Global pop sensation Shakira has opened up about her experience as an immigrant in the United States, describing it as one filled with “constant fear.”
In a recent interview with BBC News, the Colombian artist reflected on her journey to the US and the challenges faced by immigrants, particularly under former President Donald Trump’s administration.
“I was only 19 when I moved to the US, like many other Colombian immigrants who come to this country looking for a better future,” she shared.
Despite decades of success and international fame, Shakira admitted that fear remains a part of her life as an immigrant. “It means living in constant fear. And it’s painful to see,” she said.
She called for unity and compassion, saying, “Now, more than ever, we have to remain united. Now, more than ever, we have to raise our voices and make it very clear that a country can change its immigration policies, but the treatment of all people must always be humane.”
Currently, Shakira is on her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran (Women No Longer Cry) tour, performing to packed audiences across North and South America. One emotional highlight of her concerts is the song Acróstico, which she wrote for her children Milan, 12, and Sasha, 10.
During the performance, both children appear on video screens to sing with her. “They’re just everything to me. They’re my engine and the reason why I’m alive,” she said. “So having them every night on stage, it’s just such a precious moment.”
As for a European leg of the tour, Shakira left fans hopeful with a simple: “Stay tuned.”