A symbolic number, Spanish and light blue flag: the strong political messages that Bad Bunny's show left behind
Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show was a powerful cultural intervention, highlighting historical memory, Latin American identity, and the immigration context.
During the Super Bowl halftime show, Bad Bunny utilized one of the most watched stages in the United States to deliver impactful political messages interwoven with his performance. Lasting over 13 minutes, the show highlighted Latin American history, culture, and the immigrant experience, particularly against the backdrop of a hardening official discourse on immigration during Donald Trump's second presidential term.
The set design showcased evocative references such as a sugarcane plantation, a neighborhood barber shop, a New York bodega, and the familiar 'casita' (little house) of Puerto Rico. These symbols were not only visually compelling but also served to reinforce the narrative of Latin American identity and the struggles faced by immigrants in the U.S. This performance underlined the importance of cultural representation, especially in a political climate that often marginalizes these communities.
In blending entertainment with a strong political message, Bad Bunny's show underscores the role artists can play in social commentary. By using such a prominent platform, he calls attention to pressing issues such as immigration and cultural identity, making his performance not just a celebration of music and culture but also a form of activism.