Billie Eilish’s Grammy Speech Draws Response from Native American Tribe
The recent Grammy speech by Billie Eilish has stirred reactions from the Tongva Native American tribe, particularly due to her remarks about land rights and immigration. After winning the “Song of the Year” award for “Wildflower,” Eilish addressed immigration issues, stating, “No one is illegal on stolen land.”
Billie Eilish’s Grammy Speech and Its Impact
During her acceptance speech, Eilish criticized the rise of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations, particularly in Minneapolis. She urged her audience to “keep fighting and speaking up” against injustices, further declaring, “F— ICE!”
Reactions from the Tongva Tribe
The Tongva tribe, the original inhabitants of the greater Los Angeles Basin, recognized Eilish’s comments about “stolen land” as a significant acknowledgment. However, they expressed a desire for her to explicitly mention their tribe when discussing land ownership. A spokesperson for the tribe noted that while Eilish had not directly contacted them, they appreciated public figures raising awareness about historical injustices.
“We value visibility to the true history of this country,” the spokesperson remarked. They emphasized the importance of recognizing the Gabrieleno Tongva territory in future conversations.
Controversial Response to Eilish’s Remarks
Following Eilish’s speech, a controversial figure, Drew Pavlou, announced plans to occupy her former Malibu home as a provocative response to her statements. Pavlou had initiated a crowdfunding effort to support his endeavor. However, his campaign was removed from GoFundMe due to verification issues, although he later launched a successful campaign on another platform.
Interestingly, Eilish’s former property, which she owned with her brother Finneas O’Connell, was sold for $5.6 million in 2022. The house later burned down in a fire, leaving some aspects of the story hypothetical. Currently, Eilish resides at an equestrian ranch in Glendale, which is still located within the ancestral lands of the Tongva.
High Stakes in Public Discourse
The reactions to Billie Eilish’s remarks have sparked discussions around issues of land rights and immigration reform. They interrogate how public figures navigate complex issues and the potential implications of their statements.
- Key Figures: Billie Eilish, Finneas O’Connell, Drew Pavlou
- Location: Greater Los Angeles Basin
- Tribe: Tongva Native American Tribe
- Property Sale: Sold for $5.6 million in 2022
- Public Reaction: Mixed responses to Eilish’s speech
This incident showcases the intricate dynamics between celebrity activism, indigenous rights, and public discourse. The spotlight on such issues can foster important dialogues about social justice and history.
