Grammys 2026 Ceremony Dominated by Political Statements Against US Immigration Enforcement
The 68th Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles transformed into a platform for political protest, with multiple winners using their acceptance speeches to criticise the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency. In a ceremony marked by emotional moments and historic victories, artists including Bad Bunny, Billie Eilish and British singer Olivia Dean delivered pointed messages opposing ICE operations, particularly highlighting concerns about federal agent presence in Minneapolis.
Bad Bunny Makes History with Dual Wins and Powerful Opening Statement
Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny created Grammy history by becoming the first Spanish-language artist to win the coveted Album of the Year award. The rapper and singer, who also secured the Best Música Urbana Album prize, opened his acceptance speech with the direct statement "ICE out" before elaborating on his position. "We're not savage, we're not animals, we're not aliens. We are humans and we are Americans," he declared to the audience, receiving widespread applause for his comments.
Olivia Dean's Emotional Best New Artist Acceptance
British artist Olivia Dean, wiping away tears as she approached the stage to accept the Best New Artist award, connected her win directly to her family's immigrant background. The 26-year-old, who has enjoyed chart-topping success with her hit "Man I Need" over the past year, told the ceremony: "I guess I want to say I'm up here as the granddaughter of an immigrant... I'm a product of bravery and I think those people deserve to be celebrated." Her heartfelt statement resonated throughout the Staples Center venue.
Billie Eilish Echoes Sentiments During Song of the Year Win
Billie Eilish, accepting the Song of the Year award for "Wildflower" alongside her brother Finneas, reinforced the anti-ICE messaging with her own powerful declaration. "No one is illegal on stolen land," she stated firmly before adding: "It's really hard to know what to say and what to do now… our voices really do matter and the people matter..." The artist's comments came during a ceremony where several attendees, including Justin and Hailey Bieber, wore badges expressing opposition to current immigration enforcement practices.
Background to the Political Statements
The artists' statements reflect growing public concern about ICE operations, particularly following recent incidents in Minneapolis where Border Patrol officers were involved in fatal shootings. The deaths of 37-year-old nurse Alex Pretti and Renee Good, who was shot in her car less than a mile away, have intensified scrutiny of immigration enforcement tactics. These events have created what many describe as a flashpoint situation in the city, contributing to the Grammy winners' decision to use their platform for political commentary.
Other Notable Grammy Moments and Winners
Beyond the political statements, the 2026 Grammys featured numerous historic achievements and memorable performances:
- Kendrick Lamar became the most awarded hip-hop artist in Grammy history, winning several prizes including Record of the Year for "luther" with SZA
- British artist Lola Young secured the Best Pop Solo Performance award for her hit "Messy"
- K-Pop made Grammy history as "Golden" by Demon Hunters became the first K-Pop song to win a Grammy award
- Cher received a standing ovation when accepting a Lifetime Achievement Award, though she created a lighthearted moment by initially confusing the Record of the Year winner with the late Luther Vandross
Memorable Performances and Tributes
The ceremony featured spectacular musical performances from artists including:
- Sabrina Carpenter delivering a standout set during the main show
- Olivia Dean performing a medley alongside fellow Best New Artist nominees
- Post Malone and Slash leading a tribute to Ozzy Osbourne with a performance of "War Pigs" during the emotional In Memoriam section
- Lauryn Hill honouring D'Angelo and Roberta Flack with special musical tributes
With more than 90 awards presented during the broadcast, the 2026 Grammys will be remembered not only for its musical achievements but for becoming a significant platform for artists to express political views about immigration policy and enforcement in the United States. The ceremony demonstrated how cultural events increasingly intersect with social and political commentary, as major award winners used their moment in the spotlight to address issues beyond the music industry itself.
