Fantasia Barrino Apologizes for “All Lives Matter” Concert

But the scheduling wasn’t the only problem. The singer promoted the concert on twitter with the sub-headline “All Lives Matter” and a backlash on social media began. “All Lives Matter” is a tag some white folks use to dismiss the “Black Lives Matter” movement that came in the wake of African American deaths at the hands of the police. All lives matter goes without saying, right?

In a video Fantasia posted to social media, announcing the concert cancellation, the singer attempted to explain the motivation behind holding the concert. In a longer video, her husband, Kendall Taylor, defended their use of the phrase “All Lives Matter” to promote the concert. It was something about having mixed race grandchildren and having white people working for him. It wasn’t very convincing.

And on Thursday, Fantasia posted another apology to social media.

A photo posted by Fantasia? (@tasiasword) on Sep 28, 2016 at 2:05pm PDT

And here’s an emotional Instagram post announcing the concert. Oh boy. I think their hearts are in the right place, but neither seem tuned into the movement that apparently inspired them.

Brothers & Sisters, Our hearts are heavy, our emotions are on high, and our peace of mind and security have been compromised by these recent events. We know it’s time for change, we know this can’t continue, we know that we must ACT, but we are not sure as to how we proceed and ensure maximum impact is achieved. So on Tomorrow, myself along with other artists, city & community leaders, business men & women, residents, corporate supporters and YOU, we will all gather uptown in hopes that TOGETHER, we will accomplish the most important and critical goal that must come out of this… “Organized Unity!” Separated & apart from each other we are seen as weak and can not command the respect & dignity we deserve. But together… Organized… and on one accord…. All Selflessly moving collectively toward a common goal, we can not fail nor be denied. We will come together in Strength & Love following the Panthers game at a designated location that we will share with you tomorrow. Tonight: be in prayer, let’s examine ourselves first and then determine our level of commitment as this will not be a race, and this is a marathon that was not designed to be ran alone. Other states, cities, mothers & fathers have felt what we are feeling now and every persons talent, Resources, and passion will be required in order to achieve that which we all know is destined to be ours.

A photo posted by Fantasia? (@tasiasword) on Sep 24, 2016 at 7:53pm PDT