In a time where corporate celebrity sponsorships are at an all-time high, many celebs turn a blind eye to political and social injustices.
But with Baltimore making national headlines for their recent protests against police brutality and the death of Freddie Gray, a 25-year-old man who had his larynx crushed and spinal cord severed while in police custody, a handful of influential artists had the courage to publicly lend their support and prayers to the harborside city.
While Americans watched tactical police stand-off with high school students and the citizens of Baltimore, Rihanna and Vic Mensa were some of the first artists to post about the uprising.
Fed up with police brutality, Vic Mensa tweeted:
https://twitter.com/VicMensa/status/592844753043124224
https://twitter.com/VicMensa/status/592869268246659072
https://twitter.com/VicMensa/status/592869579367546880
https://twitter.com/VicMensa/status/592872138941542400
https://twitter.com/VicMensa/status/592873563872452608
https://twitter.com/VicMensa/status/592890657993302017
Rihanna had a more somber reaction, posting a picture of a Black police officer with tears in his eyes.
Compton rapper YG supported Baltimore protesters on Twitter.
Emcees who constantly support the Black community like David Banner, Killer Mike, and Talib Kweli also spoke out.
https://instagram.com/p/2AK2x5S1GB/
https://instagram.com/p/2BZI43DYjl/
Indiana rapper Freddie Gibbs shared a personal story regarding police brutality on Twitter.
Hip-hop legends like Chuck D and Russell Simmons also lent their support.
Outkast’s Big Boi also chimed in.
We’re sending our thoughts and prayers to Freddie Gray’s family and the people of Baltimore. Rest in power #FreddieGray.
PHOTO CREDIT: GettyImages, Instagram, Twitter
