Rak-Su have opened up about the racist treatment they have received in the UK and have commented on the treatment of people of colour by police in America.
The X Factor winning boy band consists of Ashley Fongho, 27, Jamaal Shurland, 28, Myles Stephenson, 28, and Mustafa Rahimtulla, 29, and were formed in Watford.
The lads say they have been subjected to vile racist treatment over the years – both by thugs on the streets and by trolls online.
Speaking out about their experiences, the band hope to raise awareness about racism while America is experiencing protests and riots following the death of George Floyd, who died after a police officer knelt on his neck for almost nine minutes last week.
Singer Myles told The Sun on Sunday: “We’ve experienced racism in the past. We were chased as teenagers by men in cars in Watford. They were trying to run us over.
“I’ve also had racism directed at me online.”
Discussing the scenes that have unfolded in the USA following the death of George Floyd – who is the latest in a disappointingly growing line of unarmed African Americans who have died at the hands of police in America – the group hope their British accents could help protect them from racist treatment by authorities in the USA.
Myles said: “I’d like to think when we go to America our English accents would make these police officers question what they do before they act.”
While bandmate Ashley said it is important to speak up to highlight racism the world over.
He said: “A lot has got to change and we want to do whatever we can to raise awareness.”
America has erupted with violent protests after George Floyd died aged 46 on Tuesday 26 May 2020 in Minneapolis after policeman Derek Chauvin pinned him down with a knee on his neck while trying to make an arrest.
Derek was subsequently fired from the Minneapolis Police Department and charged with murder – but is currently out on bail.
Protest have taken place in cities in 23 States across the USA, with police guarding the White House in Washington, DC, and Los Angeles announcing a curfew on Saturday night following days and nights of unrest.
President Trump dispatched National Guard soldiers on Saturday after violent scenes saw buildings torched during five straight days of protests.
While Police in New York City sparked outrage on Saturday when passersby filmed SUV's driven by cops plough into protesters in the street.
