Billie Eilish criticizes Trump administration ICE raids during MLK awards speech

Billie's full acceptance speech for being honored with the 'Environmental Justice Award' at the MLK, Jr. Beloved Community Awards last night in Atlanta, Georgia! 🌍

📸: 21liliaa via TikTok pic.twitter.com/MhthIrMr19

The singer accepted the Environmental Justice Award on Sunday and acknowledged that being honored felt unusual given the current political climate. Eilish said it was “very strange” to be recognized for environmental justice work at a time when progress in those areas feels increasingly difficult.

During her speech, Eilish condemned recent immigration enforcement actions and broader policy decisions, saying communities are witnessing people being forcibly taken from their neighborhoods, peaceful protesters facing violence, and civil rights being rolled back. She also pointed to cuts in climate-related resources, the continued expansion of fossil fuels and animal agriculture, and growing inequality in access to food and health care, which she said are becoming privileges rather than basic rights.

“It is very clear that protecting our planet and our communities are not a priority for this administration,” Eilish said, adding that it is difficult to celebrate environmental progress when many Americans no longer feel safe in their homes or public spaces.

Eilish said she remains motivated by fellow honorees at the event, including Viola Davis, and credited her mother for instilling strong values in her. She explained that she feels a responsibility to speak out on social issues because of her public platform.

“All I really have is a platform,” Eilish said. “And I think it’s my responsibility to use it.”

The remarks are consistent with Eilish’s past public statements. In October, while accepting the Music Innovator Award at the WSJ Magazine Innovator Awards, she urged billionaires to redistribute their wealth. Shortly afterward, she also criticized Tesla and X owner Elon Musk in a post on her Instagram Stories.

Eilish’s speech has since circulated widely online, drawing attention to her continued willingness to address political and social issues in high-profile settings.