Billie Eilish Honored With MLK Jr. Environmental Justice Award After Week of Political Backlash

Just over a week after the Department of Homeland Security publicly criticized her for sharing anti-ICE messages on Instagram, Billie Eilish was celebrated for her activism in Atlanta.

On Saturday, Jan. 17, Eilish received the 2026 MLK Jr. Beloved Community Environmental Justice Award at a ceremony hosted by The King Center at the Hyatt Regency in downtown Atlanta.

The honor recognizes Eilish’s growing commitment to environmental and social justice. In October, her philanthropy gained widespread attention after it was revealed she planned to donate $11.5 million from her sold-out Hit Me Hard and Soft tour to organizations focused on climate justice, cutting carbon pollution, and improving food equity through The Changemaker Program. She also made headlines last year when she challenged billionaire guests at The Wall Street Journal Magazine’s 2025 Innovators Awards — including Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg — to “give your money away.”

“I Don’t Feel Deserving”

Eilish was introduced by environmental activist Wawa Gatheru, founder of Black Girl Environmentalist. Accepting the award, the singer appeared emotional and conflicted.

“To be honest, I really don’t feel deserving,” Eilish said. “It’s very strange to be celebrated for environmental justice at a time when it feels less achievable than ever.”

Reading from a small piece of paper, she spoke about her fears for the country and the world, referencing immigration raids by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, attacks on protesters, shrinking civil rights, and the prioritization of fossil fuels over climate action. She also criticized the growing lack of access to basic needs like food and healthcare.

“It’s very clear that protecting our planet and our communities is not a priority for this administration,” she said. “It’s really hard to celebrate when we no longer feel safe in our own homes or streets.”

Voices From the Community

Social Justice award recipient Mónica A. Ramírez, founder of Justice for Migrant Women, echoed Eilish’s concerns. She spoke about the fear immigration enforcement has caused in Latino communities and praised the King Center for honoring outspoken advocates.

“I understand that my receiving this recognition today speaks to the courage of Bernice King and the King Center to give someone like me a platform in this moment,” Ramírez said.

Other honorees included EGOT winner Viola Davis, former Atlanta Falcons star Warrick Dunn, and Gloria James on behalf of the LeBron James Family Foundation.

Presenters throughout the evening included Iain Armitage, former White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, and actor Sean Freeman. Sonia Manzano presented the Christine King Farris Legacy of Service in Education Award to Sesame Workshop. Musical performances included a set by Chance the Rapper.

A Night of Hope

Bernice King, CEO of the King Center and daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., described the event — attended by about 1,000 people — as “a celebration of humanity at its best.” She said this year’s MLK theme, “Mission Possible 2: Building Community, Uniting a Nation the Nonviolent Way,” felt especially urgent.

By the end of the evening, Eilish said she felt renewed hope.

“I’m so inspired by all the stories and the people in this room,” she said, thanking her parents — especially her mother — for shaping her values. “I have this platform, and I think it’s my responsibility to use it. I feel like I’m just doing what anyone in my position should be doing.”

The awards ceremony, co-hosted by Tony winner Anika Noni Rose and actor Aldis Hodge, will air on BET in February.