Celine Dion, like many, is still in shock over the worst mass shooting in U.S. history and her own words reveal more than a little confusion on the singer’s behalf. Still, she chose to go on with her scheduled Las Vegas concert, turning the event into a benefit for the victims and families of the victims of the shooting. In sharing this decision with her fans, Ms. Dion sent a message of solidarity and support.
In the Face of Tragedy, Celine Dion Stands Strong
Instead of jumping right into her first song of the night, Celine Dion walked out on stage for her residency concert at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace on Tuesday night to speak with her audience. It isn’t something Ms. Dion does often, if ever, but she felt it was necessary. She wanted her fans to understand why she didn’t cancel her appearance, just two nights after the mass shooting, and she wanted to thank those fans attending the concert.
As Celine pointed out, the idea of enjoying a concert, either as fan or as performer, so soon after a tragedy seemed questionable, until she saw an opportunity to use it to help others. She told her fans that continuing with the concert was the right thing to do. She felt it was an opportunity to show support for those who endured the shooting earlier in the week.
The concert wasn’t just dedicated to victims of the shooting, but also to the heroes. Celine acknowledged first responders, police officers, firemen, rescue personnel, and anyone who had been willing to come to the aid of those in need. In recognizing both heroes and victims, Ms. Dion united her audience together as one symbol of strength and courage.
“I want you to know that the proceeds for tonight’s show are being donated to the victims’ families on your behalf,” Ms. Dion announced during her speech.
Celine Dion added that the survivors of the massacre and the families of those who had been killed by 64-year-old Stephen Paddock are going to need help to move forward. She said they would all need love and emotional support, as well as financial assistance, in overcoming the devastation wrought by this tragedy. For that reason, Ms. Dion felt it was important to make a prompt and public show of support for those in need. The show of compassion for the victims is just the beginning, as lawmakers and celebrities push for faster change to avoid further gun violence in the United States.
