Olivia Rodrigo is passionately voicing her concerns regarding the escalating protests against federal immigration raids that have been taking place in Southern California. This growing outcry highlights the significant social issues surrounding immigration policies in the United States.
The 22-year-old pop sensation and actress, who spent her childhood in Temecula, California, before relocating to Los Angeles during her middle school years to pursue her career in the Disney Channel series Bizaardvark, utilized her social media platform on Saturday, June 14, to join the widespread protests. These demonstrations were ignited in response to the actions of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which conducted raids targeting various workplaces throughout the city, alleging immigration violations.
In her heartfelt message shared on her Instagram Story, Rodrigo expressed, “I’ve lived in LA my whole life and I’m deeply upset about these violent deportations of my neighbors under the current administration.” She emphasized the essential role of immigrants in shaping Los Angeles, stating, “LA simply wouldn’t exist without immigrants.” Rodrigo criticized the treatment of hardworking community members, asserting that it reflects a lack of respect, empathy, and due process, which she finds to be utterly unacceptable. She declared her solidarity with the beautiful and diverse community of Los Angeles, as well as with immigrants across America. Moreover, she affirmed her commitment to upholding the fundamental rights of freedom of speech and the right to protest.
To further advocate for immigrant rights, Rodrigo shared a link to a resource page titled “Know Your Rights” on the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) website. In a subsequent post on her Instagram Story, she showcased a powerful image from a protest, featuring a handmade sign that depicted a crossed-out crown along with the words “in our USA.” This sign likely referenced the “No Kings Day” demonstrations that took place on June 14, which were a direct response to President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday military parade in Washington, D.C., highlighting the discontent among many citizens regarding current political events.
Olivia Rodrigo is not the only artist using her platform to speak out against the recent ICE raids and the presence of the National Guard in Los Angeles. Following President Trump’s deployment of National Guard troops to the city in early June, a wave of prominent musicians have publicly condemned the government’s actions. Notable figures such as Tyler, The Creator, Finneas, The Game, Billie Joe Armstrong of Green Day, Kehlani, Tom Morello, Reneé Rapp, and Rebecca Black have all voiced their opposition. Many officials in California have labeled this deployment as unconstitutional and inflammatory, raising concerns about the implications for civil liberties.
“F—K ICE,” Tyler passionately declared on his Instagram Story, sharing a clip from the 2002 film Paid in Full, where this phrase is chanted repeatedly. Furthermore, Finneas recounted his experience during a protest, where he claimed he was tear-gassed despite the peaceful nature of the gathering. He stated, “Tear-gassed almost immediately at the very peaceful protest downtown. They’re inciting this,” expressing his frustration over the treatment of protesters. This incident highlights the increasing tensions surrounding these protests and the growing need for dialogue regarding immigration reform and the rights of individuals in America.
