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Music industry rallies in support of ‘Black Out Tuesday’

Many companies from the music industry have announced they will cease operations tomorrow (Tuesday) as a show of solidarity in response to the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis.

Floyd lost his life last Monday after a white police officer knelt on his neck during an arrest. The now ex-police officer, Derek Chauvin, has been charged with murder.

Large-scale protests broke out in 30-plus cities across the US this weekend in as part of the widespread anger over police killings of black people in the country.

The grassroots campaign ‘Black Out Tuesday’ has been labelled as a “day to disconnect from work and reconnect with our community,” and is now being supported by the likes of Universal Music Group, Warner Music, Sony Music and more.

Columbia Records chairman Ron Perry posted: “We stand together with the black community against all forms of racism, bigotry, and violence. Now, more than ever we must use our voices to speak up and challenge the injustices all around us.”

Under the hashtag #THESHOWMUSTBEPAUSED, a social media image is encouraging people to take “an urgent step of action to provoke accountability and change.”

In addition, Live Nation has released a statement on Instagram said: “There are great injustices impacting our brothers and sisters and we are striving to be part of the solution. We need to stop the racists that are literally killing culture.

“Today Live Nation will show its support by donating to the Equal Justice Initiative. And tomorrow and every day that follows we will continue to stand with the black community.”

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The First Avenue venue in Minneapolis, the city where Floyd lost his life, posted a statement calling for volunteers and donations to help heal and rebuild its community.

The message read: “Twin Cities we know and love is SHOWING UP today with massive community clean-up effort, food and supply donations, and continued rallies for Justice for George Floyd. If you can’t make it to clean or donate supplies please make a donation.”

Hundreds more from the industry have spoke out in support of the initiative and will be closing tomorrow in solidarity with the movement.

Image: Lorie Shaull