Ariana Grande on Manchester attack: “We won’t let hate win”

In the wake of the terrorist attack that claimed 22 lives and left 59 people injured at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester on May 22nd, the pop star understandably only posted only a brief, shocked reaction: “broken. from the bottom of my heart, i am so so sorry. i don’t have words.” Now, Grande has shared a full, complete statement to Twitter.

“My heart, prayers, and deepest condolences are with the victims of the Manchester Attack and their loved ones,” the statement begins. “There is nothing I or anyone can do to take away the pain you are feeling or to make this better. However, I extend my hand and heart and everything I possibly can give to you and yours, should you want or need my help in any way.”

Grande continues: “We won’t let this divide us. We won’t let hate win… Our response to this violence must be to come closer together, to help each other, to love more, to sing louder and to live more kindly and generously than we did before.”

Grande followed up the statement, which can be read in full below, with a crowdfunding link where people can donate to support the families of the victims of the attack. Grande also notes that she plans to return to Manchester and perform a benefit concert to raise money for those affected by the tragedy.

So far, the Greater Manchester Police have arrested eight individuals in connection with the attack as part of their ongoing investigation. Grande has suspended her tour through until June 5th.

Here’s the statement, in full: