In a bold act of solidarity with citywide immigration protests, singer Nezza sang the national anthem in Spanish before Saturday night's game at Dodger Stadium, going against the Los Angeles Dodgers' request for an English rendition. This act coincided with the "No Kings" protests, a nationwide demonstration against President Donald Trump's immigration enforcement policies that have ignited tensions in multiple cities.
Nezza, whose real name is Vanessa Hernandez, chose to perform in Spanish as a statement during a week marked by significant unrest in Los Angeles. Her defiance was documented in a TikTok video, showing a Dodgers official instructing her to sing "The Star-Spangled Banner" in English, a directive she visibly reacted to with surprise. Despite this, Nezza proceeded with her planned performance in Spanish.
Wearing a Dominican Republic jersey, Nezza's performance was met with loud cheers from the crowd, a clear sign of support for her decision. The audience's response at the game between the Dodgers and Giants suggested a strong backing for the choice to honor the Spanish language despite the team management's resistance, as reported by the Daily Mail.
Nezza's TikTok post referenced a historical precedent set in 1945 when President Franklin D. Roosevelt commissioned a Spanish translation of the national anthem. Her decision to follow through with her Spanish performance was further explained in an emotional video posted the same night, in which she expressed her shock and emotion over the incident.
"I didn't think I'd be met with any sort of no, especially because we are in LA," Nezza said in the video. "I just felt like I needed to do it." Her actions were rooted in her personal connection to the immigrant community, being the daughter of immigrants herself.
The singer's emotional turmoil was palpable as she voiced her frustration with the current immigration enforcement activities in Los Angeles. Nezza also feared potential consequences for her actions, stating, "Safe to say I am never allowed in that stadium again." However, contrary to her concerns, Nezza was not punished and has not been banned from future appearances at Dodger Stadium.
Nezza's act of defiance and the subsequent emotional response highlight the complex and contentious debate surrounding immigration policies and national identity in the United States. Her performance serves as a reminder of the country's diverse fabric and the ongoing struggle for immigrant rights amidst a heated political climate.
