Norman Rockwell’s Family Criticizes Homeland Security's Use of His Artwork
The descendants of Norman Rockwell have publicly condemned the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for misusing the artist’s paintings in social media posts that convey anti-immigrant messages.
Controversial Social Media Posts by DHS
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August 20 Post: Salute the Flag (1971)
This image prominently features white individuals dressed in early to mid-20th century attire honoring the American flag. The DHS caption reads, “Protect our American way of life.” The combination implies a vision of America dominated by a conservative white demographic without diversity.
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September 29 Post: Working on the Statue of Liberty (1946)
This post highlights the statue’s raised arm with a superimposed slogan: “Protect your homeland and defend your culture.” It includes a call to action: “become a homeland defender today.” The caption quotes former President Calvin Coolidge:
“Those who do not want to be partakers of the American spirit ought not to settle in America.”
The Rockwell family argues these uses distort the artist’s legacy to support exclusionary views.
Author’s summary: Norman Rockwell’s descendants oppose Homeland Security’s social media posts using his art to promote exclusionary and anti-immigrant messages that misrepresent the artist’s intent.