A Michigan state lawmaker is drawing criticism online for mistakenly referring to a college basketball team traveling to Detroit as “illegal invaders.”
State Representative Matthew Maddock, a Republican from Milford, posted a picture on Wednesday night showing three buses on a tarmac near an Allegiant Airlines jet at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport.
In his post, he wrote, “Happening right now. Three busses just loaded up with illegal invaders at Detroit Metro. Anyone have any idea where they’re headed with their police escort?”
However, the buses were actually transporting teams participating in the NCAA men’s basketball tournament, which is holding its Midwest Region semifinals and finals at Little Caesars Arena in downtown Detroit over the weekend.
The teams involved include Gonzaga, Purdue, Creighton, and Tennessee. An airport spokesperson confirmed that the buses in the photo were indeed carrying the basketball teams.
Despite the backlash and ridicule on the internet, Maddock has not removed the post. Instead, he appeared to stand by his remarks, suggesting that there is a larger issue of undocumented migration that needs to be addressed.
While Maddock’s comments sparked controversy, they also raised concerns about the use of inflammatory language and its potential consequences. Critics argue that such rhetoric can contribute to the dehumanization of marginalized groups and incite violence.
Sam Inglot, the executive director of Progress Michigan, a progressive advocacy group, emphasized the importance of holding politicians accountable for their language and its impact on communities. He stressed that irresponsible rhetoric can sow division and put people at risk.