The notoriously outspoken music artist, Kanye West, has been uncharacteristically silent since Black Lives Matter protests were once again initiated by the unlawful killing of a black man at the hands of law enforcement. West has not yet spoken out publicly, but he certainly has acted; a representative of West announced that he has donated $2 million so far to the movement.
Following the killing of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police officer, Derek Chauvin, many of the largest Black Lives Matter protests ensued since the movement began, taking place not only across the United States, but globally, fighting systemic racism.
Many feared that any public statements from Kanye West would discourage the movement due to his past endorsement of Donald Trump. West has still not confirmed whether or not he is still in support of Trump, but his actions have caused many to speculate that he has since changed his political opinions.
Of West’s $2 million donation, funds will benefit victims of police brutality, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and George Floyd. A representative of West stated that the donation is aimed at supporting the victims families, specifically, their legal costs. West’s donation also included a college fund to cover tuition for George Floyd’s 6-year-old daughter, Gianna. West has even pledged to provide support to Black owned businesses in Chicago, where he is from.
Wife of Kanye West, Kim Kardashian West has also lent her platform to the Black Lives Matter movement by disclosing her donations as well as recommending organizations for her followers to donate to.
Kardashian West Tweeted on behalf of her shape wear brand, SKIMS, “We stand in solidarity with the fight against systemic racism and are committed to supporting and participating in the shift that needs to take place.”
The West’s donations follow other notable contributors such as The Weeknd, Drake and Jay-Z.
Following West’s donation announcement, he took to the streets to march alongside other Black Lives Matter protesters on the south side of Chicago.
Photo Source: GQ
