Latino Stars Who Slammed ICE

Immigration enforcement in the United States has long been a contentious issue that draws sharp criticism from the entertainment industry. Many prominent Latino celebrities have used their platforms to condemn the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and advocate for policy reform. These stars frequently speak out against family separations and the conditions found within detention centers at the border. Their activism often involves participating in protests or visiting facilities to witness the treatment of migrants firsthand. The following figures have publicly voiced their opposition to the tactics employed by federal immigration agencies.

Diane Guerrero

The actress has been one of the most vocal critics of immigration enforcement after experiencing it firsthand as a child. Guerrero watched her parents and brother get deported by agents while she remained in the United States alone at age fourteen. She wrote the memoir ‘In the Country We Love’ to detail the trauma inflicted by the broken immigration system. Her advocacy focuses on the psychological damage family separation causes to young children. She frequently appears in media campaigns to demand the dismantling of current detention practices.

America Ferrera

Ferrera has consistently mobilized her network of celebrity friends to visit the southern border and observe detention conditions. She organized the Harness organization to amplify the stories of families affected by deportation raids. The actress expressed outrage after seeing the living situations of women and children in federal custody. She frequently writes op-eds and speaks at rallies to condemn the dehumanization of asylum seekers. Her activism seeks to hold government agencies accountable for their treatment of migrants.

John Leguizamo

The award-winning actor and playwright often uses social media to deliver blistering critiques of federal immigration tactics. Leguizamo has called the treatment of Latinos in detention centers a violation of basic human rights. He frequently highlights the contributions of immigrants to American society to counter negative narratives. His one-man shows often incorporate political commentary regarding the demonization of the Latinx community. He remains a steadfast voice demanding dignity for undocumented individuals.

Cardi B

The chart-topping rapper is known for her unfiltered political commentary regarding government spending and policy. Cardi B has posted multiple viral videos expressing her anger over the treatment of immigrants at the border. She questioned why tax dollars were being used to fund an agency that separates children from their parents. Her statements often point out the hypocrisy in how different immigrant groups are treated in the United States. She uses her massive social media following to educate fans on the severity of the crisis.

Lin-Manuel Miranda

The creator of ‘Hamilton’ has used his artistic influence to raise millions of dollars for immigrant legal defense funds. Miranda publicly denounced the zero-tolerance policy that led to the separation of thousands of families. He partnered with various non-profit organizations to reunite children with their parents after federal intervention. His advocacy emphasizes the need for compassionate legislative reform rather than punitive enforcement. He continues to support coalitions that provide resources to those facing deportation proceedings.

Jennifer Lopez

Lopez used her performance at the Super Bowl halftime show to make a powerful visual statement about immigration. The show featured children singing inside illuminated cage structures to represent minors in detention centers. She stated in interviews that she wanted to protest the treatment of Latino children at the border. The performance served as a global critique of the policies enforced by immigration authorities. Her artistic choice sparked widespread conversation about the humanitarian crisis.

Shakira

The Colombian superstar has spoken out against policies that prevent refugees from finding safety in the United States. Shakira described the separation of families at the border as incredibly cruel and savage. She urged government leaders to consider the long-term trauma being inflicted on innocent children. Her philanthropic work often focuses on early childhood development and the need for stable home environments. She consistently advocates for the humane treatment of all people regardless of their legal status.

Eva Longoria

Longoria has been a political activist for years and frequently organizes delegations to visit border facilities. She co-founded the Latino Victory Fund to support candidates who push for comprehensive immigration reform. The actress has expressed horror at the conditions she witnessed inside detention centers. She argues that the actions taken by enforcement agencies do not reflect American values. Her work focuses on empowering the Latino community to vote for policy changes.

Salma Hayek Pinault

Hayek launched a campaign to support legal defense funds for families targeted by immigration raids. She publicly condemned the practice of separating nursing mothers from their infants in detention. The actress used her social media presence to share stories of individuals affected by strict enforcement policies. She has called for an immediate end to the criminalization of asylum seekers. Her activism highlights the specific vulnerabilities of women and children in the migration process.

Ricky Martin

The singer has been a fierce advocate for Puerto Rico and the broader Latino community regarding federal neglect and hostility. Martin described the images of children in cages as a violation of human decency. He stated that the psychological scars from such treatment would last a lifetime for the victims. He frequently participates in marches and rallies to demand justice for marginalized communities. His foundation works to combat human trafficking which is often exacerbated by unsafe migration routes.

Demi Lovato

Lovato shared her dismay regarding the treatment of families at the southern border through her social channels. She posted messages encouraging her followers to donate to organizations providing legal aid to migrants. The singer emphasized that seeking a better life should not be met with incarceration. She called for a compassionate approach to the humanitarian crisis rather than strict enforcement. Her statements aligned with her broader advocacy for mental health and human rights.

