Photo: Manny Carabel / Getty Images Entertainment / Getty Images
While performing overseas, Lady Gaga used her Tokyo concert to speak out about immigration enforcement and the impact it has had on communities in the United States, particularly in Minnesota.
During her show at the Tokyo Dome on January 29, Gaga paused at the piano to address the audience, saying, “I want to take a second to talk about something that’s extremely important to me.” She went on to share her concern for families affected by deportations, adding that her heart was “aching” for those being targeted.
“I’m thinking about the people, the children, the families all over America who are being mercilessly targeted by ICE,” she said. “Their lives are being destroyed right in front of us.”
Gaga explained that Minnesota has been especially on her mind amid protests and rising tensions in Minneapolis. She noted that fear has spread through many neighborhoods, saying, “When entire communities lose their sense of safety and belonging, it breaks something in all of us.”
Calling on political leaders to take responsibility, the singer urged swift action and compassion. “We need to get back to a place of safety and peace and accountability,” she said. “Good people shouldn’t have to fight so hard just to be treated with respect.”
Her remarks followed the fatal shootings of Renée Good and Alex Pretti during encounters with ICE officers, incidents that have sparked national outrage. While federal officials have defended the actions as self-defense, video footage and witnesses have raised questions about those claims.
Gaga’s comments echo those of other artists who have recently spoken out. Olivia Rodrigo called ICE’s actions “unconscionable,” while Billie Eilish warned that communities are seeing their rights stripped away.
The pop star is scheduled to complete her Tokyo shows before returning to North America for the next leg of her Mayhem Ball Tour. She is also preparing for the 2026 Grammy Awards, where she is nominated for seven honors.
Recently, Gaga also released an emotional cover of “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” for a Super Bowl commercial, explaining that Mister Rogers’ message of kindness and empathy feels especially meaningful right now.
SOURCE: Billboard