Foreign-Born Hollywood Stars Who Openly Speak Against ICE

Hollywood draws talent from every corner of the globe and creates a diverse industry filled with international voices. Many of these foreign-born celebrities have used their platforms to advocate for immigrant rights and criticize harsh enforcement policies. They often speak out against the practices of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and specific border strategies like family separation. These stars leverage their personal backgrounds to shed light on the human cost of detention and deportation.

John Leguizamo

Born in Colombia, this multi-talented actor and playwright is one of the most vocal advocates for Latino rights in the entertainment industry. He frequently uses his social media platforms to condemn the treatment of asylum seekers at the southern border. Leguizamo has described the conditions in detention centers as inhumane and unacceptable for a developed nation. He urges his followers to vote for policies that support immigrant dignity and reform. His activism is deeply rooted in his desire to see fair treatment for the Hispanic community.

Rihanna

The global superstar from Barbados consistently uses her fashion and social influence to make political statements. She made headlines when she wore a t-shirt explicitly expressing disapproval of ICE during a time of heightened border tension. Rihanna has also utilized her social media channels to criticize policies regarding family separation and the use of tear gas on migrants. She donated significantly to legal defense funds that assist immigrants facing deportation proceedings. Her bold approach ensures her message reaches millions of fans worldwide.

Pedro Pascal

This Chilean-born actor often speaks about his own family’s history as political refugees to highlight the plight of modern immigrants. He has used his platform to draw comparisons between current detention facilities and historical human rights abuses. Pascal actively supports organizations that provide legal aid and humanitarian relief to those in ICE custody. He emphasizes that seeking asylum is a legal human right that must be respected. His personal connection to the refugee experience adds weight to his advocacy.

Shakira

The Colombian singer published a passionate op-ed condemning the zero-tolerance policy that led to family separations. She argued that ripping children from their parents causes irreparable psychological trauma. Shakira called on government leaders to prioritize humanity over strict enforcement tactics. Her foundation work often focuses on child welfare and she views these immigration policies as a direct threat to children’s rights. She consistently uses her global reach to demand better treatment for Latin American migrants.

Guillermo del Toro

This Academy Award-winning director from Mexico often champions the contributions of immigrants in his acceptance speeches. He has publicly criticized the demonization of migrants and the militarization of the border. Del Toro uses his art and public appearances to foster empathy for those viewed as the “other” by enforcement agencies. He helped fund legal protection for immigrants and supports initiatives that document their stories. His work emphasizes that monsters are often found in systems rather than people.

Camila Cabello

Born in Cuba, the singer arrived in the United States as a child and frequently shares her personal immigration story. She has dedicated performances to “Dreamers” and spoken out against the fear created by ICE raids. Cabello partners with organizations that provide bail money and legal resources for detained immigrants. She argues that the country was built by immigrants and that current enforcement tactics betray those founding values. Her activism focuses on humanizing the statistics often cited in political debates.

Jim Carrey

The Canadian comedian and artist turned his attention to political satire to critique the Trump administration and its border policies. He produced a series of drawings that depicted the cruelty of family separations and the actions of ICE agents. Carrey shared these images on social media to spark outrage and conversation among his followers. He often described the treatment of asylum seekers as a moral stain on the American conscience. His visual art became a unique form of protest against systemic abuses.

Salma Hayek Pinault

This Mexican superstar launched a fundraising campaign to support families separated at the border. She expressed profound sadness and anger over the images of children held in detention centers. Hayek utilized her social media presence to rally other celebrities and fans to donate to legal defense groups. She consistently advocates for the dignity of Mexican immigrants who are often targeted by harsh rhetoric and enforcement. Her efforts have helped raise significant funds for humanitarian aid.

Kumail Nanjiani

Born in Pakistan, the comedian and actor frequently addresses xenophobia and immigration hurdles in his work and public statements. He has criticized the “Muslim Ban” and the aggressive tactics used by ICE against documented and undocumented immigrants alike. Nanjiani uses humor and sharp commentary to point out the absurdities and cruelties of the immigration system. He encourages people to look beyond fear-mongering and understand the real lives affected by deportation. His voice provides a crucial perspective from the South Asian immigrant community.

Gael García Bernal

The Mexican actor and director has produced documentaries and short films that expose the dangers migrants face during their journey. He has been a fierce critic of the proposed border wall and the criminalization of asylum seekers. Bernal actively campaigns for the rights of migrant workers who are vulnerable to exploitation and deportation. He often speaks at international forums to demand a more humane approach to migration policy. His creative work serves as a direct counter-narrative to anti-immigrant propaganda.

Diego Luna

A close collaborator of Bernal and a fellow Mexican national, Luna shares a deep commitment to migrant justice. He has traveled to the border to witness the situation firsthand and amplify the voices of activists working on the ground. Luna criticizes the narratives that paint immigrants as criminals and necessitate agencies like ICE. He uses his production company to tell stories that bridge the cultural divide between the US and Mexico. His advocacy focuses on empathy and the shared history of the two nations.