Selena Gomez

Gomez served as the executive producer for the documentary series ‘Living Undocumented’ to expose the fear many families live in. She wrote a personal essay discussing her own family history and the sacrifices made by immigrants. The project aimed to humanize the individuals who are often reduced to statistics by federal agencies. She criticized the way the immigration system tears families apart without regard for their well-being. Her involvement brought mainstream attention to the shadow world of deportation threats.

Camila Cabello

Cabello dedicated her performance at the Grammy Awards to Dreamers and those living in fear of deportation. She spoke about her own experience arriving in the United States as a child with almost nothing. The singer criticized the administration for creating a hostile environment for hardworking immigrants. She stated that this country was built by people who came here seeking opportunity. Her advocacy focuses on protecting the status of those protected under DACA.

Bad Bunny

The Puerto Rican reggaeton star has used music videos and award show appearances to protest political corruption and injustice. Bad Bunny has worn clothing with slogans criticizing the former president and his immigration policies. He paused a concert tour to join protests and often speaks about the dignity of Puerto Rico and Latin America. His platform amplifies the frustration many Latinos feel toward United States interventionism. He refuses to stay silent on issues affecting the Caribbean and Latin American diaspora.

Lauren Jauregui

Jauregui wrote an open letter to the president condemning his rhetoric and the actions of his administration. The singer expressed pride in her Cuban-American heritage and fiercely defended the rights of immigrants. She frequently tweets news stories about ICE raids to keep her fans informed about the reality of the situation. Her activism involves partnering with organizations that fight for the rights of undocumented youth. She argues that the current enforcement tactics are rooted in racism and xenophobia.

Gael García Bernal

The Mexican actor and director has produced documentaries that highlight the dangers migrants face while crossing the border. Bernal famously stated that walls only serve to divide humanity and create unnecessary suffering. He criticized the criminalization of migration during his appearances at international film festivals. His work often explores the shared history and interdependence of the United States and Mexico. He advocates for bridges and dialogue rather than militarized borders.

Diego Luna

Luna has partnered with the UNHCR to raise awareness about the refugee crisis in Central America. He directed ‘Cesar Chavez’ to highlight the historical struggle for labor rights among immigrant workers. The actor speaks out against the rhetoric that paints migrants as threats to national security. He urges the public to look at the root causes of migration rather than just the enforcement response. His activism seeks to protect the most vulnerable populations from exploitation.

Zoe Saldaña

Saldana launched a digital media platform meant to uplift Latino voices and counter negative stereotypes. She publicly demanded the reunification of families separated by the zero-tolerance policy. The actress emphasized that the United States is a nation of immigrants and should act with compassion. She joined other mothers in Hollywood to protest the detention of children. Her advocacy focuses on the importance of keeping family units together.

Rosario Dawson

Dawson is a longtime activist who has been arrested while protesting for various social justice causes. She consistently speaks out against the private prison industry which profits from immigrant detention. The actress co-founded Voto Latino to encourage civic engagement and challenge discriminatory policies. She highlights the intersection between mass incarceration and immigration enforcement. Her work aims to dismantle the systems that profit from human suffering.

Gina Rodriguez

Rodriguez used her scholarship fund to help an undocumented student attend college. She has spoken about the anxiety her own father felt regarding his status before becoming a resident. The actress advocates for better representation in media to humanize the Latinx experience. She condemned the administration for creating a culture of fear that silences victims of crime. Her work emphasizes the value of education for all students regardless of papers.

Becky G

The singer often shares the story of her grandparents to illustrate the pursuit of the American Dream. Becky G has criticized the labeling of immigrants as criminals by politicians and media outlets. She released music that celebrates her bicultural identity and challenges assimilation pressure. Her advocacy includes urging young Latinos to vote against candidates who support harsh enforcement. She promotes unity and pride within the Mexican-American community.

Residente

The founder of Calle 13 is known for his radical political lyrics and outspoken views on US imperialism. Residente frequently criticizes the treatment of Puerto Rico and the exploitation of Latin American resources. He has called the border wall a monument to fear and ignorance. His solo work often features stories of refugees and the struggles of the working class. He uses his global platform to demand respect for Latino sovereignty and rights.

Dascha Polanco

Polanco has spoken about the psychological toll that the threat of deportation takes on communities in New York City. She advocates for the rights of Afro-Latinos who often face compounded discrimination in the system. The actress emphasizes that being undocumented does not make a person less human. She supports organizations that provide mental health resources to immigrant families. Her activism highlights the diversity within the Latino community itself.

Jackie Cruz

Cruz has shared that her own mother was undocumented for a period of time to relate to current struggles. She released music videos that depict the reality of families being torn apart by agents. The actress speaks against the narrative that immigrants are a drain on the economy. She argues that the enforcement system is designed to keep people in the shadows. Her work aims to bring visibility to the resilience of undocumented women.

Fat Joe

The rapper visited protestors at the border to show solidarity with those demanding policy changes. Fat Joe compared the conditions in detention centers to human rights abuses occurring in other nations. He criticized the government for treating children like prisoners of war. His advocacy involves using his influence in the hip-hop community to raise awareness about immigration. He calls for unity among Black and Brown communities to fight systemic oppression.

