Gabrielle Union got a huge boost from a major television star after reports came out about how she was treated during her time as a judge on America’s Got Talent.
Grey’s Anatomy star Ellen Pompeo not only stood up for Union but applauded her, and called out Union’s former bosses at NBC on Twitter, “It’s unfortunate that @nbc the same network that protected disgusting men like Matt Lauer and punished women for speaking out or not putting up with it…has not changed their practices or culture.” The veteran actress continued, “I support @itsgabrielleu commitment to speaking up to injustice. It takes courage.”
It’s unfortunate that @nbc the same network that protected disgusting men like Matt Lauer and punished women for speaking out or not putting up with it…has not changed their practices or culture. I support @itsgabrielleu commitment to speaking up to injustice. It takes courage
— Ellen Pompeo (@EllenPompeo) November 28, 2019
But Pompeo wasn’t done yet. She also encouraged other white actresses to speak out when they see injustice occurring, “this is a teaching moment..It’s important..white girls I’m talking to you..whether you truly understand what racial injustice is or not..that you stand with your sisters on the front lines. Don’t cut side deals & don’t not get involved because it isn’t your issue..because it is”
this is a teaching moment..It’s important..white girls I’m talking to you..whether you truly understand what racial injustice is or not..that you stand with your sisters on the front lines. Don’t cut side deals & don’t not get involved because it isn’t your issue..because it is
— Ellen Pompeo (@EllenPompeo) November 28, 2019
Pompeo is one of the few white actresses who has the power to speak up. Her series has been on the air for almost 20 years, and she is one of the highest-paid actresses on TV, so she can afford to put her neck on the line.
Pompeo is also one of the few people in Hollywood, black or white, to come out and support Union.
Union seemed to appreciate the support although she hasn’t thanked Pompeo directly yet, “So many tears, so much gratitude. THANK YOU! Just when you feel lost, adrift, alone… you got me up off the ground. Humbled and thankful, forever ❤”
