In an essay penned for Time, Shakira expressed concern over President Donald Trump’s Muslim ban, saying it’s not just an issue in the United States but “a human issue that has implications on all of us.”
The Colombian singer’s poignant words reflect on an inclusive world, and encourage others to help those who need it the most. “This is an attack on all humans and in particular, the ones most in need of protection,” she writes. “Right now, worldwide, 28 million children have been uprooted by conflict, driven from their homes by violence and terror. Children know no nations and no borders; those who survive will grow up to follow the lead of those who take them in.”
Shakira, who received the Humanitarian Award at World Economic Forum in Jan., also touches on the Latin immigrant community, saying they “don’t come to steal jobs.”
“Latinos are our people … They come seeking an opportunity to build a better life for themselves and for their children, which is what the U.S. has always prided itself on representing: opportunities.”
In her closing remarks, the “Chantaje” singer applauds those who have “spoken out against the ban” and motivates everyone to “keep up the good fight and never back down. #resist.” Read the full essay here.
“Shakira: America Must Protect All Our People” @TIMEhttps://t.co/n0Z24ONQ25 #resist pic.twitter.com/0k9GuEnxH6
— Shakira (@shakira) February 9, 2017
The travel ban became one of President Trump’s executive orders after taking office last month, banning refugees and citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries from entering the U.S. On Thursday, a federal appeals panel unanimously (3-0) rejected Trump’s bid to reinstate his ban.