The deadly operation conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Minneapolis has ignited widespread condemnation from both the public and prominent figures. With recent killings of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti linked to ICE actions, the agency faces mounting criticism amid a nationwide debate on its future. According to a poll conducted by the Economist and YouPoll, 46 percent of U.S. citizens now support abolishing ICE, reflecting eroding public confidence.
High-profile celebrities have joined voices in denouncing ICE. Billie Eilish called the agency a “federally funded and supported terrorist group” that terrorizes families and kills innocent people. After the death of Alex Pretti, she challenged fellow celebrities to speak out, posting a selfie captioned, “hey my fellow celebrities, u gonna speak up? or.” Olivia Rodrigo similarly condemned ICE’s actions on Instagram, declaring, “ICE’s actions are unconscionable but we are not powerless. Our actions matter. I stand with Minnesota.”
Prominent Voices Against ICE’s Actions
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Billie Eilish
Billie has long advocated for immigrant communities. She strongly criticized ICE raids in Los Angeles and described the agency’s violent tactics as state-sponsored terrorism. -
Olivia Rodrigo
Rodrigo criticized the Trump administration and the Department of Homeland Security for using her song “American Bitch” in a controversial video about self-deportation. She reaffirmed her support for protesters in Minnesota after Pretti’s killing. -
Pedro Pascal
Pascal shared detailed infographics on Instagram, highlighting the nine people ICE has killed in 2026 so far. He called for a national strike and referenced editorials demanding accountability. -
Katy Perry
Perry urged fans to take action by contacting senators to oppose funding bills supporting ICE. She repeatedly spoke against ICE, particularly during the major raids in Southern California. -
Ariana Grande
Backed New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s call to abolish ICE. She stressed that ICE’s presence endangers communities. -
Jenna Ortega
At the Sundance Film Festival, Ortega expressed distress over the violence occurring during the event and criticized the government’s failure to address it. -
Ed Norton
Norton denounced ICE as an "illegal army" committing murders on U.S. soil. He urged Hollywood to support efforts to dismantle the agency. -
The Chicks
The country band linked current events to their earlier activism against government injustices and urged Americans to uphold human decency beyond political lines. -
Steve Kerr
The Golden State Warriors coach spoke about the city’s frustration and the emotional toll the violence has had on both Minneapolis residents and the Timberwolves team. - Other Figures
Additional voices include Finneas O’Connell, hosting a sharp critique of gun control double standards while referencing Pretti’s case, Glenn Close warning of escalating violence fueled by ICE, and activism from sports figures like Breanna Stewart and Tyrese Haliburton.
Celebrity-Led Advocacy and Support
Several musicians and actors have turned their platforms into activism hubs:
- María Zardoya donated proceeds from her tour to immigrant advocacy groups.
- Dave Matthews Band condemned ICE and donated to the ACLU and Minnesota chapters.
- Ellen DeGeneres voiced sympathy with Minneapolis protesters on social media.
- Moby called for boycotts of corporations supporting ICE and stressed the constitutional right to protest.
- Whoopi Goldberg condemned ICE officials on "The View," calling out their murderous actions on protesters.
A Broader Cultural Movement
Celebrities emphasize that what’s at stake transcends politics, focusing on human rights and shared American values. Conor Oberst of Bright Eyes declared, “ICE must get the fuck out of Minneapolis and all U.S. cities,” underscoring a commitment to immigrant solidarity. Katy Perry’s call to “turn anger into ACTION” encapsulates the ongoing push for legislative and systemic change.
This surge in public and celebrity outcry reflects increasing scrutiny of ICE’s actions nationally. The discourse combines social media activism, protests, and calls for policy reform at local and federal levels. It highlights a society grappling with its identity, accountability, and the protection of civil liberties in times of state enforcement controversy.
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