In what feels like another day of astonishing claims and head-scratching comments, certain figures have managed to put their foot in it once more. On the chopping block this time are Congresswoman Ilhan Omar and actress Whoopi Goldberg, both making outrageous comments about the good old USA and how it compares to, of all places, Iran. Their apparent disregard for reality is almost impressive, if not downright bewildering.
Ilhan Omar, in a moment of unrestrained hyperbole, declared that the United States has devolved into one of the world’s worst countries. She talked about military parades and hinted at dictatorial tendencies, conveniently ignoring that parades have been a staple in celebrating national pride across the globe. It seems a bit rich for someone who fled from a country marred by civil war, like Somalia, to unfavorably compare the U.S. to other nations. America, with its robust democratic institutions and freedoms, appears to have fallen short of her standards, despite being the very sanctuary she sought.
Then, there’s Whoopi Goldberg on “The View,” suggesting that life for black people in America today is somehow comparable to the oppressive regime of Iran. One must wonder if she missed the memo about the very real dangers faced by Iranians who protest in the streets or by those who live lifestyles not sanctioned by their government. Comparing today’s America, where freedom of speech is alive and well, to a place where dissent can literally be a death sentence is not just misleading—it’s offensive to those who’ve suffered under true tyranny.
It is true that America has its struggles and imperfections—no one sensible denies that. However, lambasting the nation while enjoying its liberties to make such criticisms freely, without fear of persecution, reveals a lack of perspective. Perhaps Whoopi could consider that her ability to make millions and share her opinions on national television without consequence is a testament to the unique freedoms offered by this country.
Criticizing the United States while ignoring the abysmal human rights records elsewhere doesn’t do justice to the real progress achieved here. Americans take pride in their ability to address past wrongs, like celebrating Juneteenth, which marks the end of slavery. For an actress who once captivated audiences with her roles in science-fiction, perhaps her latest critique belongs in a fantasy realm.
Ultimately, it’s bewildering to see figures like Omar and Goldberg make such puzzling comparisons. Perhaps it’s time they disembark from their private jets for a more grounded view of the world. The real story here should focus on protecting freedoms, not creating false narratives. After all, it’s these liberties that allow even the most absurd opinions to be aired so publicly. And maybe, just maybe, a little gratitude for the freedoms they enjoy would go a long way in the court of public opinion.
