Pokémon has stated it did not give permission for the use of its theme song and other footage to be used in an ICE deportation raid video posted by the US government.
We are aware of a recent video posted by the Department of Homeland Security that includes imagery and language associated with our brand, Pokémon Company International said in a statement. Our company was not involved in the creation or distribution of this content, and permission was not granted for the use of our intellectual property.
The video, shared by the Homeland Security account and the White House on TikTok, showcases arrests made by ICE agents while featuring Pokémon’s slogan Gotta catch 'em all.
It also includes footage from the opening credits of Pokémon's anime series, specifically highlighting main character Ash Ketchum. The video concludes with images of parody Pokémon trading cards that showcase the mugshots and alleged crimes of individuals arrested, ranging from murder to child endangerment.
ICE has increased its raid activities across the US based on policies from the previous administration aimed at creating the largest deportation program in US history.
'Keep me out of deportation videos'
Comedian Theo Von has publicly objected to a Department of Homeland Security video that included a clip of him making a joke about deportation statistics. He emphasized that he did not approve of his material being used for such purposes and criticized the simplification of a nuanced issue.
In a social media post, Von expressed his discontent, humorously suggesting the DHS send a check if they wanted to use his content, and pleaded, please take this down and please keep me out of your 'banger' deportation videos. His clip was part of a video that appeared to feature some politically charged and misleading claims about deportation statistics.
Previously, in another incident, British singer Jess Glynne shared her disgust after the White House utilized her song in a TikTok video promoting deportations.
