“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”
It is safe to say that the United States is currently in a state of grievance, anxiety, and anger. When our government makes the choice to silence the voices of individuals without status, it is the responsibility of those in power to speak up for them. This idea was made a reality on February 1st at the 68th Grammy Awards. From their music, to their fashion, to their words, these celebrities utilized their platform to demonstrate the most human and most American thing there is: freedom of speech.
First, I want to acknowledge the significant few celebrities who wore “ICE OUT” and “BE GOOD” pins at the Golden Globes as a form of silent protest, most notably Mark Ruffalo. I am sure their actions and the impact of them are what compelled guests such as Justin Bieber and Billie Eilish to wear those pins as well in solidarity. It’s these small actions that make individuals feel a little less alone and unheard. While the gap in wealth between them is significant, it does not impact one’s humanity and sympathy for others in difficult times.
As music is one of the most magical forms of expression, it has been used as a method of protest since the beginning of time. Two songs related to advocating for social change were recognized at the Grammys: “Ice Cream Man” by RAYE, which won the Harry Belafonte Best Song For Social Change Award during Grammy Week 2026, and “Anxiety” by Doechii, which was nominated for both Song of the Year and Record of the Year. It is beautiful when we can hear the personal pain or joy an artist is trying to express in their music, but even more powerful when they acknowledge a pain or struggle the entire world is facing.
Trevor Noah, the host of this year’s Grammys, started off the night by making anti-Trump and anti-Nicki Minaj jokes. He provided an example of protesting through your passion, his being comedy. Next, my new favorite phrase: “F*ck ICE,” which was spoken many times that night. I just love how it’s straight to the point: people will no longer tolerate the hate and fear proliferated by the Trump administration. Almost every single Grammy awardee used time in their speech to speak out against the harmful actions the administration has made towards immigrants, citizens, noncitizens, and all people, really. In addition, to acknowledge the work, strength, and importance of immigrants, and also to provide a hopeful message for the audience.
I won’t go through every speech, but some meaningful quotes include:
“Together we’re stronger in numbers to speak against all the injustice going on in the world right now.” Kehlani in her speech for the Best R&B Song award.
“I’m up here as the granddaughter of an immigrant.” – Olivia Dean in her speech for Best New Artist.
“Immigrants built this country, so this is for them… You give America color.” – Shaboozey in his speech for the Best Country Duo/Group Performance award.
“ICE out. We’re not savages, we’re not animals, we are humans and we are Americans.” – Bad Bunny in his speech for the Best Música Urbana Album award.
Each speech portrayed important messages that they needed to say, and we needed to hear. The whole point of award shows like the Grammys is to uplift hard-working people who are passionate about their craft, and their uplifting of hard-working immigrants reminds us that we are all human. It is not only within our capability but also our responsibility to look out for each other. Their words were truly inspiring, both in showing Americans that they are not alone in their frustration and in helping people believe that there are brighter days ahead.
The last significant moment I want to mention is Bad Bunny’s Album of the Year award speech. He is from Puerto Rico, which is indeed a part of the United States, in case you didn’t know. In his speech, he spoke almost entirely in Spanish. Anyone who was annoyed by that can close this tab and read something else because that speech was not for us; it was for his people, for representation, and for equality. His choice to do this was a powerful act of resistance and resilience.
The Spanish language is just as American as the English language. 12.6% of people in America speak Spanish. 20.3% of Americans speak a language other than English. The impact of immigrants is impossible to ignore, no matter how hard people try. This country was built by immigrants, and with the purpose of fighting for equality. Bad Bunny’s speech demonstrated pride in his heritage and the Puerto Rican people.
One last thing I need to make sure everyone knows: no one is illegal on stolen land. Don’t forget your history, stay informed and engaged on current events, and never stop fighting for what you believe in.
