Lady Gaga sparked debate online this week after pausing a concert in Tokyo to criticize U.S. immigration enforcement and express concern for families affected by recent federal operations.
During her Mayhem Ball tour stop on Thursday, the singer addressed the audience midway through her performance, saying she was troubled by reports of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in the United States.
“I want to take a second to talk about something that is extremely important to me, something important to people all over the world, and especially in America right now,” Gaga said. She added that she was preparing to return home and felt distressed thinking about families and children she believes have been harmed by immigration enforcement efforts.
“My heart is aching thinking about the people, the children, the families all over America who are being mercilessly targeted by ICE,” she said. “I’m thinking about all of their pain and how their lives are being destroyed right in front of us.”
Federal immigration enforcement has come under heightened scrutiny in recent weeks following two fatal shootings involving immigration agents in Minneapolis earlier this month. The incidents have fueled protests and public debate over the conduct of federal officers and the scope of ongoing enforcement operations.
Gaga referenced Minnesota specifically, saying she was thinking about communities she believes are living in fear and uncertainty.
“When entire communities lose their sense of safety and belonging, it breaks something in all of us,” she said. “I know we’re not in America right now, but we are with our community, and we love you.”
She then dedicated her song Come to Mama to people she described as suffering or grieving, calling for what she characterized as greater accountability and compassion from political leaders.
“We need to get back to a place of safety and peace and accountability,” Gaga said. “Good people shouldn’t have to fight so hard and risk their lives for well-being and respect. I hope our leaders are listening and willing to change course.”
Audience members in attendance responded with sustained applause. Online reaction, however, was divided after video clips of her remarks circulated on social media.
Some users criticized the singer for raising political issues during a concert, arguing that fans attend performances for entertainment rather than political commentary. Others defended Gaga’s remarks, praising her willingness to speak out and expressing emotional support for her message.
Gaga has a history of public political engagement. She endorsed former Vice President Kamala Harris during the 2024 election cycle and has been a longtime advocate for LGBTQ rights and progressive social causes. Following the election, she said she had hoped President Donald Trump would lose.
The singer is scheduled to return to the United States this weekend, where she is expected to appear at the Grammy Awards.