Beyoncé and Selena Gomez were among the stars who shared heartfelt messages on video during Tuesday’s Hand in Hand: A Benefit for Hurricane Relief.
“During a time where it's impossible to watch the news without seeing violence or racism in this country, just when you think it couldn't possibly get worse, natural disasters take precious life, do massive damage and forever change lives, leaving behind contaminated water, flooded hospitals, schools and nursing homes," said Beyoncé, who hails from Texas.
“Natural disasters don't discriminate. They don't see if you're an immigrant, black or white, Hispanic or Asian, Jewish or Muslim, wealthy or poor … we’re all in this together.
“Seeing everyone of different racial, social and religious backgrounds put their own lives at risk to help each other survive, restored my faith in humanity.”
Gomez was visibly emotional in her pre-recorded message, in which she talked about the Saldivar family’s attempt to escape rising flood waters.
“Their van is swept into the bayou. Only Sammy Saldivar manages to survive," Gomez recounted.
“I come from Grand Prairie, about 250 miles away from the Saldivar's home. Their story affected all who heard it and no matter who we are, the differences we have suddenly did not seem to matter. Since that day, we are joined together. Neighbour helping neighbour, without stopping to think about race, religion or anything else.
“If we are going to get through all the storms that confront us that's how we’re going to do it together — hand in hand.”
The prime-time telethon, which raised more than $15 million U.S., also featured a message from Drake and a live appearance by Justin Bieber.
Original articles at iHeartRadio