HONY’s Founder Takes Strong Stand
New York, New York — Humans of New York Photographer and token “good guy,” Brandon Stanton has come out with a fearless open letter to Donald Trump.
“I try not to be political,” he began on the March 14 Facebook post.
“Because along with millions of Americans, I’ve come to realize that opposing you is no longer a political decision. It is a moral one,” he continued, acting as though this viewpoint was one that was not universally shared with anyone and everyone who isn’t racist, sexist and classist for about a year already.
Stanton went on to say that Donald Trump’s views against Muslims and those of Middle Eastern descent are “racist” — which he knows firsthand only because he has spent time taking pictures of those people. Without his trip across nations such as Iran, Iraq and Pakistan, which has made him thousands of dollars and gotten him even more social media fame, Stanton clearly would not have known that those living in the Middle East are also human beings who have rights.
The underwhelming statement was generally well-received by many who believe that whenever a celebrity makes a statement, no matter how non-committal, it is a triumph for humanity.
“Wow!! so brave!!” Facebook commenter Angela Truscani, whose profile picture is a low quality JPEG of Miss Piggy, said. “u r inspiration to youth of 2day!!!”
“It’s so important for you to say these things,” Mariam Abbadi agreed. “Although making this statement in no way endangers or inconveniences you — in fact, it benefits more than anything, given your audience — it’s still so hard for you, who makes a career out of other people’s misfortunes, to take a definite political stance.”
Abbadi followed her statement with many stickers, most of which were the same heart-eyes emoji.
However, not as many commenters were so kind.
“i never got to see part 3 of the one about the woman who lost her husband,” Patricia Inez wrote, clearly challenging the patriarchal notion that whenever a man says anything, no matter how baseline or average, he is heralded as profound and daring.
Another commenter, Ellie Turot, who was clearly outraged at the low standard Stanton is held to, stated, “My granddaughter has your picture book.”
Neither Stanton nor Trump could be reached for comment.
Grace Rychwalski is a junior writing major who spends most of her time co-opting other people’s struggles for her own gain. You can email her at [email protected].