DHS Uses Holiday-Themed Memes for Immigration Enforcement Messaging

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has embraced a festive approach to its social media campaigns by sharing holiday-themed memes aimed at highlighting its enforcement actions against illegal immigration. These posts come despite ongoing concerns about the agency’s policies and practices.

On Friday, DHS shared an image featuring masked federal law enforcement agents wearing Santa Claus hats with Christmas lights on their badges. The caption humorously referenced “Santa,” tying it to federal agents’ efforts. Later that day, they retweeted a GIF of President Donald Trump guiding Santa’s sleigh while wearing a Santa hat.

Another post on Monday offered a more direct message by asking users to report illegal aliens for enforcement action. The caption was “Check out Santa’s naughty list” and included mug shots scrolling past behind an image of Santa Claus viewing them. DHS claims this campaign is part of its ongoing efforts to keep Americans informed about immigration enforcement.

The agency also promoted a deportation assistance program during the holidays, describing it as offering illegal immigrants who leave voluntarily a “free flight” – meaning they can return home at no cost if they depart willingly before removal proceedings conclude.

This isn’t the first time DHS has used internet memes for political messaging. In June 2024, the agency posted an Instagram video featuring federal officers breaking into a party with ICE’s theme song playing, targeting drug cartels in South Carolina where law enforcement arrested individuals at a suspected cartel-run club and announced their deportation plans via social media.

The department continues to use creative methods for raising awareness about immigration enforcement activities during holiday periods.