Jewel's Statement on Performing at Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Inaugural Ball
In a video posted to Instagram, singer-songwriter Jewel addressed concerns raised by fans following her surprise performance at Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s "Make America Healthy Again" Inaugural Ball.
Jewel apologized, particularly to her LGBTQIA+ fans, explaining that her appearance was motivated by her activism around mental health initiatives. She had previously engaged with the Biden administration and discussed the mental health crisis in America.
"If I believe I can help, I have to try," Jewel stated. "I don't believe that's how activism works, waiting until everything's perfect enough to participate. We have to find ways to engage and act now."
While acknowledging that she may not align with all the policies of those who can assist her cause, Jewel emphasized her willingness to engage with them to make a difference.
"I understand that my words were overly simplistic... Half of our country feels hope right now, and I honor that," she said. "But the other half feels disenfranchised and scared, and that is unacceptable."
Jewel expressed particular remorse to the LGBTQIA+ community, acknowledging their pain. "You make the world a better place. You've made my life a better place," she said. "I will not stop fighting... It's not by isolating. It's by being in relationship."
Jewel concluded by expressing her sorrow for disappointing fans and reaffirming her commitment to spreading positivity. "I want to be a ray of light in this world... I will wake up again tomorrow and try again," she said.