Fact Check: "Singer Vanessa Hernández, performing as Nezza, sang the Spanish version of the US national anthem at Dodger Stadium on September 30, 2023, as a protest against recent immigration raids."
What We Know
On September 30, 2023, singer Vanessa Hernández, known by her stage name Nezza, performed the Spanish version of the U.S. national anthem, "El Pendón Estrellado," at Dodger Stadium. This performance was reportedly an act of defiance against recent immigration raids in Los Angeles, which have significantly affected Latino communities. Nezza had been instructed to sing the anthem in English but chose to perform it in Spanish instead, stating, "I just felt like I needed to do it, para mi gente" (for my people) (NBC News, The Hill).
The context of her performance was heightened by ongoing protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in the area, which have drawn significant public outcry. Local officials, including Governor Gavin Newsom and Senator Alex Padilla, have publicly criticized these raids, labeling them as a "humanitarian disaster" (NBC News, The Guardian).
Analysis
The claim that Nezza performed the Spanish version of the national anthem as a protest is substantiated by multiple reliable sources. Reports from NBC News and The Guardian confirm that Nezza's rendition was not only a musical performance but also a political statement reflecting her personal connection to the immigrant experience. The singer's choice to sing in Spanish, despite being told otherwise, underscores her intent to highlight the struggles faced by immigrant communities in Los Angeles.
The sources used in this fact-check are credible news outlets, including NBC News, The Hill, and The Guardian, which are known for their journalistic integrity and coverage of social issues. The information is consistent across these reports, reinforcing the authenticity of the claim.
However, it is important to note that while some audience members applauded her act, others expressed disapproval, indicating a polarized reaction to her performance (NBC News). This diversity of opinion reflects the broader societal debate surrounding immigration policies and their impact on communities.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that Vanessa Hernández, performing as Nezza, sang the Spanish version of the U.S. national anthem at Dodger Stadium on September 30, 2023, as a protest against recent immigration raids is accurate. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms that her performance was both a musical act and a political statement in response to the ongoing immigration crisis affecting Latino communities in Los Angeles.
Sources
- News - The Athletic - The New York Times
- Singer Nezza, at Dodger Stadium sings national anthem in Spanish in protest against L.A. immigration raids
- Singer performs US national anthem in Spanish at Dodger Stadium: 'Felt like I needed to do it'
- Singer at Dodger Stadium performs national anthem in Spanish to protest immigration raids
- Nezza Sings National Anthem In SPANISH At Dodger Stadium
- Nezza Sang the National Anthem in Spanish—And You Could Hear the Courage
- Nezza's translated national anthem shines light on a forgotten Latina trailblazer
- Nezza sings national anthem in Spanish at Dodgers as protest against immigration raids