Arnold Schwarzenegger

The Austrian-born former Governor of California has a complex political history but spoke out firmly against family separations. He stated that the administration’s border enforcement policies were heartbreaking and contrary to American values. Schwarzenegger emphasized that a great nation does not need to treat children cruelly to secure its borders. He urged his party to find comprehensive solutions rather than relying on harsh detention tactics. His perspective as a Republican immigrant added a unique voice to the opposition.

Trevor Noah

As the South African host of ‘The Daily Show’, Noah regularly dismantled arguments supporting harsh ICE raids and border closures. He used his nightly platform to highlight the hypocrisy and inhumanity of the immigration debate. Noah often drew parallels between American policies and the apartheid system he grew up under. He focused on the absurdity of asking immigrants to leave while relying on their labor. His segments provided both comic relief and educational value regarding immigration law.

Samantha Bee

This Canadian comedian became one of the fiercest critics of ICE on her show ‘Full Frontal’. She aired segments that explicitly called for the abolition of the agency due to its history of abuse. Bee highlighted specific cases of neglect within detention centers that mainstream news often overlooked. She organized events and engaged in direct activism to support legal aid charities. Her approach was unapologetic and demanded immediate structural change.

John Oliver

The British host of ‘Last Week Tonight’ has dedicated multiple deep-dive segments to the mechanics of deportation and asylum courts. He exposed the lack of legal representation for children and the questionable practices of ICE contractors. Oliver uses rigorous research combined with humor to explain the complexities of the immigration system. He has encouraged his viewers to submit public comments opposing restrictive rule changes. His show serves as a vital resource for understanding the bureaucracy of enforcement.

Lupita Nyong’o

Born in Mexico and raised in Kenya, this Oscar winner uses her voice to champion the rights of refugees and immigrants. She has spoken out against the policy of separating children from their parents at the border. Nyong’o works with international organizations to promote the idea that seeking safety is a human right. She criticizes the dehumanizing language often used to describe those in ICE custody. Her advocacy is centered on dignity and the protection of family units.

Demián Bichir

The Mexican actor penned an emotional open letter defending the character of undocumented immigrants. He criticized the administration for using ICE as a tool of fear against hardworking communities. Bichir highlighted the essential contributions immigrants make to the American economy and culture. He urged politicians to stop using human beings as bargaining chips in legislative battles. His words resonated deeply with the Latino community in Hollywood.

Alejandro González Iñárritu

This Mexican director created a virtual reality installation titled ‘Carne y Arena’ to simulate the harrowing experience of crossing the border. He intended for the project to force viewers to confront the reality of being hunted by border patrol agents. Iñárritu has spoken passionately against the lack of empathy in current immigration enforcement. He believes that art can break down the emotional barriers that allow agencies like ICE to operate with impunity. His work transforms abstract political debates into visceral human experiences.

Alfonso Cuarón

Another celebrated Mexican filmmaker, Cuarón has joined his peers in condemning the treatment of migrants. He supports organizations that provide legal assistance to those facing deportation proceedings. Cuarón argues that the focus on militarized enforcement ignores the root causes of migration. He advocates for a cross-border approach that respects human rights and dignity. His international success gives him a prominent platform to challenge US policies.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas

The Indian actress and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador has expressed heartbreak over the separation of migrant families. She posted on social media that children should never be used as political pawns. Chopra called for policies that keep families together and ensure the safety of minors in custody. While she often focuses on global issues, she specifically addressed the crisis at the US southern border. Her appeal was framed around the universal rights of the child.

Riz Ahmed

British actor and rapper Riz Ahmed frequently addresses the topics of immigration and racial profiling in his music and interviews. He has criticized the systemic targeting of immigrants and the “hostile environment” created by enforcement agencies. Ahmed uses his art to explore the feeling of being unwanted in one’s adopted home. He advocates for a society that welcomes diversity rather than policing it with fear. His work challenges the stereotypes that are often used to justify harsh ICE tactics.

Thandiwe Newton

The British actress has been a vocal supporter of the “Families Belong Together” movement. She used her social media to amplify calls for protests against detention policies. Newton emphasized the psychological damage inflicted on children held in institutional settings. She urged her followers to donate to groups providing bail and reunification services. Her activism is part of a broader commitment to human rights and women’s safety.

Oscar Isaac

Born in Guatemala, the actor has spoken about the terror that ICE raids inflict on immigrant communities. He has used his public appearances to stand in solidarity with refugees and asylum seekers. Isaac criticized the narrative that criminalizes people simply for seeking a better life. He supports efforts to provide legal counsel to those navigating the complex immigration court system. His background drives his passion for protecting Central American migrants.

