“The last thing Manchester needs in their time of loss is to hear what privileged Americans have to say about how they conduct their affairs.”
As the world began to process the terrorist attack on an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester, UK, social media users poured their hearts out. Many expressed sorrow and solidarity with the people of Manchester. Some used the situation to push a political agenda. Then there’s Katy Perry. Fresh off her latest controversy over remarks she made about entertainer Britney Spears’ mental health, Perry once again decided to put her foot in her mouth.
Speaking with radio host Elvis Duran, the singer said, “I think the greatest thing we can do is just unite and love on each other. No barriers, no borders, we all just need to co-exist.” She went on to talk about how she shares a fan base with Ariana Grande. Apparently, this qualifies her to speak on behalf of both fan bases and insist that everyone simply sit around the campfire roasting marshmallows. It’s one of those cringe worthy moments in media that invokes rage from those who have actually dealt with terrorists.
It’s always celebrities who have the answers to world peace. From appearing on radio shows to pulling out the latest smart phone to type 140 characters on what foreign policy is. Katy Perry famously campaigned for Hillary Clinton’s failed run at the presidency. She is also one of the leading celebrity women supporting the “resistance,” having participated in a woman’s march in protest of President Donald Trump. A millionaire encouraging women to skip work to be angry for an entire day.
While I have seen both sides of the aisle turn this tragedy into an argument for their cause, I’m tired of the argument that all we need is love. This is one of the most ridiculous notions mostly spouted off by celebrities from their mansions. It’s undoubtedly easy to call on open borders when you’re an international pop star surrounded by security. The callous remarks come as authorities continue to investigate the attack in Manchester and parents mourn the loss of their children. Loved ones are still missing as families wait in agony for word on their fate. But according to Katy Perry, they should just go love on each other. They should go sit somewhere and co-exist. She hasn’t considered how traumatized many people will remain for the rest of their lives. The mental health issues they will battle as a result of this cowardly attack. The 8-year-old girl who was killed. None of these things seem to be factors.
Maybe Katy Perry should donate some of her time—or even millions—to families of victims and surviving concertgoers before she opens her mouth. The last thing Manchester needs in their time of loss is to hear what privileged Americans have to say about how they conduct their affairs. Were terrorist attacks occurring with as much frequency in the United States as they are in Europe, I wonder how many of these celebrities would continue singing the same tune.
