The 2026 Grammy Awards ceremony transformed from a celebration of musical excellence into a powerful platform for political protest, with multiple artists using their acceptance speeches to condemn the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement tactics.
Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny delivered the evening’s most explicit political statement upon winning Best Música Urbana Album. Before offering thanks, he demanded ‘ICE out’ in reference to Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers. ‘We’re not savages, we’re not animals, we’re not aliens – we’re humans,’ he declared from the stage, advocating for love over hate in addressing national divisions.
The protests followed weeks of escalating tension across American cities, particularly in Minneapolis where federal agents recently shot and killed two Americans—37-year-old nurse Alex Pretti and Renee Good—sparking nationwide outcry and a Justice Department civil rights investigation. These incidents have intensified scrutiny of administration tactics that have targeted both criminal migrants and those without criminal histories.
The political messaging extended throughout the event. British singer Olivia Dean, honored as Best New Artist, celebrated her immigrant heritage as the granddaughter of Windrush generation immigrant Carmen. Country artist Shaboozy dedicated his first Grammy win for Best Country Duo Performance to immigrants, acknowledging his Nigerian mother who worked multiple jobs to support her family.
Even before the ceremony began, the red carpet showcased solidarity with many artists wearing white ‘ICE OUT’ pins. R&B winner Kehlani articulated the artistic imperative to ‘reflect the times,’ while legendary performer Gloria Estefan expressed deep concern about America’s direction backstage, emphasizing that those being arrested ‘have contributed to this country for decades.’
Billie Eilish, winning Song of the Year for ‘Wildflower,’ encouraged continued activism: ‘Our voices really do matter, and the people matter.’ Despite administration officials suggesting potential de-escalation in Minnesota, the night belonged to artists determined to use their platform for social commentary.