Selena Gomez cries over deportations affecting migrants

In January 2025, amidst heightened deportation efforts by the Trump administration in the United States, Selena Gomez shared an emotional video on Instagram, where she broke down in tears expressing her concern for the undocumented immigrants being targeted, particularly children. This video was made in the wake of a nationwide immigration crackdown that occurred on January 26, 2025, resulting in over 950 arrests across major U.S. cities including Denver and Chicago. Following the release of her video, which she later deleted due to backlash, Gomez received mixed responses online, with some supporters appreciating her empathy towards immigrants and others criticizing her for showcasing her emotions publicly. The Trump administration's policies had intensified deportation measures, which were publicly defended by Tom Homan, the administration's border czar. In various media engagements, Homan reiterated the administration's commitment to these policies and advised any dissenters to contact Congress instead of expecting apologies for enforcing the law. This response to Gomez's plea exemplified the stark divide in public opinion regarding immigration policies in the U.S., especially following Trump's declaration of illegal immigration as a national emergency. Selena Gomez, who has a personal connection to the immigrant community due to her Mexican heritage, has been an outspoken advocate for immigration rights in the past. Her documentary, 'Living Undocumented,' spotlighted the struggles of undocumented families and drew attention to the complex immigration system in the U.S. The emotional impact of the deportation policies on her community left Gomez feeling helpless and wanting to act, yet she expressed uncertainty about how to make a difference. The situation resulted in a broader conversation about the treatment of immigrants in the United States, revealing the deep-seated disagreements over immigration policy and humanitarian considerations. Gomez's heartfelt video served as a significant moment, triggering further dialogue about the moral implications of current U.S. immigration practices, and the role of public figures in advocating for vulnerable populations.