Hamilton unhappy with F1 stars ‘’staying silent’’ over racial injustice
The British star took to Instagram to write about his frustrations about the lack of support from the F1 paddock after the murder of black man George Floyd in America last week.
Following the death of black man George Floyd last week – who was murdered by a police officer – the topic of racism has become the central topic across America and the world once again.
Lewis Hamilton, F1’s first and only black driver in the 70-year history of the sport has written several posts over the last few days on the matter – but yesterday he called out his industry for staying silent on what’s been happening over the last few days in the United States.
Hamilton said: “I see those of you who are staying silent, some of you the biggest stars yet you stay silent in the midst of injustice. Not a sign from anybody in my industry which of course is a white dominated sport. I’m one of the only people of colour there yet I stand alone.
“I would have thought by now you would see why this happens and say something about it but you can’t stand alongside us. Just know I know who you are and I see you.”
He later added: ‘’I do not stand with those looting and burning buildings but those who are protesting peacefully.’’
“This is not just America, this is the UK, this is Spain, this is Italy and all over. The way minorities are treated has to change, how you educate those in your country of equality, racism, classism, and that we are all the same.
“We are not born with racism and hate in our hearts, it is taught by those we look up to.”
Following Hamilton’s comments yesterday, several drivers have spoken up about it.
Charles Leclerc wrote on Twitter: "#BlackLivesMatter. To be completely honest, I felt out of place and uncomfortable sharing my thoughts on social media about the whole situation and this is why I haven't expressed myself earlier than today.
And I was completely wrong. I still struggle to find the words to describe the atrocity of some videos I've seen on the internet.
"Racism needs to be met with actions, not silence. Please by actively participating, engaging and encouraging others to spread awareness. It is our responsibility to speak out against injustice. Don't remain silent. I stand. #BlackLivesMatter."
#BLACKLIVESMATTER
— Charles Leclerc (@Charles_Leclerc) May 31, 2020
To be completly honest, I felt out of place and uncomfortable sharing my thoughts on social media about the whole situation and this is why I haven't express myself earlier than today.
And I was completely wrong. 1/3
I still struggle to find the words to describe the atrocity of some videos I've seen on Internet.
— Charles Leclerc (@Charles_Leclerc) May 31, 2020
Racism needs to be met with actions, not silence. Please be actively participating, engaging and encouraging others to spread awareness. 2/3
It is our responsabilities to speak out against injustice. Don't be silent.
— Charles Leclerc (@Charles_Leclerc) May 31, 2020
I stand #BlackLivesMatters. 3/3
George Russell had this to say: "We all have a voice to speak up for what's right – and until now I didn't know how to use mine in this situation.’’
"To echo Charles’ words, I just felt out of place sharing my thoughts on these atrocities publicly.
"I struggle to comprehend what I'm seeing in the news and on social media right now - and honestly, I still can't find the words to express how it makes me feel. But ultimately, no matter how uncomfortable it may be to speak out, silence achieves nothing.
"It's time we all stand together and kick racism out of our societies for good. Use your voice, spread awareness as far as you can. We're all responsible for ending the injustice."
Now more than ever, we need peace and equality in this world. It’s time we all stand together and kick racism out of our societies for good. Use your voice, spread awareness as far as you can. We’re all responsible for ending the injustice. [3/3] #BlackLivesMatter
— George Russell (@GeorgeRussell63) June 1, 2020
Lando Norris, Carlos Sainz, Alex Albon and Antonio Giovinazzi also took to social media to express their support and thoughts.
I have fans and followers. Support and love. And I have power through this to lead and inspire so many. But we also stand for what’s right. This time I ask you to do something and take action. Click the link and make a difference... #blacklivesmatter https://t.co/IrVrgU2JBA pic.twitter.com/ee2A0goz84
— Lando Norris (@LandoNorris) June 1, 2020
— Carlos Sainz (@Carlossainz55) June 1, 2020
