clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

Obama speaks out against rape in Grammy video

Obama appeared in a spot at the Grammys to speak out against sexual assault
Obama appeared in a spot at the Grammys to speak out against sexual assault
Getty

President Obama appeared in a short video during the 57th Grammy Awards on Sunday night to speak out against sexual assault.

"It's not okay — and it has to stop," Obama said.

According to the Washington Post, the public service announcement is the latest installment in the White House's "It's On Us" campaign, which is fighting to end sexual assault on college campuses.

In the video, Obama asks the artists at the Grammys to ask their fans to take the "It's On Us" pledge and vow to help end sexual assault.

At the end of the spot, President Obama says, "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."

After President Obama's spot, activist Brooke Axtell told the story of her experience with domestic violence on the stage in a written-word performance. "Authentic love does not devalue a human being. Authentic love does not silence, or shame or abuse," Axtell said. "Your voice will save you. ... Let it set you free to know who you really are."

Her speech was followed by a performance of "By the Grace of God" by Katy Perry.