Nezza says she sang national anthem in Spanish at Dodger Stadium against team’s wishes…read more…

Nezza says she sang national anthem in Spanish at Dodger Stadium against team’s wishes…read more…

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Nezza Defies Dodgers After Being Instructed to Sing Anthem in English — Performs it in Spanish “for my people”

Los Angeles, June 16, 2025 — Dominican-Colombian singer and social media figure Vanessa Hernández — known to fans as Nezza — sparked waves of controversy and emotion at Dodger Stadium on Saturday. Just before the Los Angeles Dodgers faced off against the San Francisco Giants, a team staffer reportedly told her to perform “The Star‑Spangled Banner” exclusively in English, only for Nezza to respond defiantly: she sang it in Spanish.

A video that quickly went viral on TikTok captures the moment. The staffer tells her calmly, “We are going to do the song in English today…,” to which Nezza’s smile fades. Moments later, she launches into “El Pendón Estrellado,” the Spanish rendition officially commissioned by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1945 as part of his Good Neighbor Policy.

The rendition — originally penned by Peruvian‑American composer Clotilde Arias — bore deep personal and political resonance. In a tearful follow‑up video, Nezza explained: “I’ve sung the national anthem many times… but today, out of all days, I could not. I just felt like I needed to do it. Para mi gente — for my people.” She expressed immense pride in her immigrant background and honored her parents, who she said “got documented really early,” yet still feel the looming threat of family separation.

Nezza’s choice came against the backdrop of widespread protests in Los Angeles—especially the “No Kings Day” movement and rallies denouncing recent ICE raids targeting immigrant families. Her performance was widely interpreted as an act of protest and solidarity.

Despite her fears that she might face backlash or even be banned from future Dodger events, Nezza was reportedly told by the team’s front office that no disciplinary action would be taken. She remains “welcome back,” according to a club representative.

The incident triggered a spectrum of reactions:

Celebrity and ally support

Singer/actress Becky G reposted Nezza’s TikTok, writing: “Don’t you dare turn your backs on us now.… THINK ABOUT WHO FILLS UP YOUR STADIUM.” Jason Mraz commented publicly: “You did the right thing. Let freedom sing!” George Lopez and his daughter also reached out with heartfelt messages.

Solidarity from within LA sports

Dodgers utility player Kiké Hernández (no relation) took to Instagram, condemning immigrant raids and calling for dignity and respect for all. Giants first baseman Dominic Smith echoed those sentiments.

Sean backlash from partisans

Some fans criticized Nezza, accusing her of disrespecting national tradition. One vocal detractor declared they’d “never attend another Dodger game” if she returned.

As the story continues to unfold, the Dodgers organization itself remains relatively silent on broader political matters. Manager Dave Roberts offered a cautious statement: “I just hope that we can be a positive distraction for what people are going through in Los Angeles right now.” Meanwhile, the front office has avoided deep commentary beyond confirming Nezza will not be censored.

Nezza sings national anthem in Spanish at Dodgers as protest against immigration raids

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Why it matters:

Nezza’s decision underscores the ongoing tension between patriotism and protest, cultural identity and tradition. By choosing the Spanish version of the anthem—which carries historical legitimacy—she illuminated a dialogue about representation and belonging in America. At a time when immigration debates dominate headlines, her performance has reignited questions about whose voices are included—or excluded—on public stages.

Whether seen as a bold act of cultural affirmation or a controversial political statement, Nezza’s anthem rendition has won her viral attention, encouraged solidarity, and provoked reflection on unity, diversity, and national symbols.

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