Recent federal immigration operations have sparked controversy in Charlotte, North Carolina, where officials have adopted a title from the classic children’s book, “Charlotte’s Web.” The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has named its recent crackdown “Operation Charlotte’s Web,” prompting backlash from the granddaughter of the book’s author, E.B. White.
Martha White’s Response to DHS
Martha White, E.B. White’s granddaughter and literary executor, criticized DHS’s use of the beloved book’s title. She stated that her grandfather “certainly didn’t believe in masked men, in unmarked cars, raiding people’s homes and workplaces without IDs or summons.”
- Martha White emphasized her grandfather’s belief in “the rule of law and due process.”
- She also condemned the agency for using the book’s name to promote actions contrary to its message of generosity and inclusion.
Details of Operation Charlotte’s Web
This immigration operation resulted in significant arrests in Charlotte, with about 81 individuals apprehended during one weekend alone. Border Patrol officials asserted that these actions targeted individuals with criminal backgrounds.
Statistics on Arrests
| Date | Location | Number of Arrests |
|---|---|---|
| Last Saturday | Charlotte, NC | 81 |
As of late August, nearly 200,000 individuals have been deported nationwide under similar operations. Amid the crackdown, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein expressed deep concerns about the nature of these raids, highlighting racial profiling and aggressive tactics used against residents.
Community Impact and Reactions
The enforcement measures have led to significant fear among residents and business owners. Some establishments, like a local Colombian bakery, temporarily closed due to the operations. Owner Manuel “Manolo” Betancur stated he felt compelled to protect his customers and family.
This incident follows a pattern where the current administration has faced criticism for co-opting names and legacies for political operations. The sentiment resonates with other families who have spoken out against their loved ones’ names being used in controversial contexts.
Martha White’s assertion highlights a need for clarity between her grandfather’s ideals and the actions of modern authorities. She notes the importance of addressing these misappropriations, emphasizing the underlying themes of kindness present in “Charlotte’s Web.” While the DHS continues its operations, the community remains vigilant and critical of the methods employed against them.
