The American music industry will come to a halt today as record labels take part in 'Black Out Tuesday' in support of the Black Lives Matter movement.
The initiative was started to highlight the tragic and senseless death of 46-year-old African-American George Floyd who died last week at the hands of a white Minneapolis police officer.
In an arrest for the alleged use of fake money, police officer, Derek Chauvin, was caught on video kneeling on Floyd's neck for an extended period of time even though Floyd can be heard repeatedly saying that he is struggling to breathe. Floyd later died in police custody. His death has sparked outrage around the globe, and in the US, protesters have been taking to the streets to speak out against racism and police brutality.
Music industry heavyweights have now added their voices in the form of "Blackout Tuesday." Capitol Records said that in solidarity with their black colleagues they would not be doing any business today.
US label Empire said on Instagram that today was "not a day off" but a day to make sure that the voices of those who have not been heard for so long are now listened to.
Many music companies have shared similar posts on their social media including Sony Music and Warner Records.
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
US TV networks and online streaming services have also pledged their solidarity to the Black Lives Matter movement by also voicing their support on social media.
You can add your voice to the movement by signing the petition below to make sure that there will be justice for George.
https://www.change.org/p/mayor-jacob-frey-justice-for-george-floyd
