics and pertains to the “foundation of society.”
Synth influencers and music gear YouTubers have chimed in, with figures like Benn Jordan, Randall Taylor (Amulets), Bad Snacks, and Jason Mays, a host of Working Class Music. The United Musicians & Allied Workers have also advocated for the eradication of ICE. Various manufacturers have expressed their solidarity with the citizens of Minneapolis, even if it may alienate some of their potential clients, including Drolo, Chase Bliss, and Hungry Robot.
Canadian artist bbno$ opted to speak out, even with the risk posed to his visa and ongoing U.S. tour, to express his support for the abolish ICE movement. Even Thoren Bradley, the Axe Man himself, whose entire persona revolves around being a muscular rural man who cuts wood, has chosen to call out the hypocrisy of conservative Christians to his 10.7 million followers.
The National Basketball Players Association also issued a statement, affirming their “solidarity with the individuals of Minnesota who are protesting and risking their lives to seek justice.”
It is not unexpected that creators like Hank Green are voicing their opinions. Nevertheless, when fitness influencers, duck-painting TikTok accounts, football subreddits, bourbon Instagram accounts, and even Second Amendment advocates have ultimately broken their silence, it appears the government has lost its grip on the narrative. Regardless of how vigorously they attempt to spin it.
Share your thoughts in the comments regarding which other creators and communities have started to voice their opinions.
Updates January 25th: Added more details about Reddit groups, music gear companies, and a statement from the NBPA.
