Brooke Axtell joined Katy Perry at the Grammy Awards on Sunday. Katy Perry sang a song called ‘By the Grace of God’ from her most recent album ‘Prism,’ and Brooke Axtell performed a spoken-word piece about domestic violence and sexual assault. Both women took the stage following President Obama’s televised message supporting the cause.
“It’s on us–all of us–to create a culture where violence isn’t tolerated, where survivors are supported, and where all our young people–men and women–can go as far as their talents and their dreams will take them,” the president said.
“Artists have a unique power to change minds and attitudes, and get us thinking and talking about what matters,” he added. “All of us, in our own lives, have the power to set an example.”
Good for you, @katyperry and @survivorhealing. If only this could have happened at the Super Bowl. http://t.co/HgdqBfHPzn
— HuffPost.Ca Living (@HuffPostCaLiv) February 9, 2015
“It’s an honor to collaborate with Katy in this way,” Brooke Axtell said in an interview with People magazine before the Grammys. “She has been very devoted to various aspects of female empowerment.”
Axtell is an Austin, Texas-based activist, a survivor of domestic abuse and sexual assault, and Director of Communications for Allies Against Slavery. Her spoken-word piece detailed her frightening personal experiences with abuse and urged those who may be in abusive relationships to seek the help they so deserve.
Learn more about Brooke Axtell (@Survivorhealing) and @katyperry's emotional #GRAMMYs performance: http://t.co/KRZlAJReff
— The GRAMMYs (@TheGRAMMYs) February 9, 2015
“Authentic love does not devalue a human being,” Brooke Axtell said. “If you’re in a relationship with someone who does not honor and respect you, I want you to know you are worthy of love. Please reach out for help; your voice will save you.”
The most important speech at the #GRAMMYs this year came from Brooke Axtell. pic.twitter.com/l0kmxReeWb
— MUCH (@Much) February 9, 2015
Did you catch this powerful message from both Katy Perry and Brooke Axtell at the Grammy Awards on Sunday? It’s one that everyone who can should get on board with and help promote. There is way too much domestic violence and sexual assault going on–much of it in secret–and word that help is attainable must be spread.