Pitbull

Pitbull used his acceptance speech at a music awards show to warn politicians about messing with the Latino community. He emphasized that music and culture have no borders despite government attempts to build them. The artist frequently highlights the hard work and patriotism of immigrants in his interviews. He advocates for comprehensive reform that provides a pathway to citizenship. His message is one of empowerment and economic influence.

Marc Anthony

The salsa legend famously tweeted at the president to focus on Puerto Rico instead of picking fights with athletes. Anthony has spoken about the pain of seeing families separated by government policy. He used his concerts to preach unity and condemn divisive rhetoric against Latinos. His philanthropic efforts support orphanages and child welfare in Latin America. He consistently demands respect for the contributions of the Hispanic community.

Luis Fonsi

Fonsi released statements calling the separation of families cruel and inhumane during the height of the crisis. He urged his followers to not turn a blind eye to the suffering occurring at the border. The singer emphasized that children should never be used as pawns in political negotiations. He supports organizations that provide aid to refugees and asylum seekers. His advocacy focuses on the protection of basic human dignity.

Daddy Yankee

The reggaeton pioneer has expressed solidarity with separated families and called for justice. Daddy Yankee visited Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria to fill gaps left by federal aid response. He speaks about the resilience of Latinos in the face of political adversity. His global stardom allows him to bring attention to issues affecting the Spanish-speaking world. He advocates for disaster relief and humanitarian aid independent of government bureaucracy.

Guillermo del Toro

The visionary director used his Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony to speak to immigrants directly. Del Toro told the crowd that he is a weirdo and an immigrant and that they should not believe the lies told about them. He criticized the rhetoric used to demonize Mexican people in the media. His speech emphasized that art is a way to bridge cultures and destroy borders. He encourages young creators to tell their stories to fight erasure.

Alejandro González Iñárritu

Iñárritu created the virtual reality installation ‘Carne y Arena’ to simulate the experience of crossing the border. The project was designed to force viewers to empathize with the terror faced by migrants evading authorities. He has spoken about the need to see the human being behind the legal status. The director criticizes the lack of compassion in current immigration enforcement. His art serves as a visceral counter-narrative to political talking points.

Eugenio Derbez

Derbez has spoken about the difficulty of the immigrant experience in both his comedy and serious roles. He criticized the idea that Latinos are invading the country rather than contributing to it. The actor highlights the hard work performed by the community in jobs that others refuse to do. He uses his crossover success to bridge the gap between Mexican and American audiences. His advocacy focuses on humanizing the labor force that powers the economy.

Kate del Castillo

Del Castillo is a vocal critic of the Mexican government and its relationship with US policies. She has spoken out against the violence that forces people to flee their homes in the first place. The actress advocates for the safety of women who are vulnerable to trafficking at the border. She challenges the narratives that blame victims for their own displacement. Her work often explores the intersection of crime, politics, and migration.

Wilmer Valderrama

Valderrama is a board member of Voto Latino and travels the country to register voters. He emphasizes that the best way to change immigration policy is through the ballot box. The actor speaks to students about the importance of civic engagement to protect their families. He criticizes the apathy that allows harsh enforcement tactics to continue unchecked. His activism is focused on long-term political power for the community.

Melissa Barrera

Barrera has been vocal about the rights of asylum seekers and the situation in Palestine and at the US border. She uses her platform to share information about the legal rights of migrants. The actress criticizes the silencing of voices that dissent against state violence. She advocates for a world where movement is not criminalized. Her stance is rooted in a broad interpretation of human rights and justice.

Ana de Armas

De Armas has spoken about the sacrifices her parents made and the difficulties of leaving one’s home country. She criticized the dehumanization of refugees in the media during the promotion of her films. The actress highlights the emotional toll of being separated from family due to borders. She supports storytelling that gives agency back to immigrant characters. Her advocacy is often subtle but firm regarding human dignity.

Pedro Pascal

Pascal frequently mentions that he and his family came to the United States as political refugees. He contrasts his own experience with the current hostility faced by those seeking safety today. The actor criticizes the labeling of desperate people as criminals or terrorists. He uses his massive popularity to share resources and support for refugee organizations. His personal history drives his empathy for those in detention.

Oscar Isaac

Isaac has spoken about his Guatemalan and Cuban heritage in the context of the migration crisis. He criticized the demonization of Central American migrants by the previous administration. The actor advocates for understanding the geopolitical causes that drive people to leave their homes. He supports efforts to provide legal aid to unaccompanied minors. His work often reflects the complexity of the Latino identity in America.

Edward James Olmos

Olmos has been a civil rights activist for decades and played a key role in the Chicano movement. He consistently speaks out against the deportation of long-term residents and the breakup of families. The actor emphasizes that the border crossed them and not the other way around. He urges Latinos to take pride in their indigenous roots and resist assimilation. His activism is deeply rooted in history and social justice.

Share your thoughts on how celebrities influence immigration policy in the comments.