Finneas Defends Billie Eilish’S Bold Grammy Speech Amid Tongva Tribe Response

Billie Eilish's Grammys Speech Sparks a Heated Debate

When Billie Eilish took the stage at the 2026 Grammy Awards, it wasn't just about her winning the 'Song of the Year' for 'Wildflower.' The night turned charged as Eilish used her spotlight moment to call out U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) practices and highlight the issue of "stolen land." Her bold statement – "No one is illegal on stolen land" – resonated strongly with some and ruffled feathers in other circles.

While many fans applauded her for speaking up, not everyone was on board. Right-wing critics, in particular, fired back at Eilish's words. However, her brother and music collaborator, Finneas, was quick to jump into the fray, defending her right to speak out. His supportive words on Threads emphasized that discussing these issues is crucial, especially when confronted by those who wish celebrities would remain silent.

“You just can’t do both. You can’t say it doesn’t matter what musicians or celebrities say or think but then talk about it for days.” – Finneas

Tongva Tribe Weighs In

Adding another layer to the conversation, the Tongva tribe – the indigenous people of the Los Angeles Basin often referred to as the "First Angelenos" – responded thoughtfully to Eilish's comments. While they appreciated the awareness brought to the true history of the area, they noted that Eilish hadn't contacted them directly about her remarks.

The tribe's spokesperson expressed hope that future discussions will explicitly reference their heritage, ensuring the public recognizes that Los Angeles remains Gabrieleno Tongva territory. They acknowledged their partnership with the Recording Academy, which included crafting the official Land Acknowledgment statement shared during Grammy week, marking a step towards wider recognition and respect for their ancestral land.

The Role of Celebrities in Political Discourse

Eilish's actions have reignited the ongoing debate about celebrity activism. Her Grammys moment joins a series of public statements by other stars like Pedro Pascal and Olivia Rodrigo, who have also spoken against what they see as unfair ICE practices. While some critics urge celebrities to focus solely on entertainment, others argue that these influential voices are vital in spotlighting social issues.

Finneas's stance on using his platform for advocacy reflects a broader sentiment within the entertainment industry. For many artists, remaining silent feels like complicity, and they choose to speak out despite potential backlash. As this conversation continues, it is clear that the role of celebrities in political discourse is far from settled, with figures like Eilish and Finneas leading the charge for change.