“There is a genocide happening before our eyes” – Singer Shawn Mendes speaks out on Gaza

Canadian singer Shawn Mendes has spoken out about the situation in Gaza, calling for an end to the violence against Palestinians and urging fellow artists to use their platforms to support those affected.

In a statement shared on Instagram on Thursday, November 12, the singer opened with the words “Free Palestine” before saying the suffering of children and families in the region had gone on for too long.

“There is a genocide happening before our eyes. The senseless killing in Gaza must stop. The children and families in Palestine have suffered for far too long, and they need our help,” he wrote.

Mendes said he had been educating himself about the situation and encouraged people to support organisations including the Palestine Children's Relief Fund, Watermelon Pictures and the Woven Futures Fund.

Addressing fellow artists, he acknowledged that speaking out could be frightening but urged them to find the courage to use their voices to support Palestinians.

“The more of us that use our voice, the closer we are to change,” he added, calling for greater support for people suffering in Gaza.