This sign obviously simplifies complex topics into a brief slogan - there are nuances and exceptions to both statements. But the core message is about misdirection:
We're being taught to fear the wrong people.
The media we consume sends messages that immigrants are "bad", while celebrating billionaires who use their power to bypass the rules that apply to the rest of us. That's the misdirection I'm calling out.
On the contrast/misdirection: "We idolize billionaires - their jets, their yachts, their 'bold' business moves. Shows like White Lotus aren't popular for nothing. Meanwhile, we act as though we fear immigrants. But here's the reality: billionaires use their wealth to shape policy in their favor, while immigrants are just trying to build better lives - something most of us can actually relate to."
On billionaires: "Billionaires aren't your friends. They're running businesses and using their enormous power to protect their interests - not ours. They have the largest carbon footprints, the most political influence, and the least accountability. Yet we celebrate them."
On immigrants: "We're a nation of immigrants, but also a nation with a history of racism and xenophobia. Most immigrants - including undocumented ones - are working hard for better lives. That resonates with me far more than the lifestyle of someone who owns a private jet."
The takeaway: "We love the rich, the celebrities, the powerful - and we don't care who they break to get there. Meanwhile, we scapegoat people who have no power at all. That's backwards."
Wayne Wakeman
October 18, 2025
How Billionaires Threaten Democracy
- Political Influence: Massive campaign donations and Super PACs buy access and make politicians more responsive to donors than voters.
- Lobbying: Armies of lobbyists literally write legislation that benefits the wealthy while shaping regulations meant to control them.
- Media Control: Billionaire-owned media outlets and platforms control narratives and decide which voices get heard.
- Tax Avoidance: They exploit loopholes and pay less than their share, defunding public services while accumulating more power.
- Worker Suppression: Fighting unions and organizing keeps people economically insecure and unable to participate fully in democracy.
- Different Rules: When regulations don't suit them, they hire lawyers, threaten to leave, or simply operate above the law.
The bottom line: The rest of us get one vote. Billionaires get to shape the entire playing field.
How Immigrants Strengthen Democracy
- Economic Contributions: Immigrants start businesses at higher rates than native-born Americans, pay taxes (including undocumented immigrants), fill essential workforce gaps, and strengthen local economies.
- Civic Participation: High voter turnout among naturalized citizens, active in community organizations and local governance. Many fled authoritarianism and deeply value democratic freedoms.
- Innovation & Entrepreneurship: Immigrants drive disproportionate amounts of American innovation, creating jobs and economic growth.
- Cultural Strength: Diverse perspectives challenge groupthink and strengthen our social fabric through community building.
- Historical Foundation: America's strength has always come from immigration. My great-grandfathers came here seeking opportunity. They worked hard and were successful. I see people doing that now - they will be good citizens.
The bottom line: Immigrants participate IN democracy, contribute economically, and appreciate freedoms many take for granted.