By LINDSEY WAGONER
Jennifer Lopez and Shakira made history with their message to the world during their fiery halftime show at the 2020 Super Bowl. They sent shock waves throughout the political sphere with a clear message of unity for the Hispanic community, support for Puerto Rico and criticism of detention of migrant children.
From empowering women and Latinas to singing in Spanish, the halftime show was packed with honor to Hispanic heritage. Lopez sported a magnificent feathered Versace coat featuring a Puerto Rican flag in the interior and American flag on the exterior. Her daughter, Emme Maribel Muniz, in a surprise appearance, sang Bruce Springsteen’s hit, “Born in the USA.” A reminder that Puerto Ricans are American citizens.
Perhaps the most brazen political statement was Lopez’s daughter singing “Let’s Get Loud” while images of children trapped in illuminated cages appeared on the stage. The children were dressed in all white, with American flags embroidered on their chests. A showcase of the cruelty and crisis at the border.
The spectacle was stacked with cultural diversity. Shakira’s first words to the audience at the Hard Rock Stadium, in Miami Gardens Florida was, “Hola Miami!” Entire verses were sung in Spanish. Shakira made an odd sound with her tongue, a nod to her Arabaic culture; it is an expression of joy, known as zaghrouta. Staying true to her Colombian roots she incorporated champeta and mapalé dance traditions in her dazzling performance.
Moments before Lopez took to the stage, she said on Instagram, “All I want my girls, the little girls on stage with me and all over the world to know is how to use their voices and be proud of everything they are. We are proud to recognize that all of us together are what makes this beautiful country truly great.”
The first shocking policy rolled out by Team Trump was child separation at the border. When refugees, who were fleeing violence, came to the United States to claim asylum, the Administration ripped children out of their mother’s arms. Thousands of children are now orphans while others were killed during the Administration’s detainment. Not only are they being taken away from their parents, they are living in unfathomable conditions. Conditions that are so atrocious, cameras are not allowed to document the severity of mistreatment.
Fellow Latina artist, Ally Brooke said on Twitter, “This is what history looks like. This is what inspiration looks like. This is what Latina looks like.”
This is what history looks like. This is what inspiration looks like. This is what Latina looks like ?????????? pic.twitter.com/lUNuGlR6Qw
— Ally Brooke (@AllyBrooke) February 3, 2020
Small business owner, Nora Pipia from Warwick, N.Y said, “This is the best halftime show I have ever seen.”
Bring it on, Let’s Rock
On the national stage, Lopez, 50, and Shakira, 43, brought fiery passion and sent a clear message of unity to a global audience. They were fearless and confronted the cruelty and contempt the government has toward immigrants. The performance sent a strong counterpunch to the Administration.
The duo’s performance will be acclaimed for its stylistic and direct condemnation of Trump’s government, critics say. Shakira and JLo’s exceptional performance will be regarded as one of the most memorable, electric and illustrious halftime shows in history.
Very interesting take on the halftime show! I liked that you included different sources from around your community and their opinions on it as well. Images and social media add great depth and detail to the article.