Alicia Keys is doing her part to help injured teen Ralph Yarl feel seen. The “No One” singer has invited Yarl to her July concert date in Kansas. According to the boy’s attorney Lee Merritt, Keys has said that she would love to meet him at the show, as well. The singer’s offer was extended as part of a huge wave of support for the teen in recent weeks. In addition to Alicia Keys’ offer, TMZ says Roc Nation has even reached out and offered to support in any way they can.
For those unfamiliar, Ralph Yarl is a black 16-year-old who was shot several weeks ago by an elderly white homeowner. The assailant, Andrew Lester, is 86 years old. He is accused of shooting Yarl in the head and arm after the teen rang the man’s doorbell. Ralph went to the wrong address while attempting to pick up his siblings, according to the police and Ralph’s family. The homeowner allegedly shot the teenager through a locked glass door without exchanging words because he believed the teenager was attempting to break in and was “scared to death” by the boy’s size. Luckily for Yarl, this is one instance where there may be a happy outcome. He is on his way to recovery and seems to be fully functioning, despite being shot in the head.
Alicia Keys’ Promotes Activism And Awareness
(Photo by Noam Galai/WireImage)
Alicia Keys is no stranger to activism or giving a platform to the voiceless. She is a supporter of many charities, including foundations fighting against AIDS and promoting awareness of the need for change. It’s no surprise that the famed singer would reach out to Ralph Yarl. Keys’ charity work, while well known, may come as a shock to some. Though she gives to more than 30 charities and speaks out on many issues, she is often in the headlines for her lavish celebrity lifestyle. However, Alicia Keys’ is one celebrity who really puts her money where her mouth is.
In addition to giving to charity, Keys often speaks out through art and other means. She was recently featured on Janelle Monaé’s “Say Her Name,” a 17-minute song bringing awareness to the unlawful and unnecessary murders of black women like Sandra Bland and Breonna Taylor. The song also features the likes of Beyoncé, Tierra Whack, and Chloe Bailey. Thankfully, this instance of unnecessary violence against black youth may lead to both justice and a happy ending for Yarl. Additionally, with people like Alicia Keys and labels like Roc Nation supporting him, Yarl might have an even brighter future ahead than he could have imagined. What do you think of Alicia Keys’ offer? Let us know in the comments!
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