Artist Activism Shines at the Grammys Amid Immigration Controversy

Wed Feb 04 2026 04:58:28 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

At this year's Grammys, celebrities took a stand against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, showcasing solidarity through protest pins and powerful speeches. The event served as a platform for artists to voice their concerns over the ongoing immigration issues, reflecting a growing cultural movement amidst the Trump administration's policies.

As the Grammy Awards unfolded, the entertainment industry found itself at the intersection of artistry and activism amidst heightened immigration issues in the Trump era. Activists mobilized to encourage stars to wear protest pins, advocating for the removal of ICE from communities. This year's event saw a notable increase in participation compared to previous ceremonies, with many artists employing their platforms to raise awareness about immigration-related abuses and violence. The response indicates a strong shift in the cultural dialogue surrounding immigration, with celebrities no longer silent in the face of political turmoil.

The ongoing awards season has highlighted the tension between the artistic community and the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement policies, particularly in Minneapolis, where mass deportations have sparked public outrage. With the Grammys serving as a focal point, many artists openly expressed their dissent against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) presence in their communities.

This year, activists approached the Grammys with renewed determination, urging celebrities to don protest pins during the ceremony. The backing gained momentum after tragic incidents involving Border Patrol agents triggered widespread concern across the country. Public sentiment shifted following the shooting of nurse Alex Pretti and the detention of 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos, coupled with the arrest of journalist Don Lemon.

Artists such as Jason Isbell, Margo Price, and Kehlani participated in the red carpet protest, with Kehlani directly condemning ICE during her acceptance speech. Others, like Vernon from Bon Iver, utilized their visibility to honor legal observers documenting ICE's actions. The statements are reminiscent of a broader cultural revolt against the punitive immigration practices endorsed by the government.

Leading up to the event, Mexican American singer Becky G made headlines at the MusiCares gala with emphatic messages against ICE, while Sundance Film Festival celebrities voiced similar sentiments, sparking conversation on the accountability of the entertainment industry amidst current events.

With the Grammys attracting a spirited and often rebellious crowd, community organizer Jess Morales Rocketto highlighted that the medium of music provides a platform for activism and expression. Despite the powerful pushes for political engagement, challenges remain; many celebrities face pressures and potential backlash from corporate partners when addressing politically charged topics.

“It’s a complex landscape,” Morales Rocketto noted, emphasizing that even well-known figures can experience real threats regarding their safety related to the ongoing immigration crisis. Ultimately, the fashion statements and speeches at the Grammys represent more than just artistic expression; they signal a collective call for justice and solidarity in the face of adversity.