Neza Sings Spanish National Anthem at Dodger Stadium

Vanessa Hernandez, better known by her stage name Neza, performed a Spanish version of the U.S. national anthem at Dodger Stadium this past Saturday night. Interestingly, she claimed the Dodgers had initially requested her not to sing it. This version, titled “Erpendon Estrellado,” was actually commissioned by President Franklin D. Roosevelt back in 1945.

During her performance, Neza wore a shirt representing the Dominican Republic. She even shared a video on TikTok in which she mentioned her attempt to sing a song in English. An employee of the team, speaking in the video, expressed uncertainty about whether that part of the event was broadcasted.

Despite any reservations, Neza went ahead with the Spanish rendition. In another TikTok video, she explained her motivation, linking it to the tension caused by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in Los Angeles, which have spurred protests and community unrest. “I never thought I’d encounter any kind of resistance,” Neza remarked in the video. “Especially given the current situation in LA. I’ve sung the anthem countless times, but today felt different.” She emphasized it was something she felt she had to do “for my people.”

The Dodgers have not yet released an official statement regarding the ongoing protests in the city. Team manager Dave Roberts, when asked about the situation, opted for a neutral approach, admitting, “Honestly, I don’t have enough information to comment wisely.”

On the same night, Dodgers player Quique Hernandez took to social media to share his thoughts about the protests. He reflected on his connection to the city, stating, “I may have been born and raised somewhere else, but this city has embraced me.” He expressed sadness over the current state of affairs, adding that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. His post included the hashtag #cityofimmigrants.

Other sports teams in Los Angeles, such as Angel City FC, also showed solidarity with the protests, distributing “Immigrant City Football Club” T-shirts during their game on Saturday. Players were seen warming up in these shirts to symbolize their support.

Neza’s rendition coincided with various protests nationwide against the backdrop of President Donald Trump’s birthday, which also marked the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday.