Christy Walton, an heiress of the Walmart dynasty, is under scrutiny for sponsoring a significant advertisement published in The New York Times. The advertisement, carefully worded to avoid directly naming President Donald Trump, interestingly encourages national civil demonstrations. Crafted with progressive ideals and couched phrases usually targeted towards contesting authoritarian regimes and contesting governmental high-handedness, the ad appears to indirectly challenge President Trump’s leadership.
Launched strategically prior to Trump’s highly anticipated military-focused public gathering scheduled for June 14, the advertisement bears the hard-hitting headline “NO KINGS”. It looks to resonate with the mantra of the ‘No Kings’ movement, an organization at the helm of coordinating more than 1,800 tranquil protests spread across America.
The mission of these public assemblies, according to the spokesperson of the group, Andrew Cook, is to uplift democratic principles and stand against perceived unconstitutional rhetoric and behaviour associated with the Trump administration. The advertisement carries the assertion, “We, the United States of America, are a people of valor, pride, and righteousness. The honor, reputation, and robustness of our nation are untradable. Our governance is formulated for the people, by the people, and of the people.”
The ad, moving further, manifest the advocacy for societal bonds, “We look out for our young and older generations. We hold in high regard our compatriots and commerce counterparts. We advocate for the welfare of both national and global economic, societal, and environmental fabrics. We are entrusted with the mantle of ensuring the rule of law is upheld globally.”
In reaction to the advertisement’s release, Walton’s representative clarified, “The personal message, sponsored by Christy Walton and published, underscores the importance of people’s peaceful, civic participation in the forthcoming events at the weekend. It bears no connection to the recent happenings that have been unfolding.” The further clarification noted that “Christy Walton has no monetary contribution linked to entities or persons who were part of the demonstrations that took place in other cities, neither has she financially supported those charged with arranging future gatherings.”
The spokesperson insightfully adds, “Her interest lies in inspiring folks to listen to each other, take active roles in their localities, and constructively address issues that they are passionate about. While Walton is an advocate for the right to stage protests as a tenet of democracy, she strongly asserts that freedom does not extend to causing harm. She strongly stands against all forms of violent acts and graces messages that foster civic involvement, peaceful discourse, and the exchange of diverse perspectives and voices.”
Subsequently, the Walmart corporation stepped back from Walton’s activities in an official admission, specifying, “We unequivocally denounce all violent conducts, inclusive of those targeted at law enforcement, and damage to properties.” They stated, “Walmart, as an entity with stakeholders and patrons in the affected region, our leading focus is on ensuring their safety and that of beleaguered communities.
The provision of advertising space by Christy Walton has no links or passes any form of endorsement from Walmart. Christy Walton does not form part of our decision-making board nor does she play any role in Walmart’s business choices,” the release from the Walmart corporation read.
The White House responded more bluntly. An official communication from its spokesperson pulled up Walton’s messaging as elitist and alienated from the voter base. “Fantastic, we have a wealthy liberal billionaire spending her fortune for a publicity stunt,” cut back their retort.
It won’t alter the reality that over 77 million American citizens cast their votes for intensive surveillance at borders, homeland security, and ‘America First’ trade policies — a charge which the Trump administration has sworn to propel using all accessible executive capabilities.”