Overview

• Jewel performed at the 'Make America Healthy Again' inaugural ball honoring Robert F. Kennedy Jr., President Trump's nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services.
• The singer emphasized her commitment to mental health advocacy, stating she sees the issue as transcending political divides and requiring immediate action.
• She apologized to fans, particularly those in the LGBTQIA+ community, for any pain caused by her participation, calling them 'treasures' and pledging to continue fighting for change.
• Jewel defended her decision, stating that activism requires engaging with imperfect systems and people to drive progress on critical issues like mental health.
• The backlash followed broader criticism of the Trump administration's policies, including controversial stances on LGBTQIA+ rights and mental health care approaches.