Selena Gomez recently expressed her deep emotional distress in a now-deleted Instagram video over the deportation of Mexican individuals amid President Donald Trump’s mass deportation efforts. In the video, she tearfully apologized, stating, “I just wanted to say that I’m so sorry. All my people are getting attacked, the children… I don’t understand. I’m so sorry. I wish I could do something but I can’t. I don’t know what to do.” Accompanying her heartfelt message was a text expressing her sorrow and a Mexican flag emoji.
In her video, which has since garnered significant attention online, Gomez vowed to “try everything” to help the affected communities. Following her emotional appeal, she reportedly faced backlash for showing empathy towards those impacted by the deportations. In a subsequent Instagram story, also deleted, she lamented, “Apparently it’s not ok to show empathy for people.”
Born and raised in Texas, Gomez has a strong connection to her Mexican heritage and has frequently celebrated it in her work. In 2021, she released her debut Spanish EP, “Revelación,” and highlighted her family history in an Artist Spotlight Stories short film, proudly sharing her experiences as a Mexican woman. Recently, she starred in “Emilia Perez,” a musical film about a fictional Mexican drug cartel, which received 13 Oscar nominations.
As the deportation operations intensify, the impact on families continues to be a pressing issue. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has recently increased its actions, with reports of nearly 4,094 deportations occurring since January, predominantly involving Mexican nationals. The U.S. government, under Trump’s administration, has reinforced its commitment to border security and the expulsion of individuals deemed threats to public safety or national security.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has acknowledged the high number of deportations, while the Mexican foreign secretary has urged Mexican nationals in the U.S. to know their rights when approached by authorities.
Amidst these developments, Gomez maintains a significant platform to advocate for change. She has actively participated in various philanthropic efforts, focusing on mental health awareness through her makeup brand’s Rare Impact Fund and partnerships with organizations like UNICEF. Gomez’s commitment to activism, especially in elevating the voices of marginalized communities, remains clear, providing a glimmer of hope amidst distressing circumstances.
This situation sheds light on the intersection of celebrity influence and social justice, showing how public figures like Gomez can spark conversations and inspire action regarding urgent issues. While the path forward may be uncertain, voices of empathy and compassion like hers are vital in advocating for the rights and dignity of all individuals.