Grammys & Beyond: How Celebrities Are Using Their Platforms to Protest ICE
The 66th Annual Grammy Awards weren’t just a celebration of music; they became another visible platform for protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Kehlani’s explicit “fuck ICE” during her acceptance speech for Best R&B Performance (“Folded”) was a stark moment, but it was far from isolated. A growing number of artists, including Billie Eilish, Justin and Hailey Bieber, Bon Iver, and Samara Joy, wore “ICE Out” pins, signaling a unified stance against the agency’s practices.
From Red Carpets to the Streets: The Rise of Celebrity Activism
This isn’t a new phenomenon. The “ICE Out” movement gained momentum at the Golden Globes and Sundance Film Festival, sparked by the deaths of Renée Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. The pins represent a direct response to perceived ICE brutality and a desire to amplify the voices of those impacted by immigration policies. Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon, speaking to Variety on the Grammys red carpet, explicitly linked the celebration to the ongoing work of community organizers in Minneapolis, praising those who “blow the whistle when they see ICE come in.” This highlights a crucial shift: celebrities aren’t just acknowledging the issue, they’re actively connecting it to grassroots movements.
This trend reflects a broader societal change. A 2023 Pew Research Center study found that 67% of Americans believe celebrities should use their platforms to speak out on social and political issues. However, the effectiveness of such activism is often debated. Critics argue it can be performative or overshadow the work of activists on the ground. Yet, the sheer visibility these protests generate undeniably brings attention to critical issues.
Beyond ICE: A Wider Embrace of Social Justice at Awards Shows
The Grammys weren’t solely focused on ICE. Shaboozey, winning for Best Country Duo/Group Performance (“Amen” with Jelly Roll), used his platform to champion immigrants, stating, “Immigrants built this country, literally.” This demonstrates a broadening of the scope of social justice messaging at high-profile events. Natalie Portman echoed this sentiment at Sundance, calling the current moment “devastating” and emphasizing the need to address ICE brutality. Mark Ruffalo, at the Golden Globes, articulated the discomfort many feel – wanting to celebrate artistic achievement while acknowledging the “not normal” political climate.
This willingness to blend celebration with protest suggests a growing expectation for public figures to take a stand. It’s no longer enough to simply create art; many feel a responsibility to use their influence to advocate for change. This pressure is amplified by social media, where statements and actions are instantly scrutinized and shared.
The Future of Activism at Awards Shows: What to Expect
Several trends are likely to shape the future of this phenomenon:
- Increased Specificity: We can expect to see artists focusing on increasingly specific issues within the broader immigration debate, such as family separation, detention conditions, and asylum processes.
- Collaboration with Activist Groups: More celebrities will likely partner directly with established immigration advocacy organizations to ensure their messaging is informed and impactful.
- Long-Term Commitment: The initial wave of “ICE Out” pins suggests a desire for sustained engagement, not just fleeting gestures. Expect to see continued advocacy beyond red carpets and acceptance speeches.
- Expansion to Other Issues: The model of using awards shows as platforms for protest will likely expand to encompass other pressing social and political issues, such as climate change, gun violence, and reproductive rights.
The rise of AI-generated content and deepfakes also presents a challenge. Authenticity will become even more crucial, and celebrities will need to demonstrate genuine commitment to the causes they support to maintain credibility.
Pro Tip: When evaluating celebrity activism, look beyond the headline-grabbing moments. Consider whether the artist is also donating to relevant organizations, using their platform to amplify the voices of activists, and engaging in sustained advocacy efforts.
FAQ
Q: Is celebrity activism effective?
A: It’s debated, but it undeniably raises awareness and can mobilize public opinion. Its long-term impact depends on sustained engagement and collaboration with grassroots movements.
Q: Why are celebrities protesting ICE specifically?
A: The protests are a response to perceived ICE brutality, particularly following the deaths of Renée Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis, and a broader concern about the agency’s immigration enforcement policies.
Q: Will this trend continue?
A: Likely, yes. Growing societal expectations for public figures to take a stand, combined with the power of social media, suggest that awards shows will continue to be used as platforms for protest.
Did you know? The “ICE Out” movement originated with grassroots organizers in Minneapolis and has since spread to national events, demonstrating the power of local activism to influence broader cultural conversations.
Want to learn more about immigration advocacy? Explore resources from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and Migration Policy Institute.
What are your thoughts on celebrities using their platforms for political statements? Share your opinion in the comments below!
