Alexandre Schneider/Getty Images for NetflixMy Chemical Romance frontman Gerard Way has shared his support for the Black Lives Matter movement and the ongoing protests against racism and police brutality.
In an Instagram post, Way acknowledges the privilege he has in taking to time to formulate his thoughts, a privilege not extended to all people.
“There is not much time to think, surely not days, when the knee is on your neck,” he writes. “When the bullets penetrate, or the tear gas finds its mark. When generations of enabled systematic oppression, and its guardians, work against you. When opportunities are not afforded to you because of who you were born to be.”
Way writes that he’s “always considered [himself] empathetic,” but he will “never begin to know the pain” the black community knows.
“I could never feel the pain you feel,” Way writes. “And I am so deeply sorry things have not changed.”
“I cannot begin to understand your experience, but what I can do is stand by you,” he continues. “Continue the internal discussions we are having about ways to affect change in non-performative ways. Meaningful ways beyond this moment, beyond this gesture.”
Way promises that he’ll “open [his] heart to receive what you have to give.”
“In doing so, I know I will never be able to fully understand it the way you do, and surely not experience it,” Way writes.
“[I’m] grateful for your kindness, your honesty, and the knowledge you have shared that I will further educate myself with,” he concludes. “I am, and will remain, inspired by your rage.”
Way also adds a link to the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund.
By Josh Johnson
Copyright © 2020, ABC Audio. All rights reserved.
