On February 17, the passing of legendary Mexican singer Paquita la del Barrio was announced. As fans mourned her loss, many recalled key moments in her career, including the time she fearlessly defended Latino migrants against then-U.S. President Donald Trump.
In April 2017, during Trump’s first term, the Rata de dos patas singer was preparing for a concert at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, California. In an interview with EFE, she spoke out against Trump’s anti-immigrant rhetoric and his threat to send troops to Mexico to combat so-called “bad hombres.”
“No one owns the world. No one has the right to mistreat others, no matter where they are or for what reason,” Paquita stated.
She also praised the bravery of Latino migrants seeking a better future in the U.S.:
“It takes guts to cross the border like many do. Everyone knows it’s dangerous, and that deserves respect—a lot of respect,” she declared.
Before her concert on May 20, 2017, she promised to send a message of support to the migrant community:
“I’m going to tell them I love them. They are people I will always support.”
Paquita la del Barrio Activism in the 2024 Elections
Years later, in 2024, Paquita la del Barrio joined dozens of Mexican artists in the #YaEstuvo campaign, urging people to vote against Trump’s racist and anti-immigrant rhetoric in the November 5 elections.
She shared a video on Instagram with a powerful message:
“Immigrants are part of our community. When we stay silent, we allow them to be attacked and disrespected. Today, we say #YaEstuvo to those useless people!”
Paquita la del Barrio joined artists like Alejandro Fernández, Maná, Los Tigres del Norte, and Los Ángeles Azules in the initiative, aimed at countering Trump’s divisive campaign.
“Today, we stand in solidarity with our Latino brothers and sisters. Our support must be louder and stronger than Trump’s campaign of hate,” the artists stated in a joint declaration.
Her legacy goes beyond music—she will be remembered for her courage in defending those seeking a better life in the United States.
