Ellen DeGeneres expressed her support for anti-ICE protesters in Minneapolis, referring to the city as the “happiest in America” in a video shared on Instagram. She voiced her sorrow over the current situation in Minneapolis and across the country, while praising those participating in peaceful demonstrations.
In the video, DeGeneres reflected on her recent Netflix comedy special, “Ellen DeGeneres: For Your Approval,” which she filmed in Minneapolis. She emphasized her fondness for the city, stating, “They say it’s the happiest city in America. And I found that to be true.”
While she expressed sympathy for those affected by the protests and solidarity with demonstrators, her comments faced a backlash. Critics took to social media to express their discontent, questioning her involvement given her recent move abroad following President Trump’s re-election. Various commenters stated that her opinion no longer held weight, with some suggesting that the protests had escalated to riots.
Despite the negative feedback, a portion of her followers praised DeGeneres for her support of the protesters, highlighting unity and the importance of her voice during these tumultuous times in Minneapolis. One user thanked her for her support, underscoring the difficulties faced by residents amid the ongoing tension.
DeGeneres’s statements come in the wake of heightened scrutiny on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following recent events in Minneapolis, including the tragic death of Renee Good, which has sparked broader protests against federal immigration policies. Other celebrities, such as Bruce Springsteen and Rosie O’Donnell, have also joined the conversation, with Springsteen vocally opposing ICE’s actions during a concert and O’Donnell expressing concern over the militarized response to civil unrest.
Overall, the conversation surrounding ICE and the protests in Minneapolis continues to grow, as voices from various sectors, including the entertainment industry, weight in on the pressing social issues of the time.