At the Golden Globe Awards on January 11, many celebrities used their platform to protest against the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. Prominent figures Mark Ruffalo and Wanda Sykes took a stand by wearing pins bearing the messages “BE GOOD” and “ICE OUT.” These symbols highlighted their outrage over the recent fatal shootings involving ICE officers.
Fatal Incidents Spark Outcry
The protests were in response to the tragic deaths of Renee Good and Keith Porter. Good was shot by ICE officer Jonathan Ross on January 7 in Minneapolis. Just hours before the New Year, Porter was also killed by an off-duty ICE agent in Los Angeles.
Mark Ruffalo’s Strong Statements
On the red carpet, Ruffalo expressed his sorrow and anger, stating, “This is for Renee Nicole Good, who was murdered.” He criticized President Donald Trump, claiming that his leadership disregards international law. “We’re in the middle of a war with Venezuela that we illegally invaded,” Ruffalo stated, illustrating the chaos he perceives in current U.S. politics.
He shared his concern for fellow Americans feeling threatened. “I love this country. And what I’m seeing here happening is not America,” he concluded.
Wanda Sykes Calls for Accountability
Sykes echoed Ruffalo’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for people to speak out against governmental injustices. “We need to speak up and shut this rogue government down,” she told Variety. Her comments reflect a growing frustration with the treatment of individuals by ICE.
ICE Out For Good Movement
The protest during the Golden Globes aligns with the ICE Out For Good movement, organized by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). This initiative has seen over 1,000 events nationwide, aiming to bring awareness to the human costs of ICE actions.
- Purpose of the events: Honor lives lost to ICE violence.
- Encourage accountability for governmental actions.
- Promote solidarity and kindness among community members.
Reflections from Jean Smart
Jean Smart, known for her role in “Hacks,” remarked on the difficulty of celebrating achievements in the entertainment industry while grappling with national issues. She noted the pervasive anxiety about the current political climate, stating, “Everything is kind of overshadowed with everything going on in this country.”
Smart acknowledged that celebrity activism can be polarizing but insisted on voicing her opinions as a concerned citizen and parent. “I’m here speaking as a human being and a mom,” she affirmed.
As protests continue and more voices join the conversation, the impact of celebrity activism in addressing urgent social issues remains significant. The Golden Globes served as a powerful platform to shine a light on critical matters, underscoring the intersection of art and advocacy.
