Singer Nezza Performs National Anthem in Spanish at Dodger Stadium

On Saturday, singer and social media personality Nezza performed the national anthem in Spanish at Dodger Stadium, despite being instructed to sing it in English. The performance took place amid heightened tensions in Los Angeles over recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities. In a video shared on social media, an official can be heard telling Nezza, “So we are going to do it in English today. I’m not sure if that was relayed.” However, Nezza chose to sing the Star-Spangled Banner in Spanish, a version originally commissioned in 1945.

Nezza later explained her decision in a TikTok video, saying, “I just felt like I needed to do it. Para mi gente.” She added, “Safe to say I’m never allowed in that stadium ever again.” The performance occurred during a time when some residents were urging high-profile organizations, like the Dodgers, to take a stand on ICE activities, while others believed sports should remain neutral.

Fan opinions were divided. Yvonne Esquivel told KTLA, “Keep sports, sports. And when it’s a community action type of response, then let the community speak.” Another fan, Walter Jones, added, “Everybody has an opinion, and I think personally, when it comes to sports, it’s sports.” However, longtime fan Mike Hurst expressed disappointment that the Dodgers hadn’t publicly addressed the issue, given their influence in the city.

The Dodgers have not released an official statement regarding the protests or ICE raids but have clarified that fan misconduct will not be tolerated. Recently, a spectator was removed from the stands for holding an anti-ICE sign, prompting mixed reactions from the crowd. Dodgers utility player Kiké Hernández voiced his concerns on social media, stating, “This is my second home, and I cannot stand to see our community being violated, profiled, abused and ripped apart. ALL people deserve to be treated with respect, dignity and human rights.” Manager Dave Roberts expressed hope that the team could serve as a “positive distraction” during these challenging times.