Chilean Singer Mon Laferte Goes Topless During Latin Grammys to Support Protesters

For a few weeks now, Chile has been plagued with relentless protests from citizens. Millions have taken to the streets to protest against the economic instability and inequality in the state. Among the citizens, famous personalities also showed their support for the cause, including popular Chilean singer Mon Laferte.

During the Latin Grammys held in Las Vegas, the 36-year-old singer and songwriter made a bold political statement. While some people took to the streets, Mon Laferte used the prestigious event as an opportunity to bring awareness to the chaotic protests in her home country.

While walking in the red carpet, Mon Laferte took off her black jacket to expose her bare chest. The singer conveyed her support to the protesters by writing a powerful message on her chest which reads: "En Chile torturan violan y matan," which translates to "In Chile they torture, rape, and kill."

(Photo : Reuters)

During the biggest night in the Latin music industry, Mon Laferte's album "Norma" coveted the award for the best alternative album. The singer used this opportunity to address the protesters in her acceptance speech, which was met with applause from the crowd:

"I want to thank my colleagues, and especially to the public, the people, the fans that are there; without people, nothing could happen," she said. Later on, Mon Laferte shared a photo on her Instagram dedicated to the people of Chile.

A month ago, the Chilean government announced its plans to increase subway fares, amongst many economic and political changes established by former president Augusto Pinochet. These events prompted the demonstrations which lasted for more than three weeks.

As the demonstrators and police clash with one another, many lives were caught in the middle of the three-week demonstrations. Due to the relentless protests, blood was inevitably shed as more than 20 people have already died; 5 of which allegedly died at the hands of the authorities.

(Photo : Reuters)

Mon Laferte's message targets Chile's state forces, which were accused of atrocious crimes during the protests. According to the protesters, in order to stop the demonstrations, some authorities resorted to torture, violence, and even rape. 

In addition to the rising casualties, the protests were also taking a hit in the country's economy. Businesses and establishments are closing due to the protests, during which Chilean businesses allegedly lost more than $1.4 billion. According to Reuters, more than $400 million dollars worth of property was destroyed in the metro transport as well.

In spite of all the lost lives and damage, the protesters have succeeded in making their demands heard. After a congress meeting last Friday, the government has finally agreed to conduct a nationwide plebiscite in April, to determine if the citizens want a new constitution. 

For many people, this is the end of the dictatorial-era led by Pinochet since 1980. Interior minister Gonzalo Blumel claimed that by drafting a new constitution, citizens will finally have a "leading role" in the government:

"This agreement is the first step, but it is a historic and fundamental first step to start building our new social pact, and in this the citizenry will have a leading role."

Aside from this, the Chilean government also invited the leaders of the protesters to discuss their demands. This is a good sign, according to politics professor Cristobal Bellolio, since it signifies a "political consensus" between the government and the Chilean people.