Group Firme advocates for tranquility in protests and acknowledges encountering difficulties with immigration in the U.S.
In the midst of heated protests against ICE immigration raids** in Los Angeles, Grupo Firme spoke up about their own immigration woes but urged peace among demonstrators.
The band's rep, Isael Gutiérrez, addressed the media, clarifying that the band's migratory challenges don't necessarily mean visa cancellations, but rather a common administrative process. "We've got over a hundred folks ahead of us in line for this review," he shared.
Meanwhile, Emiliano Aguilar cancels a show in the US, eliciting fan approval: "You're the first to do it". The artist stood with migrants amid the protests, echoing Grupo Firme's message of unity. "Peace fosters peace, and unity breeds change," Emiliano claimed.
It's worth noting that such administrative hassles aren't exclusive to major acts like Grupo Firme. Day of Los Tigres del Norte proclaimed in the US amidst migratory crisis: "We will continue to sing for immigrants" displays the sharewide industry struggle.
Similarly, Jorge Medina and Josi Cuen, ex-vocalists of La Arrolladora Banda El Limón, have run into visa roadblocks, scuttling several dates on their "Juntos 2025" tour in California. Their concerts in San José, Los Angeles, Chula Vista, Fresno, and Sacramento have been postponed due to Josi Cuen's ongoing visa review.
In a statement, the artists apologized and committed to rescheduling the postponed dates, expressing their determination to stage an unforgettable performance once they've resolved the issue. "We are working tirelessly to ensure this wait will be rewarding," they promised.
Interestingly, these slews of visa troubles for Mexican artists aren't confined to censorship, fiscal concerns, or unlawful conduct. Julión Álvarez and Los Alegres del Barranco, for instance, faced visa revocations due to allegations of connections to drug cartels or violent cartel glorification in their work[2][3]. The U.S. Department of State typically withholds specific reasons for these actions, citing confidentiality[2][3].
In these situations, artists might need to navigate complex administrative processes, possibly consulting immigration lawyers or turning to alternative performance venues like virtual concerts[5]. Industry support could come from promoters and peers who may assist in rescheduling performances or lobbying for policy changes to alleviate visa restrictions[5].
Artists should ensure their work complies with U.S. laws and policies, maintain thorough documentation, and engage actively with U.S. immigration authorities to help resolve visa issues more efficiently[5]. However, the current political climate in the U.S. is increasingly leaning towards stricter immigration policies, which may result in more frequent visa revocations and detrimental impacts on the Latin music industry[4].
- The migration issue in Los Angeles has affected not only individuals but also the entertainment industry, as Day of Los Tigres del Norte was proclaimed in the US amidst the migratory crisis, with the band vowing to continue singing for immigrants.
- The disturbances in the realm of politics, including stricter immigration policies, have ultimately impacted the music industry, leading to visa troubles for artists like Julión Álvarez and Los Alegres del Barranco, who've faced revocations due to alleged connections with drug cartels.
- In response to these challenging circumstances, Mexican artists such as Jorge Medina, Josi Cuen, Emiliano Aguilar, and even major acts like Grupo Firme, have had to navigate complex administrative processes, resorting to consultation with immigration lawyers or alternative performance venues like virtual concerts.
