Lady Gaga Delivers Emotional Speech on ICE Raids During Japan Concert

The pop star expressed heartache over immigration crackdown and called for change from US leaders.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 2:23pm

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During a recent concert in Japan, Lady Gaga gave an emotional speech criticizing the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency's string of raids and the Trump administration's crackdown on illegal immigration. Gaga said her "heart is aching" thinking about the "people, the children, the families all over America who are being mercilessly targeted by ICE" and the fear felt by communities. She called for US leaders to "change the course of action swiftly and have mercy on everyone in our country."

Why it matters

Lady Gaga's comments reflect the growing public outcry over the Trump administration's aggressive immigration enforcement tactics, which have included high-profile ICE raids and the shooting deaths of several American citizens during confrontations with federal agents. Her emotional plea for change highlights the human toll of these policies and the erosion of trust between immigrant communities and the government.

The details

During a concert at the Tokyo Dome in Japan, Lady Gaga told the audience that she would soon be returning to the US, but her "heart is aching" over the ICE raids targeting undocumented immigrants. She expressed concern for the "pain" and "fear" felt by affected families and communities, particularly in Minnesota where recent clashes between protesters and federal agents have turned deadly. Gaga called on US leaders to "change the course of action swiftly and have mercy on everyone in our country."

  • Lady Gaga delivered the emotional speech during a concert at the Tokyo Dome in Japan on January 29, 2026.
  • Gaga is set to return to the US this weekend for the 2026 Grammy Awards, where she is scheduled to perform.

The players

Lady Gaga

A Grammy-winning pop icon who has been outspoken on social and political issues, including immigration reform.

President Trump

The current US president who has made immigration enforcement a key priority of his administration, leading to an increase in ICE raids and deportations.

Renee Nicole Good

A 37-year-old American citizen who was fatally shot by an ICE officer during a confrontation in Minneapolis.

Alex Pretti

A 37-year-old American citizen who was killed by a Border Patrol agent in Minneapolis.

Tom Homan

The White House Border Czar who announced there will be "massive changes" in Minneapolis with "less agents in the streets" as federal authorities gain more access to local jails.

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What they’re saying

“In a couple of days, I'm going to be heading home, and my heart is aching thinking about the people, the children, the families all over America who are being mercilessly targeted by ICE. I'm thinking about all of their pain and how their lives are being destroyed right in front of us.”

— Lady Gaga

“We need to get back to a place of safety and peace and accountability. Good people shouldn't have to fight so hard and risk their lives for well-being and respect. And I hope our leaders are listening. I hope you are listening to us asking you to change the course of action swiftly and have mercy on everyone in our country.”

— Lady Gaga

What’s next

President Trump has revealed that his administration will "deescalate" immigration enforcement operations in Minnesota after facing backlash over the killing of Alex Pretti. Additionally, White House Border Czar Tom Homan said there will be "massive changes" in Minneapolis with "less agents in the streets" as federal authorities gain more access to local jails.

The takeaway

Lady Gaga's emotional plea highlights the growing public outcry over the Trump administration's aggressive immigration enforcement tactics and their devastating impact on immigrant communities. Her comments underscore the need for a more humane and compassionate approach to immigration policy that prioritizes the wellbeing and safety of all people in the United States.