Recording artist Lizzo has expressed profound emotion regarding the ongoing violence and political turmoil surrounding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in Minneapolis, the city where she launched her music career. In a video shared on Wednesday, January 28, Lizzo acknowledged the widespread feeling of helplessness but offered concrete ways for her followers to assist, based on discussions with local organizers.

Lizzo highlighted a GoFundMe campaign for Jayla Ramirez, whose father was detained by ICE in Minneapolis. The campaign seeks $20,000 for bail and an additional $10,000 for lawyer fees. She also drew attention to Smitten Kitten, a Minneapolis sex shop that has transformed into a crucial hub for mutual aid and resources for those in need, and Glam Doll Donuts, located directly across from the site where ICU nurse Alex Pretti was fatally shot by an ICE agent on January 24, as establishments requiring community support.

The Grammy winner clarified her intentions, stating that while she is acutely aware of the current financial recession, she never expects fans or those in less fortunate financial situations to donate. Instead, she aims to reach affluent individuals, celebrities, and influencers who possess the means to contribute. Lizzo became visibly emotional as she reflected on Minneapolis, noting a recurring pattern of injustice in the city, citing past events involving Philando Castile, Jamar Clark, and George Floyd. However, she also emphasized the community's consistent resilience and ability to rise up in response.

Throughout January, ICE has conducted immigration enforcement operations in Minneapolis, provoking widespread outrage and numerous local protests. The month saw two civilians fatally shot by ICE officers: Alex Pretti on January 24, and Renee Good on January 7, killed by agent Jonathan Ross. The Donald Trump administration has consistently asserted that these were acts of self-defense, but many eyewitness accounts and videos challenge this narrative.

Shortly after her Minneapolis appeal, Lizzo shared another emotional update regarding a different tragedy. Los Angeles activist Shirley Raines, 58, known for her TikTok presence distributing essentials to unhoused individuals on Skid Row through her charity Beauty 2 The Streetz, passed away. Lizzo expressed her devastation on Instagram Stories, praising Raines as an "incredible woman" and recounting their charitable collaborations. She highlighted Raines' unwavering support during difficult times, noting, "When the public was turning its back on me, she never did. She was like, 'Stay encouraged.' She would always send me messages of love, and she would never ever ask for anything in return." Lizzo mourned Raines' passing, remarking on the rarity of such individuals and the enduring impact of her work serving the underserved.