Diego Luna, dressed in black and sporting a subtle smile, was the guest host on Jimmy Kimmel Live this past Monday in Los Angeles. Luna, for whom English is a second language, received an enthusiastic response from the audience as he shared that it was his first time hosting a show in English. However, the tone quickly shifted as he addressed a significant issue concerning immigration and the authoritarian policies of former President Donald Trump.
During his opening monologue, Luna reflected on the immigration experience through personal anecdotes that highlighted the rich cultural tapestry of Los Angeles. He shared a touching story about a Korean woman and a Mexican man who fell in love, raised children, and opened a taco restaurant with a twist of kimchi. Luna remarked that this blend of cultures epitomizes the spirit of Los Angeles.
Luna emphasized that no one leaves their homeland unless their survival depends on it, stating, “All immigrants bring more than just memories; they bring their stories, loyalties, love, and traditions.” He spoke passionately about how immigrant narratives enrich American culture, pointing out the collective struggles that unite different communities.
He cited historical cooperation between Filipino and Hispanic workers in California’s agricultural fields to form the first union, underscoring that the country’s foundation has been shaped by immigrant labor. Furthermore, he criticized the prevailing environment of fear that millions of migrants face and condemned political narratives that seek to criminalize essential workers who contribute significantly to the economy.
Citing statistics, Luna noted that immigrants collectively contributed $96.7 billion in taxes in 2022 alone, asserting, “This country benefits from immigrant labor but refuses to acknowledge their importance.” His impassioned speech called for urgency in advocating for a pathway to legal status for immigrants, urging the audience to share their stories and combat misinformation.
Additionally, the episode featured musician Nezza, who, inspired by recent events, decided to perform the national anthem in Spanish at a Dodgers game. She expressed her desire to honor her community, stating, “Something took over me,” when she deviated from her original plan, embodying the spirit of resistance through music.
Luna’s powerful address resonated deeply, garnering over 110,000 reactions shortly after its broadcast. Viewers praised the moment, calling it a much-needed voice of compassion in a challenging world.
This episode serves as a reminder of the vital contributions immigrants make and the necessity of empathy in discourse surrounding immigration policies. Luna’s courage in using a prominent platform to advocate for change is inspiring and reflects a growing awareness of social issues in popular media.