Tongva Tribe Responds to Billie Eilish's Grammys Speech on "Stolen Land"

During the 2026 Grammy Awards, Billie Eilish, while accepting the Song of the Year award, made a statement asserting that “no one is illegal on stolen land,” which sparked significant discussion and backlash. Eilish's comments were made while she wore an “ICE OUT” pin, denouncing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The Tongva tribe, the Indigenous people of the greater Los Angeles Basin, confirmed that Eilish's multimillion-dollar mansion is situated on their ancestral land.

Native American tribe that owns land under Billie Eilish’s LA mansion has message for virtue-signaling singer

In response to Eilish's remarks, a spokesperson for the Tongva tribe expressed appreciation for her acknowledgment of their history but emphasized the need for explicit recognition of the tribe in future discussions. The spokesperson stated, “Eilish has not contacted our tribe directly regarding her property. We do value the instance when public figures provide visibility to the true history of this country.” The tribe hopes that Eilish will reference them specifically to enhance public understanding of their territory.

Indigenous tribe that owns land under Billie Eilish mansion has message for singer

Eilish's comments have drawn mixed reactions. While some supporters commend her for raising awareness, critics, including Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Senator Mike Lee, have accused her of hypocrisy, suggesting that if she believes her home is on “stolen land,” she should forfeit it. DeSantis remarked, “Any white person who does a public ‘stolen land’ acknowledgement should immediately give his or her land to Native Americans. Otherwise, they don’t mean it.” Independent journalist Manny Marotta also pointed out that Eilish has not donated any of her wealth to the original inhabitants of the land.

Native American tribe that owns land under Billie Eilish’s LA mansion has message for virtue-signaling singer

Despite the backlash, the Tongva tribe clarified that they do not view Eilish's comments as outright criticism. They reached out to her team to express gratitude for her statements, indicating that the media may have mischaracterized their response. The spokesperson noted, “The Recording Academy has been an incredible partner to our tribe, and we look forward to continuing the relationship to ensure the voices of the First People of this land are heard and honored.”

Native American Tribe Appreciated Billie Eilish's 'Stolen Land' Comments, Despite Claims She Was Called Out

The interaction between Billie Eilish and the Tongva tribe highlights the complexities of celebrity activism and the importance of direct engagement with Indigenous communities. As discussions around land acknowledgment continue, the Tongva tribe's call for explicit recognition serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for dialogue and understanding regarding historical injustices.

Native American tribe that owns land under Billie Eilish’s LA mansion has message for virtue-signaling singer