On the Fourth of July, instead of a traditional patriotic message, ice cream company Ben & Jerry’s chose to share a message calling for the return of “stolen indigenous land” to Native Americans. The company stated that the United States was “founded on stolen indigenous land” and urged the government to commit to returning it.
Challenging the Celebrations
Ben & Jerry’s argued that July 4th festivities, including parades, barbecues, and fireworks, can distract from an essential truth about the nation’s birth. The company proposed starting with Mount Rushmore, highlighting the history of the iconic memorial and its significance to Native Americans.
Read More: Uh-Oh! Pride Parades Get Thumbs Down from Americans: Is it Too Much Rainbow for Business?
Confronting History and Injustice
The ice cream company claimed that the faces on Mount Rushmore represent men who actively worked to destroy Indigenous cultures and deny basic rights to Indigenous people. They pointed out that even the Supreme Court ruled in 1980 that the land Mount Rushmore is on was stolen from the Sioux tribe, resulting in a $105 million award in damages to the tribes, which they refused.
Acknowledging the Truth
Ben & Jerry’s emphasized that the United States exists on stolen land and called for the acknowledgment of this reality. They urged the return of Mount Rushmore to the Lakota tribe, envisioning a Fourth of July that embraces freedom and justice for all.
Read Also: Florida High School Faces Backlash Over Yearbook Spread, Offers Refunds and Reprints
Controversial Activism
Ben & Jerry’s has a history of engaging in progressive political causes, including their support for the LGBTQ+ community and the “Black Lives Matter” movement. In 2021, the company faced boycotts after announcing that it would no longer sell its ice cream in Israel’s “Occupied Palestinian Territory.”
Defending Their Mission
The company stands by its activism and integrates concerns about injustices into its day-to-day business activities. While Ben & Jerry’s did not immediately respond to requests for comment on their Independence Day message, their bold stance reflects their commitment to addressing social issues through their platform.
This controversial message from Ben & Jerry’s challenges the celebration of Independence Day and sparks a conversation about historical injustices and the ongoing struggle for justice and equality.
Read Next: ATF Rule Reclassifying Firearms with “Stabilizing Braces” Provokes Outrage, Litigation
Malik is a skilled writer with a passion for news and current events. With their keen eye for detail, they provide insightful perspectives on the latest happenings. Stay informed and engaged!
Tags:
