In a powerful display of solidarity, artists including Joni Mitchell, Kehlani, and Justin Vernon of Bon Iver took a stand against the harsh immigration policies of the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at the 2026 Grammy Awards. Adorning themselves with “Ice Out” and “Be Good” pins, these musicians used the prestigious platform to voice their dissent and rally for change.
A Night of Celebration and Protest
As the music industry gathered to celebrate its brightest talents, the atmosphere was charged with activism. Kehlani, who won her first Grammy for Best R&B Performance for her hit “Folded,” made headlines with her passionate acceptance speech. “I’ve never won anything before; this is a really crazy feeling,” she expressed, reflecting on her decade-long journey in the industry. With her words, she urged her fellow artists to unite in standing against injustice, boldly concluding with an emphatic, “F**k ICE.”
Justin Vernon, whose group Bon Iver was nominated for Best Alternative Music Album, also made a statement by wearing a whistle, symbolising support for legal observers documenting ICE’s actions on the streets. “Music exists to heal and to bring people together,” he remarked, acknowledging the critical role those on the ground play in advocating for justice.
A Collective Call to Action
The movement gained momentum in the lead-up to the Grammys, with activists distributing pins at various events to encourage celebrities to take a stand. This effort culminated in a notable show of support at the Grammy Awards, surpassing previous demonstrations at events like the Golden Globes. Celebrities including Amy Allen, Rhiannon Giddens, and Margo Price joined the ranks of those donning the symbolic pins, amplifying the message against ICE.
Public sentiment has shifted markedly, fueled by a series of distressing incidents involving federal agents and civilians. The tragic shooting of ICU nurse Alex Pretti by immigration officers in Minneapolis last month has ignited protests across the nation, prompting artists to lend their voices to the outcry against such enforcement tactics.
Visibility in the Spotlight
The activism wasn’t confined to the Grammys. At the recent Sundance Film Festival, numerous stars including Natalie Portman and Olivia Wilde sported “ICE OUT” pins, furthering the movement. Wilde expressed her horror over a spate of violent encounters, stating, “It’s really difficult to be here celebrating something so joyous when we know what’s happening on the streets.” Her words echoed the sentiments of many, as she highlighted the need for those in positions of influence to use their platforms for advocacy.
Portman, visibly emotional, shared her reasons behind wearing the pin, emphasising the urgent need for change. The collective act of wearing these pins at high-profile events signifies a growing recognition among celebrities of their power to effect social change.
Why it Matters
The actions taken by these artists at the Grammy Awards serve not only as a powerful protest against the troubling practices of ICE but also highlight the role of celebrities in shaping public discourse. As more voices join the chorus calling for justice, the visibility of these issues increases, potentially influencing policy and public opinion. In a time of division and uncertainty, the arts continue to be a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change, reminding us all of the power of unity and collective action.
