'We are humans and we are Americans': Bad Bunny’s Grammy speech sparks debate
At the 2026 Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny delivered a powerful message that quickly became one of the evening’s defining moments.
After winning the award for Best Música Urbana Album for DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS, he began his acceptance speech by urging “ICE out”, in reference to the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency. He then rejected dehumanising language, telling the audience “we’re not savages, we’re not animals, we’re not aliens, we are humans and we are Americans”.
Bad Bunny’s use of the word “Americans” reflects a broader cultural and geographic identity that includes people across the entire American continent, not just citizens of the United States. In many parts of Latin America, “America” is understood as the landmass stretching from Canada to Argentina and Chile, a perspective that sees Latinos and others from the hemisphere as part of a shared continental identity. This contrasts with the narrower US usage of “American” to mean citizens of the United States.
His remarks resonated at a time when immigration, identity and national belonging are central issues in political and public debate in the United States. Discussions around border enforcement, deportations and the treatment of migrant communities have intensified in recent years, often accompanied by polarising language. By stressing shared humanity and a broader, continental sense of belonging, Bad Bunny positioned his message against narratives that frame immigrants as outsiders.
His appeal to love over hatred, which he described as the most powerful response to division, reflected an attempt to shift the conversation away from fear and confrontation towards empathy and inclusion.
The moment gained widespread attention not only because it was part of a historic night for Latin music, with a Spanish-language album winning major awards, but also because it highlighted how cultural platforms can intersect with social and political issues. For many viewers in Latin America and beyond, his words underscored a sense of belonging that transcends national borders and reflects deep historical and cultural connections across the Americas.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
