The 2026 Grammy Awards resonated with a powerful message of activism as prominent artists voiced their dissent against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). With a series of poignant statements and symbolic gestures, personalities including Kehlani, Joni Mitchell, and Margo Price made it clear that they stand united in the fight against systemic injustices, particularly in light of recent tragedies in the United States.
A Night of Unity and Activism
As the stars graced the red carpet in Los Angeles, many adorned themselves with “ICE out” pins, a visible expression of solidarity with ongoing protests against ICE, particularly in Minneapolis, where the recent deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti sparked outrage and calls for change. This initiative began earlier in the awards season at the Golden Globes, where celebrities also wore pins that read “Be Good” in memory of Good, who tragically lost her life to gun violence at the hands of an ICE agent on January 7.
Kehlani, a prominent voice in the music industry, didn’t shy away from sharing her thoughts. On the red carpet, she expressed her disdain for ICE with a striking declaration: “I wanted to say f*** ICE. But I think they needed some couth on the carpet or something. I’m a little couthless ruthless.” Her unapologetic stance served as a rallying cry, imploring her fellow artists to leverage their collective influence to address pressing societal issues.
Powerful Acceptance Speeches
The energy of activism continued into the acceptance speeches of the evening. Kehlani, who picked up awards for Best R&B Song and Best R&B Performance for her track “Folded,” reiterated her call for unity and action against injustice. “Together, we’re stronger in numbers, [and we must] speak against all the injustice going on in the world right now,” she articulated passionately. She concluded her powerful speech with the same bold sentiment, declaring once more: “F*** ICE.”
Joni Mitchell, another iconic figure in music, also showcased her solidarity by wearing the “ICE out” pin while accepting her award for Best Historical Album for “Joni Mitchell Archives – Volume 4: The Asylum Years — 1976-1980.” Her presence on stage, coupled with her commitment to the cause, underscored the importance of using platforms for advocacy.
Voices of the Community
Other artists who joined this movement included Brandi Carlile, Jason Isbell, and Rhiannon Giddens, all of whom donned the “ICE out” pins. Justin Vernon of Bon Iver took his support a step further by wearing a whistle, a nod to those brave individuals documenting the actions of ICE officers. He remarked, “I think there’s a reason that music exists and it’s to heal and to bring people together. But the real work is done by those observers on the ground in Minneapolis. We just want to shout them out.”
The evening, while celebrating musical achievements, transformed into a platform for highlighting critical social issues, demonstrating how art and activism can intertwine to effect change.
Why it Matters
The statements made at the Grammy Awards not only amplify the voices of those affected by ICE’s policies but also highlight the growing awareness and activism within the entertainment industry. In an era where artists wield significant influence, their willingness to confront uncomfortable truths and advocate for justice can inspire fans and fellow creators alike to engage in meaningful dialogue and action. The Grammys this year serve as a reminder of the power of solidarity in the face of injustice, encouraging a collective commitment to a more equitable future.
