GRAMMY ARTISTS SPEAK OUT ON ICE

Chiderah Edeh

The Advocate

This year, the Grammys became more than an awards show. Immigration, equality and human rights were central themes of the night.

Pins, speeches and statements worked together to ensure artists’ voices were heard. The event reminded viewers that music and activism are often connected, and that small gestures can spark conversation and inspire change. 

It started on the red carpet: artists wearing “ICE OUT” pins — small symbols carrying a powerful message about immigration and justice. Long before any trophies were handed out, stars including Billie Eilish and Kehlani made it clear that the 2026 Grammys would not be just about music. The pins were subtle yet unmistakable, a reminder that fashion can carry a statement and that the night would become a platform for more than applause.

As the night went on, the message became impossible to miss. The pins appeared across the red carpet, onstage and even during performances. Small but powerful, they signaled that the issue mattered. With millions watching, the Grammy stage became more than a place to accept awards. Artists used their moments in front of a live audience to speak about immigration and human rights. The platform gave them visibility and a chance to make their voices heard.

Several artists used the spotlight to share messages.

Bad Bunny opened his acceptance speech by saying: “ICE out. We’re not savages, we’re not animals, we’re not aliens. We are humans, and we are Americans.” He added that the only thing stronger than hate is love and urged people to fight with love instead of anger. His words were emotional and widely shared online.

Billie Eilish, accepting song of the year with her brother Finneas, said: “No one is illegal on stolen land… F‑‑‑ ICE.” Short and direct, her remarks sparked national conversation.

Shaboozey focused on immigrants and their families, saying: “Immigrants built this country, literally… this is for all children of immigrants.” Olivia Dean highlighted her family’s immigrant heritage: “I’m up here as a granddaughter of immigrants… We’re nothing without each other.”

After winning an R&B award, Kehlani told the audience: “We’re too powerful of a group to all be in the room at the same time and not make some kind of statement.”

Bon Iver shared a hopeful reflection, saying that seeing organized voices at the Grammys gave him faith that change is possible.

Big events like the Grammys can do more than entertain — they can start conversations, shine a light on real issues and make people think. For many, the night was unforgettable not just for the performances but for the messages shared. Seeing artists speak up underscored how much music reflects real life and how even major events can highlight important issues.