After George Floyd's death, people around the world protest against police violence, social inequality and racism. Many stars have already joined the protests or pledged their support via social media to the "Black Lives Matter" movement – including Paul McCartney (77, "Let It Be"). With a emotional statement on Twitter he demands a rethink and reports of a terrifying experience during his Beatles period.
"As we see protests and demonstrations around the world, I know that many of us want to know what they can do to help," McCartney begins his post. "There is no quick fix, but we need change," it continues. All people would have to work together "to overcome racism in any form". We would have to "learn more, listen more, talk more, educate ourselves and above all act."
McCartney also remembers his Beatles days. "In 1964 the Beatles were supposed to play in Jacksonville, USA," explains the musician. However, when the band found out that only white people should be present, they refused to perform. "It felt wrong. We said: 'We won't do that!'". In the end, they prevailed and played in front of a white and black audience. "We then made sure that this was recorded in our contract. It was common sense for us."
"Saying nothing is not an option"
Unfortunately, according to the musician, little has happened since then. "I feel bad and angry that we are here almost 60 years later and the world is shocked by the horrific scenes of the senseless murder of George Floyd by police racism." The world star says combative that he wants justice "for the family of George Floyd and for all those who died and had to suffer". "Saying nothing is not an option."
African American George Floyd died after a police operation in Minneapolis. A white policeman pressed his knee back for several minutes. Floyd had complained several times that he couldn't breathe.