Nezza's Spanish Anthem at Dodger Stadium Sparks Debate Amid ICE Raids in Los Angeles
June 15, 2025
ICE raids in Los Angeles have sparked protests and political controversy since June 6, 2025, including a notable incident where Senator Alex Padilla was arrested.
The Dodgers organization confirmed that Nezza faced no repercussions for her performance and is welcome to return to the stadium in the future.
Nezza emphasized the importance of representation, asserting that America's story includes all individuals, regardless of language.
Vanessa Hernández, known as Nezza, performed a Spanish version of the U.S. national anthem at Dodger Stadium on June 14, 2025, despite claims that the Dodgers preferred an English rendition.
In a heartfelt TikTok video, Nezza shared her emotional response to the performance and highlighted her family's immigrant background, expressing pride in her decision to sing in Spanish.
She felt compelled to perform in Spanish due to the pressing social issues in Los Angeles, stating, 'I just felt like I needed to do it. Para mi gente.'
Dodgers player Kike Hernández expressed his sadness and anger over the situation on social media, advocating for respect and dignity for immigrants.
During her performance, Nezza wore a Dominican Republic jersey, which was well-received by the crowd, who cheered loudly at the end of her rendition.
Despite individual expressions of concern from players, the Dodgers organization has not issued any formal statement regarding Nezza's performance or the surrounding issues.
Team manager Dave Roberts acknowledged the unsettling nature of the deportations and expressed a desire for the team to be a positive distraction amid community tensions.
The Dodgers have faced criticism for their silence on escalating ICE actions, despite having a Latino fanbase that makes up over 40% of their supporters.
Her TikTok post about the Spanish rendition gained over 4 million views, highlighting the historical authorization of the anthem's Spanish version by the U.S. government in 1945.
Summary based on 7 sources
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Sources

Los Angeles Times • Jun 15, 2025
Nezza says she sang anthem in Spanish against Dodgers' wishes - Los Angeles Times
Variety • Jun 15, 2025
Nezza Performs National Anthem in Spanish for Dodgers Despite Warning