Chappell Roan Says “F*ck ICE Forever”

Chappell Roan turned her Pasadena concert into a political moment Friday night, declaring “F*ck ICE forever” to a roaring crowd. The 27-year-old singer, mid-way through her Visions of Damsels & Other Dangerous Things tour, paused between songs to share how deeply Los Angeles has shaped her—calling it “the best city in the world” and crediting her time in Altadena for showing her the power of community. “This city has taken care of me,” she said. “It’s only my duty to take care of it back.” The statement ended with her blunt callout of ICE, met by chants from fans who matched her fire.

DHS Claps Back (Sort Of)

The Department of Homeland Security wasn’t amused. Tricia McLaughlin, DHS assistant secretary for public affairs, responded via TMZ: “‘Pink Pony Club’ is good. Pedophiles are bad. That’s who we’re getting off our streets. Get a grip.” The comment—snarky and dismissive—sparked immediate backlash online for its tone and lack of supporting data. A recent Cato Institute study shows that nearly two-thirds of those detained by ICE since late 2024 have never been charged with a crime, adding fuel to the debate.

The Art of Speaking Up

Roan’s comment sits within a growing lineage of pop stars using the stage to speak against state power—from Madonna’s anti-war declarations to Halsey’s pro-choice speeches. Her blend of vulnerability and rebellion has become part of her artistic DNA, a kind of queer Americana where glitter meets grit. Whether you see her statement as activism or an outburst, it’s clear she’s not afraid to test the line between performance and protest.

A City, A Crowd, A Moment

In Pasadena that night, it wasn’t about ICE statistics—it was about belonging. About a Missouri girl who found her voice under California skies, thanking the community that made her feel seen. And when the crowd screamed “F*ck ICE,” it wasn’t just defiance. It was a love letter to a city built on contradictions, where art and outrage still dance together under the same spotlight.