F1 driver Lewis Hamilton is deeply upset by the events unfolding in the US after the unfortunate death of George Floyd at the hands of a police officer.
Hamilton as the sport’s first black driver later said he was overcome at rage and called out other F1 drivers and teams who were all silent in the aftermath of the protests.
“I see those of you who are staying silent, some of you the biggest stars yet you stay silent in the midst of injustice.”
The 35-year-old in a lengthy Instagram story 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 color 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. …
I do not stand with those looting and burning buildings but those who are protesting peacefully. There can be no peace until our so-called leaders make change. This is not just America, this is the U.K., 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.
— Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) June 2, 2020
The six-time world champion also took to Twitter to pay tribute to his dad on his birthdaycwho he says is the reason behind his success.
I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge my dad, a strong and successful black man. Because of him, both @nicolashamilton and I have careers, strong mindedness and determination. He has always been my hero. Happy 60th Birthday dad #blackexcellence #happybirthday pic.twitter.com/CHBnbq0TjG
— Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) May 31, 2020
“It took hundreds of thousands of people’s complaints and buildings to burn before officials reacted and decided to arrest Derek Chauvin for murder – and that is sad,” he said.
“Unfortunately, America is not the only place where racism lives and we continue to fail as humans when we cannot stand up for what is right.
“Please do not sit in silence, no matter the colour of your skin. Black Lives Matter.”
— Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) June 2, 2020
Shortly after Hamilton issued his post, F1 and his team, Mercedes made its first statement on the matter.
“We stand with you, and all people in the fight against racism,” it said.
“It is an evil that no sport or society is truly immune from. And it is only together we can oppose an eradicate it.
“Together we are stronger.”
— Mercedes-AMG F1 (@MercedesAMGF1) June 1, 2020
Soon after the British driver’s statements, other F1 drivers have started sharing their posts in solidarity with the movement as well.
#BLACKLIVESMATTER
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— Charles Leclerc (@Charles_Leclerc) May 31, 2020
I still struggle to find the words to describe the atrocity of some videos I've seen on Internet.
Racism needs to be met with actions, not silence. Please be actively participating, engaging and encouraging others to spread awareness. 2/3— Charles Leclerc (@Charles_Leclerc) May 31, 2020
It is our responsabilities to speak out against injustice. Don't be silent.
I stand #BlackLivesMatters. 3/3— Charles Leclerc (@Charles_Leclerc) May 31, 2020
