Actress Sydney Sweeney is facing online criticism for her volunteer efforts in her hometown of Spokane, Washington, where she is assisting wildfire victims. Sweeney, alongside her boyfriend Jonathan Herwitiz, has been working with organizations like World Central Kitchen to distribute meals to those affected by the ongoing wildfires.
Despite her efforts, some social media users have accused Sweeney of seeking positive publicity, linking her current actions to a controversial American Eagle advertising campaign from last year. The ad, which featured the tagline "good jeans" in reference to Sweeney's presumed genetics, sparked accusations of promoting eugenics and white supremacy, leading to a backlash that has seemingly resurfaced.
Comments on social media posts of Sweeney volunteering included remarks such as, "This is her way to absolve herself from her incredibly xenophobic jeans ad" and "What a great PR opportunity for her..." Some users questioned the sincerity of her actions, with one commenter stating, "No, this doesn't change my opinion of her."
However, many fans have defended Sweeney, praising her for her kindness and calling her a role model. Comments supporting her included, "What a fantastic role model she is for our young girls" and "Whether its a publicity stunt or not, at least she's doing something for people in need."
Sweeney revealed earlier this week that her own family members have been impacted by the wildfires, which have scorched over 10,546 acres and affected at least 700 structures, according to government officials. She expressed her deep connection to Spokane, describing it as the place where she grew up and where her family still resides. The actress noted that the "devastating fires have changed countless lives" and that "thousands of families have lost their homes, their belongings, and places of business, including members of my own family."
Sweeney emphasized that Spokane, unlike larger cities, does not receive the same level of national attention and resources. She shared links to local organizations assisting with relief efforts, including the Innovia Foundation, SpokAnimal, Watch Duty, and Second Harvest, urging support for her hometown during its difficult time. She stated, "Thank you for standing with my hometown during one of its most difficult moments."
The backlash to her American Eagle campaign last year intensified due to reports that Sweeney is a registered Republican. In response to the criticism at the time, Sweeney stated in a GQ interview that she was surprised by the reaction but maintained her fondness for jeans, which she wears daily. She also recently purchased a house in Los Angeles that her great-grandparents once owned, a move she described as meaningful for her family's history. Her family relocated to Los Angeles from Spokane after the 2008 economic crash, which led to her father losing his job and the family losing their home.