The Grammys are one of the biggest nights for artists; this time, the winners took the stage to use their voices and speak out against ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement). With the ongoing ICE attacks and raids in the United States and this state of political horror, the winners and attendees made sure their voices were heard. Many notable attendees came to the Grammys wearing white pins saying “ICE OUT” to stand up to the ICE raids. I notably want to discuss Olivia Dean, Billie Eilish, and Bad Bunny’s acceptance speeches.
Olivia Dean won her very first Grammy as Best New Artist. Some of Olivia Dean’s most popular songs that helped her win this Grammy include: “Man I Need” and “So Easy (To Fall In Love).” In Olivia Dean’s acceptance speech, she gave gratitude to her family, friends, and team. Olivia Dean notably says, “I guess I want to say I am up here as a granddaughter of an immigrant. I wouldn’t be here [pause], I am a product of bravery, and those people deserve to be celebrated.” Olivia Dean expresses her respect and gratitude towards immigrants and believes that we work best when we work together. Her speech is a wonderful tribute to the immigrants in her family and a great advocate for immigrants in the United States.
Billie Eilish won her 10th Grammy award, Song of the Year for “Wildflower” at the 2026 Grammys. In Billie Eilish’s acceptance speech, she shouts out the other nominees in the category and expresses to the audience and listeners at home about the horrific state of the United States. Billie Eilish says, “No one is illegal on stolen land. It’s just really hard what to say and what to do right now… I feel like we need to keep fighting… and our, our voice really do matter.”
Billie Eilish has always believed in the importance of if you have the power and influence, you should speak and stand up for what’s right. Billie Eilish continues to advocate for immigrant rights and justice. Her speech is a great example of what those who should be doing, who influence to change the mindset and perception, and to continue to fight for immigrant rights.
Bad Bunny (Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio) won his 6th Grammy award, Album of the Year for his album “DeBí TiRaR MáS FOtoS” at the 2026 Grammys. In Bad Bunny’s acceptance speech, he calls out the current administration about how they are handling the ICE raids and attacks, during a time of fear for immigrants in the United States. Bad Bunny specifically says, “Before I say thanks to God, I’m going to say ICE out. We’re not savage, we’re not animals, we’re not aliens. We are humans, and we are Americans…” Donald Trump and members of his administration continue to label immigrants as “aliens” and “animals” and continue to believe that they are less than humans. This is truly disgusting behavior by the administration, so for those who have the influence, like Bad Bunny, to speak out against our administration is truly a testament to their character and to stand up for what’s right. Also in Bad Bunny’s speech, he says, “…I want to dedicate this award to all the people that had to leave their homeland, their country to follow their dreams.” Bad Bunny acknowledges those who had to leave their homes to discover a new land to chase their dreams that they were unable to reach. His speech highlighted the horror that this administration has put immigrants through and the risks they have taken to leave their homes.
These Grammy winners that I have highlighted used their voices and time on the stage to advocate for something so important and so critical during times like these. I think that these are the kinds of things that people with influence and power should be doing and continue to do.