Logic's VMA Performance Features Powerful Suicide Prevention Message

Every year, the MTV Video Music Awards has a few unexpected moments. This year, to our pleasant surprise, one of those moments featured suicide awareness.

On Sunday, when Logic performed his powerful song “1-800-273-8255,” featuring Alessia Cara and Khalid, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline took center stage — on the shirts of suicide survivors. 

I want you to be alive, you don’t gotta die today. #Logic #18002738255 #AlessiaCara #Khalid #VMAS pic.twitter.com/fT6FlUAoYS

— B96 (@B96Chicago) August 28, 2017

Near the end of his performance, Logic added an equally powerful statement:

I just want to take a moment right now and thank you all so much for giving me a platform to talk about something that mainstream media doesn’t want to talk about. Mental health, anxiety, suicide, depression and so much more that I talk about on this album. From racism, discrimination, sexism, domestic violence, sexual assault and so much more. I don’t give a damn if you’re black, white or any color in between. I don’t care if you’re Christian, you’re Muslim, you’re gay, you’re straight, I am gonna fight for your equality because I believe that we are all born equal, but we are not treated equally and that is why we must fight. We must fight for the equality of every man, woman and child regardless of race, religion, color, creed and sexual orientation. So I say here and now if you believe in this message and my message of peace, love and positivity and equality for all, then I demand that you rise to your feet and applaud not only for yourselves but for the foundation we are laying for our children.

I will always remember this powerful #VMA performance by @Logic301 @thegreatkhalid and @alessiacara. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/RB2RnT97Dk

— MTV (@MTV) August 28, 2017

It’s not every day you see suicide prevention awareness on live TV.

If you or someone you know needs help, visit our suicide prevention resources page.

If you need support right now, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, the Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386 or text “HOME” to 741-741. Head here for a list of crisis centers around the world.

If you or a loved one is affected by sexual abuse or assault and need help, call the National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 to be connected with a trained staff member from a sexual assault service provider in your area.