Shakira speaks out on the ‘constant fear’ immigrants face while living in the U.S.
Despite continuous Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations taking place in Los Angeles and various parts of the nation, Shakira discusses the genuine experiences of living as an immigrant in the United States.
Last week, the 48-year-old vocalist shared with the BBC about her journey from her birthplace Colombia, moving to Miami during the ’90s as a teen.
At 19 years old, much like other Colombian immigrants seeking a brighter future, she relocated to America. She recalled being surrounded by Spanish-English dictionaries and synonym guides as she didn’t have access to resources like Google or ChatGPT for assistance during that time.
Amidst the ongoing ICE raids in Los Angeles, artists of Latinx descent such as Becky G, Ivan Cornejo, and Maná are using social media platforms to express solidarity with the immigrant community and join in the protests.
Expanding upon her delicate circumstances, Shakira mentioned that she honed her English proficiency by delving into the poetry of Walt Whitman and the songs of Leonard Cohen and Bob Dylan.
However, despite the challenges of language learning, the “Estoy Aquí” artist addressed the emotional strain that comes with the immigrant journey.
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Beyond just the struggles of language acquisition, the “Estoy Aquí” artist discussed the emotional impact of immigration.
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The language learning hurdles were acknowledged but dismissed by the “Estoy Aquí” artist, who instead focused on the emotional impact of immigrating.
She expressed that this situation involves persistent anxiety and is deeply saddening for her. In these times, it’s crucial that we stay together as one. It’s essential now more than ever to speak up loudly, making it clear that a nation can alter its immigration policies, but the way all individuals are treated must always be compassionate.
This isn’t the first time Shakira has touched on the subject of immigration in recent months.
On Monday evening, Grammy-winning rap artist Doechii spoke out against “harsh assaults” by the federal government towards Los Angeles as she received the BET Award for Best Female Hip Hop Artist.
During the Grammy Awards ceremony for her Latin pop album “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” in February, the artist behind “Whenever, Wherever” dedicated her win to her fellow immigrants residing within our nation.
“You are loved, you are worth it and I will always fight with you,” she said.
Shakira recently expressed her support for the immigrant community, joining other popular Latin American musicians like Becky G, Ivan Cornejo, Fuerza Regida, Junior H, Grupo Frontera, and Maná who have spoken out against ICE raids and demonstrated their empathy towards immigrants through public statements.
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2025-06-17 00:31