We Stand With Gabrielle Union

By: Madalyn McKnight

Terry Crews should really learn that silence is golden. Honestly, truly.

In the wake of serious allegations regarding the treatment of actress, producer, and sports fanatic Gabrielle Union while she served as a judge on NBC’s show America’s Got Talent, she has remained behind the scenes of the rallying cry the world has created on her behalf. Racists and sexist experiences created a toxic work environment for her, in spite of rising ratings while she promoted the show. She bowed out at the end of the last season and since then awful treatment she received has surfaced. Her husband and others though have been vocal about supporting her. She has been focusing on her other work and her family and expressed her gratitude for the support.

While many have stood for her, one person, actor Terry Crews, did not shy away from gaslighting a woman who is firm in herself and her image. I  think it is VERY IMPORTANT to also mention that when Terry Crews recounted a non-consensual sexual encounter at an event, Gabrielle was one the loudest advocates on his behalf. She showed unabashed support and faced challengers head-on.

Now that the tables have turned, Terry not only says that he has not experienced any of the issues Gabrielle did (not a problem) and that basically the environment that was toxic for her, does not exist for him or for that matter, AT ALL (PROBLEM).

He has stood firmly behind his lack of support for her, as he coincidentally continues to be the host of the show. Just one year ago the shoe of public scrutiny was on the other foot and like so many other times, men get amnesia when it comes time to reciprocate support for black women.

Gabrielle, I  am so sorry that you’ve had to endure what you have all while supporting the very project that could have broken your spirit. Thank you for your continued grace in the face of a very difficult challenge. I  know that Terry’s lack of support does not matter because you have an army behind you. We will continue to show love and support because no one deserves to go through what you have. You continue to lift others up high and as sisters, we will do the same with you.

We Stand with you.

*featured image Steve Granitz/WireImage

Madalyn McKnight is a Contributing Writer for the Pedestal Project, LLC. A rare blackbird who has the range and a young black professional with impactful words! Follow her on Instagram and Facebook at @singsongblackbird and twitter @singsongblckbrd