Lady Gaga to Fund Classroom Needs in Cities Affected by Mass Shootings
Lady Gaga has spoken out about the recent tragic mass shootings in Dayton, El Paso, and Gilroy posting to her Facebook page an emotional message to victims and survivors, announcing that she will “fully fund” school supplies in classrooms in those cities.
“14 classrooms in Dayton, 125 classrooms in El Paso, and 23 classrooms in Gilroy will now have access to the support they need to inspire their students to work together and bring their dreams to life,” Gaga said on August 9 about the partnership between her organization, the Born This Way Foundation, and DonorsChoose.org.
Dayton and El Paso were both affected by mass shootings on August 3, and Gilroy was the site of a mass shooting on July 28.
“My heart goes out to those who were taken from us too soon and to their families, loved ones, and communities who are left to grieve,” the singer said in her Facebook announcement. “Everyone has the right to laws that make them feel safe in their communities. In this moment, I want to channel my confusion, frustration, and fury into hope. Hope that we are there for each other and for ourselves.”
This isn’t the first time Gaga has used her platform to promote charity work and giving back to communities. The star began her Born This Way Foundation in 2012 to support the mental health of young people. She has also been a prominent LGBTQ+ activist, speaking out against homophobic policies such as Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, attending Pride marches, and taking a stand against various Trump administration policies.
In her recent post Gaga also emphasized the importance of mental health for survivors of traumatic events. “If you’re struggling, please be brave and tell a trusted someone,” she said. “Don’t be scared to ask for help, I beg you. If you see a loved one struggling, please be brave and reach out, remind them it’s ok to not be ok, and listen to them. We cannot turn away from ourselves. We cannot turn away from our loved ones. We need each other. Don’t turn away.”
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Originally Appeared on Teen Vogue
