It’s been 10 days since George Floyd was unjustly murdered in Minneapolis and those demanding justice for Floyd and Black lives have been vocal. In fact, as protester’s voices ring through all 50 states and several other countries, it is noticeable who has been eerily silent. Criticism has been directed towards celebrities and businesses with huge platforms, many who choose to take a week of silence before putting out any sort of statement. Rightly so, many people are asking, “Is the refusal to post online is inherently racist?” On the other hand, it seems as though celebrities are disingenuously reposting things via social media so they aren’t called out.

Whatever the case may be, those in support of Black Lives Matter are calling out these individuals and businesses—asking them to either put their money where their mouth is, put those words into actions or to continue being silent. 

Kanye West has been among the several high-list celebrities underfire. But it was recently revealed that Mr. West has silently been donating to charities associate with Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd. Donating $2 million, so far and covering legal costs to both the families of Taylor and Arbery. In addition, Mr. West also made sure Floyd’s family would be taken care of in another way—starting a college fund to cover tuition for Floyd’s daughter, who is 6-years-old. 

It is somewhat of a relief to know that perhaps those with the most money are doing some work behind the scenes work. More than anything, it is heartwarming to hear Gianna Floyd say her dad has changed the world. He did and we know she will too.

There is no official statement regarding the donations, just small details unveiled by a representative of Kanye West. With that being said, please continue to urge those with huge platforms to not use this as a public display of their goodness. Rather continuing uplifting the Black voices who need to be heard. Continue saying their names. Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, George Floyd…and many more.