Lady Gaga Denounces ICE in Powerful Tokyo Concert Speech
Singer-songwriter Lady Gaga delivered a poignant condemnation of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during her Mayhem Ball concert series in Tokyo, Japan. The global superstar, who is concluding a five-night residency at the iconic Tokyo Dome on January 30, took a moment from her performance to address what she described as a critical issue affecting communities worldwide, particularly in America.
An Emotional Plea for Compassion and Change
In her heartfelt address, Gaga expressed deep concern about the situation back home. "I want to take a second to talk about something that's extremely important to me. Something important to people all over the world and especially in America right now," she began. The artist revealed that her heart aches thinking about the families and children being mercilessly targeted by ICE, emphasizing how their lives are being destroyed in plain sight.
Gaga specifically referenced the recent shooting of ICU nurse Alex Pretti by ICE agents in Minneapolis, Minnesota, an incident that has sparked widespread outrage. "I'm also thinking about Minnesota and everyone back at home who is living in so much fear and searching for answers on what we all should do," she stated, highlighting how such events erode community safety and belonging.
Joining a Growing Chorus of Celebrity Criticism
With this speech, Lady Gaga becomes the latest high-profile figure to speak out against ICE, following similar condemnations from celebrities like Mark Ruffalo, Olivia Wilde, and Wanda Sykes at recent events such as the Golden Globes and Sundance Film Festival. Her words resonate as part of a broader artistic movement advocating for immigration reform and human rights.
During the concert, Gaga dedicated her song 'Come to Mama' from her fourth studio album 'Joanne' to those experiencing hardship. She offered it to "everyone who is suffering, to everyone who's feeling alone and helpless, anyone who's lost a loved one and is having a difficult time, an impossible time, seeing when the end will be near."
A Call for Accountability and Leadership
The singer issued a direct appeal for systemic change, urging a return to safety and peace. "We need to get back to a place of safety and peace and accountability. Good people shouldn't have to fight so hard and risk their lives for well-being and respect," she asserted. Gaga concluded by hoping that leaders are listening and will change their course of action swiftly to show mercy to all within the country.
Grammy Anticipation Amidst Advocacy
This powerful moment comes as Lady Gaga prepares for a historic night at the upcoming Grammy Awards. She is poised to potentially win the prestigious Album of the Year award for the first time, completing a hat trick of top honors after previously securing Record and Song of the Year for 'Shallow' from 'A Star is Born'. With seven nominations this year and 14 Grammys already to her name, a victory would solidify her legendary status in the music industry.
The Mayhem Ball tour marks Gaga's dramatic return to live performances, featuring a collection of pop anthems that showcase her theatrical flair. As she continues to blend artistry with activism, her Tokyo speech underscores how celebrities are increasingly using their platforms to address pressing social and political issues, amplifying voices that often go unheard.
