Selena Gomez shared a tearful Instagram Story, expressing anguish over President Donald Trump’s plan for mass deportations. In the since-deleted video, the 32-year-old star apologized to affected immigrants, saying she felt helpless. “All my people are getting attacked, the children,” she sobbed. “I’m sorry…I don’t know what to do.”
Swift retraction and public reaction
Shortly after her emotional post, Gomez removed the video and wrote, “Apparently it’s not ok to show empathy for people.” The singer-actress has long voiced her concerns about family separations and detentions, previously speaking out against “kids in cages” and decrying the inhumane treatment of migrants at the border.
Advocacy through documentaries and essays
In 2019, Gomez produced Living Undocumented, a Netflix documentary spotlighting the stories of migrant families. She also penned a Time magazine essay detailing her personal connection to immigration. Born in Texas to a family of Mexican descent, Gomez acknowledged her gratitude for being a U.S. citizen, while fearing for those who share her heritage but lack legal status.
Ties to her heritage
Gomez has opened up about her family’s immigration journey from Mexico to the U.S. in the 1970s, emphasizing how that experience shaped her worldview. Despite a demanding career that led her to lose some Spanish fluency, she remains committed to honoring her roots. She even took Spanish lessons for six months while preparing for a recent film role.
Championing cultural roots
The pop icon regularly uses her platform to support immigrant communities. She gave a heartfelt speech for Define American’s Immigrad 2020 ceremony, encouraging immigrant graduates to stay determined. Whether protesting family separations or recalling her own family’s sacrifices, Gomez continues to shine a spotlight on issues impacting migrant families today.
