Full Breakdown
Celebrity Activism Sparks Controversy Over ICE Protests
1/31/2026, 1:23:14 AM
Amber Rose Critiques Ariana Grande's Call to Action
Amber Rose has publicly criticized Ariana Grande for endorsing a nationwide protest against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which is scheduled for January 30, 2026. Grande's Instagram post encouraged her followers to skip work, school, and shopping to participate in the protest. Rose, during a livestream with social media personality Sneako, labeled Grande's activism as "out-of-touch," pointing out the disparity between Grande's wealth—estimated between $250 million and $300 million—and the financial realities faced by many Americans. Rose stated, "Stop telling people to do that … I think anyone that tells people to not go to work, not go to school, not f---ing buy things for their family, and they’re worth $250-300 million dollars, they should shut the f--- up."
Background on ICE and Recent Incidents
ICE, established in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, is responsible for enforcing U.S. immigration laws. Under the Trump administration, ICE has intensified its operations, leading to significant public backlash and protests. Recent incidents, including the fatal shootings of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti by ICE agents, have heightened tensions. These events have sparked widespread protests across the U.S., with many citizens condemning ICE's actions as violent and unjust.
Public Response and Polling Data
A CNN poll indicated that 51% of Americans believe ICE is making cities less safe, while 56% viewed the shooting of Good as an inappropriate use of force. In contrast, 31% felt ICE increased safety, and 15% believed its operations were not tough enough. Grande's activism aligns with a broader movement among celebrities, including Katy Perry and Kerry Washington, who have urged their followers to contact their representatives to defund ICE.
Criticism of Protests and Federal Law Enforcement
In her livestream, Rose also expressed concern over the growing hostility towards federal law enforcement, emphasizing that protests should not escalate to violence. She stated, "Stop trying to stop federal agents from doing their jobs … there shouldn’t be any casualties." This perspective highlights a divide in public opinion regarding the role of ICE and the appropriate response to its actions.
Official Statements & Responses
Grande has previously shared resources on social media to help her followers contact their senators regarding ICE's operations. She has also supported calls for the agency's abolishment, echoing sentiments from public figures like New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who stated, "ICE terrorizes our cities. ICE puts us all in danger. Abolish ICE."
Verbatim Quotes
- “Ariana Grande … I think she’s worth, I don’t know, $250–300 million dollars, telling people to not go to work, protest ICE. It's like, 'Girl, shut the f--- up." — Amber Rose, Model and Actress
- “Stop trying to stop federal agents from doing their jobs … there shouldn’t be any casualties." — Amber Rose, Model and Actress
- “As tens of thousands across America protest the violence that ICE sows with impunity, federal agents shot and killed another personal in Minneapolis today. ICE terrorizes our cities. ICE puts us all in danger. Abolish ICE.” — Zohran Mamdani, New York City Mayor
What's Next
As the protest date approaches, the debate surrounding ICE's operations and the role of celebrity activism is likely to intensify. The outcomes of these protests and the responses from federal authorities will be closely monitored by both supporters and critics of ICE.
