Selena Gomez, the widely beloved pop icon and actress, has publicly expressed her heartbreak over President Donald Trump’s latest executive orders targeting undocumented immigrants. In a video initially shared on her Instagram, Gomez was seen tearfully reacting to news of Trump’s immigration policies, which include mass deportations and efforts to limit birthright citizenship.
Gomez, who has Mexican-American heritage, said, “All my people are getting attacked, the children… I don’t understand. I’m so sorry, I wish I could do something but I can’t.”
Selena Gomez’s Emotional Plea
The Instagram video, which has since been deleted, showcased Gomez’s raw emotions as she addressed her followers. After taking down the post, she uploaded a text-based story stating, “Apparently it’s not ok to show empathy for people.”
Her reaction highlights the personal connection she feels to the plight of immigrants, particularly those of Mexican descent, as the Mexican government prepares for a surge of deportees expected to return from the United States. This is in response to what Trump has labeled “the largest deportation in American history.”
Selena Gomez broke down in tears over the deportation of Mexican people (Instagram/@selenagomez)
Trump’s Immigration Orders: A Closer Look
President Trump has wasted no time implementing his controversial immigration policies during his second term. Among his latest executive orders, one suspends the entry of undocumented migrants under any circumstances and restricts their ability to invoke protections like asylum. Another executive order revives the “Remain in Mexico” program, requiring asylum seekers to wait in Mexico for their U.S. hearing dates.
These orders are part of a broader effort to enforce stricter immigration laws and halt illegal entries. The administration has also intensified efforts to deport undocumented immigrants, with President Trump calling it a move to “protect American citizens.”
Birthright Citizenship in Question
One of Trump’s most contentious orders targets birthright citizenship, a principle enshrined in the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Birthright citizenship grants automatic U.S. citizenship to individuals born on American soil, regardless of their parents’ immigration status.
Trump’s executive order aims to disallow citizenship for children born in the U.S. whose parents are undocumented immigrants or in the country on temporary visas. This move has sparked widespread legal and political debate, as many experts argue it violates constitutional protections and will likely face immediate legal challenges.
The order outlines restrictions, stating that children born in the U.S. to non-citizen parents would no longer automatically receive citizenship unless one parent is a lawful permanent resident or citizen.
Public and Political Reactions
The response to Trump’s executive orders has been polarizing. Supporters argue that these measures are necessary to uphold the rule of law and prioritize American citizens. They praise Trump’s decisive actions, asserting that undocumented immigration strains public resources and undermines national security.
Conversely, critics, including Gomez and other public figures, have condemned the policies as harsh and inhumane. Advocacy groups warn of the potential consequences for families, particularly those with mixed immigration statuses, as well as the legal complexities of implementing such orders.
Gomez’s emotional reaction has brought significant attention to the human side of the issue, with many fans and fellow celebrities rallying behind her. However, others have criticized her for using her platform to comment on political matters, reflecting the broader division on this topic.
Executive Orders and Their Impact
Trump has made extensive use of executive orders to implement his policy agenda quickly. On his first day back in office, he signed a flurry of orders, including withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement, reversing the TikTok ban delay, and pardoning individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riots.
The sweeping immigration orders are part of Trump’s promise to crack down on illegal immigration. His administration has described birthright citizenship as a “priceless and profound gift” but argues that it should not extend to children of undocumented immigrants or those on temporary visas.
Trump has signed an order to try and limit automatic birthright citizenship (Scott Olson / Staff / Getty Images)
What This Means for Immigrants
The Mexican government is bracing for a significant influx of deportees, with officials preparing resources and support for those returning. The revival of the “Remain in Mexico” program also places additional pressure on Mexico, as asylum seekers will now have to wait in potentially unsafe conditions.
For undocumented immigrants in the U.S., the new policies create an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear. The administration’s stance on birthright citizenship further complicates matters for families with children born in the U.S. but without clear legal status.
Conclusion
Selena Gomez’s emotional response to President Trump’s immigration policies underscores the deeply personal and far-reaching impact of these executive orders. As the administration moves forward with its agenda, the consequences for millions of undocumented immigrants and their families remain at the forefront of national and international discussions.
While Trump’s supporters view these actions as necessary to restore law and order, critics argue that they undermine fundamental human rights and constitutional protections. The legal battles and public debates surrounding these policies are likely to shape the narrative of Trump’s second term.
For Selena Gomez and others speaking out, the fight for immigrant rights has become a deeply personal cause, bringing emotional resonance to a divisive political issue.
