Billie Eilish has publicly condemned recent actions by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), following the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by a Border Patrol agent in Minneapolis on January 24. The incident, which occurred during ICE raids in Minnesota, has sparked outrage among young celebrities and activists.
The Shooting of Alex Pretti and the Public Response
According to reports, Pretti was unarmed when shot by Border Patrol, despite legally possessing a firearm. Eilish, along with her brother Finneas, shared videos and infographics on Instagram criticizing the justification for the shooting. Finneas pointed out the hypocrisy of arguments used to defend the Second Amendment while simultaneously excusing law enforcement violence.
“Every argument I’ve seen for why Alex Pretti’s death was justified yesterday is like, ‘Well he had a gun.’”
Eilish responded with frustration, stating that Pretti was defenseless at the time of the shooting and did not draw his weapon. The pair then called out other celebrities to use their platforms to speak out against ICE.
Broader Criticism of ICE Tactics
This incident follows earlier criticism of ICE over the killing of Renee Nicole Good, with Eilish previously stating that Americans “no longer feel safe in our own homes or in our streets” due to the agency’s actions. The rising tensions reflect growing public disapproval of ICE’s tactics and a broader demand for accountability.
Celebrity Activism at Sundance
At the Sundance Film Festival, other celebrities like Olivia Wilde wore an “ICE Out” pin and condemned the situation. Wilde stated, “I’m horrified by this string of murders that we’re somehow legitimizing and normalizing.” Olivia Rodrigo also posted in support, stating that “ICEs actions are unconscionable but we are not powerless.”
The coordinated response from young stars underscores a shift in celebrity activism, where prominent figures increasingly use their platforms to address political and social issues directly. The call for fellow celebrities to speak out highlights the expectation that public figures will leverage their influence to demand systemic change.
The situation in Minnesota, combined with broader criticism of ICE, reinforces the need for continued scrutiny of law enforcement tactics and immigration policies. The actions of Eilish, Wilde, and others demonstrate a growing willingness among celebrities to take public stands on controversial issues.
