Staff Reports
In recent weeks, Los Angeles has found itself at the epicenter of a heated national debate as protests erupted in response to immigration enforcement actions. What began as demonstrations against ICE raids quickly escalated, with scenes of American flags being burned and foreign flags—most notably the Mexican flag—waved high in the streets. Such imagery has struck a nerve with many Americans who see the Stars and Stripes as a symbol of unity and sacrifice, not a prop to be discarded in moments of political discord.
The spectacle was amplified by the involvement of Hollywood celebrities, who wasted no time in lending their platforms to the protests. Figures like Doechii and Finneas used high-profile events and social media to denounce law enforcement actions and the federal government’s response. Their rhetoric painted the situation as a struggle for justice, yet their actions seemed to stop at the microphone. While they called for compassion and open borders, few, if any, offered tangible solutions or personal responsibility, such as opening their own homes to those they claim to champion.
Meanwhile, the entertainment industry’s selective outrage was on full display. Many of the same celebrities who decry America’s supposed failings continue to enjoy the privileges and freedoms that only this country affords. Their grandstanding often rings hollow to everyday Americans who respect the rule of law and believe in the importance of national sovereignty. The disconnect between Hollywood’s elite and the values of the heartland has never been more apparent.
In stark contrast stands Tom Cruise, whose unapologetic celebration of American patriotism in “Top Gun: Maverick” has resonated deeply with audiences. Cruise’s salute to the military and the American flag was more than just cinematic flair—it was a reminder of the virtues that built this nation. His success at the box office proves that honoring America’s ideals still has a powerful place in popular culture, even as others in Hollywood seem eager to tear them down.
Ultimately, the recent events in Los Angeles highlight a troubling trend: the willingness of some to vilify their own country while embracing symbols of foreign nations. True leadership and celebrity are not found in performative gestures or virtue signaling, but in standing up for the principles that make America exceptional. As the nation watches, it’s clear that many are hungry for a return to gratitude, respect for the flag, and a renewed sense of unity—values that should never go out of style.
