The phrase "say her name" has long been associated with the Black Lives Matter movement, symbolizing the call for recognition and justice for black victims of police violence. However, recent developments have seen a shift in the narrative. The hashtag is now being used to draw attention to the tragic case of Laken Riley, a college student whose death has become a focal point in the broader discussions surrounding immigration, crime, and border control in the United States.

Origins of "Say Her Name"

The "say her name" movement emerged in 2015 following the death of Sandra Bland, a black woman who died in police custody. The phrase aimed to bring attention to the perceived overlooked experiences of black women in cases of police brutality. Over the years, it has been used to shed light on other similar incidents, becoming synonymous with the Black Lives Matter movement.

Shifting Focus to Laken Riley

The evolution of this phrase is evident in the passionate tweets flooding the digital realm. No longer confined to discussions within the Black Lives Matter framework, the hashtag is now a vessel for those critical of U.S. open border policies. Laken Riley's name is invoked, not as a symbol of racial injustice, but as an emblem of the broader debate on immigration and its alleged connection to crime rates. Social media users, predominantly critical of U.S. open borders policies, use the hashtag to draw attention to specific cases like Riley's, framing them as direct consequences of lax immigration control.

Twitter users engaging in the "say her name" discussion often critique political figures like Joe Biden for what they perceive as failures in addressing the issues of immigration and crime. The critiques are passionate, with many expressing anger and making demands for stronger border controls. This discussion completely overrides previous associations with the “say her name” movement.

With the invocation of Laken Riley's name and using the "say her name" hashtag, right-wing immigration hawks have added a personal and emotional element to the discussion. The narrative emphasizes the human cost of open border policies, presenting Riley as a symbol of the potential dangers associated with illegal immigration. Many are demanding accountability and action, holding political figures responsible for ensuring the safety of American citizens.

Conclusion

The evolution of the "say her name" narrative, from its origins in the Black Lives Matter movement to its current use in discussions surrounding Laken Riley's case, highlights the complex intersection of race, immigration, and crime in the United States and the right’s ability to co-opt a leftist narrative.