ICE 'Defend The Homeland' Recruitment Billboard Sparks Outrage In Framingham

An ICE recruitment campaign placing "Defend the homeland" billboards at electric vehicle charging stations in Shoppers World mall in Framingham sparked swift backlash from residents. The ads, which featured Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, were visible only for a few hours but prompted complaints that they instill fear among immigrant communities and could deter children from returning to school. Community members and a man whose wife was detained criticized the messaging and contacted mall management to file complaints. Urban Edge Properties, which represents the mall, said the ads were sold by third parties and do not reflect the company's mission.