French Montana

The Moroccan-born rapper launched a campaign to support undocumented students and “Dreamers” facing uncertainty. He has spoken out against the deportation machine that threatens to uproot young people. Montana collaborated with organizations to fund higher education for immigrants ineligible for federal aid. He views his success as a testament to the potential of immigrants when given a chance. His advocacy focuses on empowerment and educational access.

Regina Spektor

Born in the Soviet Union, the singer-songwriter is a vocal critic of policies that close doors to refugees. She has performed at benefit concerts for the ACLU to support their litigation against ICE. Spektor frequently shares information about the plight of detainees and the history of American immigration. She draws on her own experience as a Jewish refugee to foster empathy for today’s asylum seekers. Her message is one of welcome and protection for the vulnerable.

Penélope Cruz

The Spanish actress joined the global outcry against the separation of families at the US border. She used her Instagram to share the “Families Belong Together” slogan and raise awareness. Cruz highlighted the humanitarian crisis created by zero-tolerance enforcement policies. She encouraged her international fanbase to pay attention to the human rights violations occurring in detention centers. Her participation demonstrated the global condemnation of these practices.

Javier Bardem

Spanish actor Javier Bardem has produced and supported documentaries highlighting the struggles of refugees. He has signed open letters and spoken at the United Nations regarding the treatment of migrants. Bardem criticizes the walls and borders that divide humanity and lead to agencies like ICE. He advocates for a world where movement is not criminalized. His activism is consistent with his long history of supporting humanitarian causes.

Sia

The Australian singer-songwriter matched donations to the ACLU to help fight lawsuits against the Trump administration’s immigration policies. She urged her fans to support legal battles protecting families from separation and deportation. Sia used her massive platform to direct financial resources to the front lines of the legal fight. She expressed that she could not stand by while human rights were being violated. Her financial contribution provided crucial support during the height of the crisis.

Cara Delevingne

The British model and actress used her social media presence to protest the separation of children from parents. She posted images and messages supporting the “Families Belong Together” campaign. Delevingne urged her millions of followers to contact representatives and demand policy changes. She framed the issue as a fundamental human rights violation rather than just a political dispute. Her advocacy helped mobilize younger generations to engage with the issue.

Eugenio Derbez

One of Mexico’s most famous comedic actors, Derbez has transitioned to Hollywood while remaining a fierce advocate for his countrymen. He has spoken out against the racism and fear-mongering that fuels ICE operations. Derbez uses humor to disarm stereotypes but gets serious when discussing the dignity of hardworking immigrants. He actively supports charities that aid Latinos in the US and Mexico. His voice serves as a bridge between the two cultures.

Kate del Castillo

The Mexican actress is known for her outspoken nature and has heavily criticized the treatment of Latinos in the US. She has condemned the fear that undocumented immigrants live under due to the threat of deportation. Del Castillo advocates for comprehensive immigration reform rather than enforcement-only strategies. She uses her platform to highlight the contributions of the Hispanic community. Her activism is often bold and unapologetic.

Seth Rogen

The Canadian comedian and actor is never shy about sharing his political opinions on Twitter. He has frequently blasted the cruelty of family separation policies and the administration that enacted them. Rogen uses his humor and blunt delivery to call out the hypocrisy of anti-immigrant rhetoric. He supports various civil rights organizations that fight against discriminatory enforcement. His commentary often reflects the shock of a neighbor observing American political turmoil.

Dua Lipa

Born in the UK to Kosovar-Albanian parents, the pop star is a fierce advocate for refugee rights. She has criticized the negative rhetoric surrounding immigrants and the policies that turn them away. Lipa frequently speaks about her own family’s history of displacement to humanize the crisis. She supports organizations that help displaced people find safety and legal status. Her perspective challenges the stigma often attached to refugees.

Alan Cumming

The Scottish actor is a dual citizen who has been very vocal about his opposition to ICE tactics. He has used his social media to share stories of deportation and detention that he finds unacceptable. Cumming actively supports LGBTQ+ refugees who face unique dangers in detention centers. He encourages civic engagement and voting to change the systems of enforcement. His activism is intersectional and highlights the most vulnerable within the immigrant population.

Zedd

Born in Russia and raised in Germany, the DJ and producer organized a massive benefit concert called “Welcome!” specifically to raise money for the ACLU. The event was a direct response to the travel ban and aggressive immigration enforcement. Zedd rallied other famous musicians to perform and stand in solidarity with immigrants. He stated that he wanted to use his voice to fight back against discrimination and exclusion. The concert raised significant funds for legal challenges against government policies.

Sophie Turner

The British ‘Game of Thrones’ star used her platform to support the “Keep Families Together” movement. She shared resources and petitions aimed at stopping the separation of children at the border. Turner expressed that the images coming from detention centers were heartbreaking and demanded action. She encouraged her young fanbase to stay informed and compassionate. Her involvement brought attention to the issue from a younger demographic.

Foreign-born stars bring a necessary perspective to the conversation on American immigration policy, reminding us that this is a global humanitarian issue. Share your thoughts on these celebrity stances in the comments.