Bad Bunny Excludes U.S. from Tour Due to Safety Concerns
Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny announced on Wednesday that his upcoming international concert tour will exclude the United States to prevent potential detentions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at venues, reports 24brussels.
In a statement, the artist expressed serious concerns over the presence of ICE agents outside concert venues, emphasizing that his choice to forgo performances in the U.S. is not fueled by animosity. “We were very worried about damn ICE standing outside concerts,” he stated, reflecting on his history of successful shows in the country. “I’ve enjoyed connecting with Latinos living in the United States,” he added.
Bad Bunny’s current tour, titled “I Don’t Want to Leave Here,” features 30 concerts in Puerto Rico and will conclude on September 14. Starting in November, he will launch a world tour named “I Should Have Taken More Pictures,” which is intended as a tribute to Puerto Rico, showcasing a fusion of reggaeton, salsa, and plena rhythms.
The singer is notable for leveraging his platform to champion social causes, including LGBTQ rights and immigrant advocacy. Over his career, Bad Bunny has consistently aligned his political views with a strong defense of Puerto Rican identity, opposing colonialism and expressing worries that U.S. statehood could dilute the island’s cultural integrity. He has drawn parallels between Puerto Rico’s potential future and the historical experiences of Hawaii.
Moreover, Bad Bunny has openly critiqued the legacies of colonialism and modern exploitation manifesting through challenges such as gentrification, power outages, and social inequality. His activism includes active participation in protests, notably those that led to the resignation of Puerto Rico’s former Governor Ricardo Rossello in 2019.
During the 2024 U.S. elections, he publicly supported Kamala Harris, amplifying her campaign messages and responding to derisive comments about Puerto Rico made at a Donald Trump rally.
Bad Bunny’s decision to avoid U.S. venues amid rising concerns over immigration enforcement not only reflects his commitment to his fanbase but also underscores the ongoing socio-political issues affecting Puerto Rico and its people.
