The family of famed artist Norman Rockwell has expressed deep concern over the use of his artwork in social media posts by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), stating that Rockwell would be “devastated” to see his art used in a context they believe supports the persecution of immigrant communities and people of color. This poignant sentiment was shared in an opinion piece released in USA Today.

Rockwell’s descendants—his son, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren—criticized DHS for using three of his paintings earlier this year without proper authorization. The family highlighted their disapproval, noting that the artwork was featured in posts that seemed to contradict the values Rockwell championed through his art.

One of the contentious posts, published in August on Facebook by DHS, included Rockwell’s 1971 painting “Salute the Flag” alongside the message, “Protect our American way of life.” Another post paired Rockwell’s imagery with a quote from Calvin Coolidge: “Those who do not want to be partakers of the American spirit ought not to settle in America.” These instances have sparked concern that the artist’s work is being used to promote divisive ideologies.