Gloria Estefan Speaks Out on Immigration Concerns Amid Rising Fears

By Zoe Papadakis | Thursday, 30 October 2025 12:25 PM EDT

Gloria Estefan revealed she carries her passport at all times in the U.S. due to growing fears over immigration policies. The Cuban-American singer and four-time Grammy Award winner made the remarks while drawing parallels between current U.S. immigration practices and the regime her family fled in Cuba under Fidel Castro.

In an interview, Estefan described witnessing individuals detained despite having lived legally in the country for decades. “I have lived in the U.S. for 66 years—never have I seen freedoms being eroded in this way,” she said. “I know people who are in the country legally and have been taken away.”

She highlighted a case involving a woman who had resided in the U.S. for 25 years, entered lawfully with a visa, and paid taxes. “In her last immigration appointment, she was detained and has been in a center for five months,” Estefan said.

The recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2015 added, “I carry my passport card just in case, because who knows what can happen. I was born in Cuba—this is why we’re wary, as this is how things happened there.”

Estefan also expressed concern over routine actions, such as speaking Spanish in public, which she described as a growing source of anxiety for her and her family. “When we’re out with the family, it’s natural to speak Spanish,” she said.

In a separate interview, she voiced fears about being questioned if heard speaking Spanish, stating, “It would be incredible if I were arrested for speaking Spanish. I hope it doesn’t come to this.”

While emphasizing the need for “legal and organized” immigration, Estefan condemned harsh treatment of migrants, including family separations and mistreatment of individuals. She also mentioned reports of Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny avoiding U.S. tours due to immigration raids but dismissed concerns with a dismissive remark about his future performances.

Zoe Papadakis is a writer based in South Africa with two decades of experience in media and entertainment.