Artists Use the Grammy Awards to Condemn US Immigration Enforcement and Call for Compassion
The 2026 Grammy Awards, held in Los Angeles, became a major platform for political expression as several prominent artists spoke out against US immigration enforcement policies during their acceptance speeches. The most forceful moment came from Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny, who, after winning the award for best música urbana album, explicitly condemned Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Declaring ‘ICE out’ before thanking God, Bad Bunny rejected dehumanising rhetoric around migrants and urged audiences to respond to hate with love rather than violence.
His comments came amid heightened national tension over immigration operations, particularly in Minneapolis, where federal immigration agents recently shot and killed two residents, Renee Good and Alex Pretti. The deaths sparked widespread protests and criticism from lawmakers across party lines, prompting the US Department of Justice to open a civil rights investigation into Pretti’s killing. President Donald Trump and his border policy chief, Tom Homan, acknowledged the unrest and suggested a possible de-escalation of federal operations in the state, though officials maintained that immigration enforcement would continue.
Other Grammy winners echoed Bad Bunny’s message. British singer Olivia Dean, who won best new artist, highlighted her family’s immigrant roots through her Windrush-generation grandmother and emphasized the contributions of immigrant communities. Billie Eilish, accepting the song of the year award, expressed uncertainty but encouraged continued protest and public engagement. Country artist Shaboozey dedicated his first Grammy win to immigrants, crediting his Nigerian-born mother for her sacrifices.
Political symbolism extended beyond the stage, with many attendees wearing white pins reading “ICE OUT” on the red carpet. Artists such as Kehlani and Gloria Estefan reinforced the idea that musicians have a responsibility to reflect societal issues. Estefan, herself an immigrant, warned that current policies risk undermining democratic values. Collectively, the speeches underscored how the Grammys, while celebrating music, also reflected deep divisions and ongoing debates in American society over immigration and human rights.