Fifth Harmony member Normani Kordei announced on Sunday that she will be taking a break from Twitter after facing a stream of racist abuse.
In an open letter she posted on Twitter yesterday, the singer wrote: "I've been racially cyber bullied with tweets and pictures so horrific and racially charged that I can't subject myself any longer to hate."
Normani added, "I'm not the first black female celebrity to deal with this and I'm sure I won't be the last." Ghostbusters star Leslie Jones took a hiatus from Twitter last month after she was targeted by racists.
another black female celebrity driven off @twitter because the platform won't address harassment https://t.co/MY5EclLfB2
Its a shame that black female celebrities go through this mess. People really want to bring us down so bad😔 https://t.co/Yt8Nexi3Wg
Normani thanked Twitter in her letter for "immediately jumping into action when they were alerted to the situation".
The social network has been trying to be more proactive in dealing with racism on its platform. Recently, it permanently suspended the conservative writer Milo Yiannopoulos as a result of the racist and demeaning tweets that Jones received.
Her bandmates have all tweeted supportive messages towards Normani. "I won't tolerate on my timeline any kind of hate, racism, or discrimination towards anyone," said Camila Cabello.
i stand by the words "love only", meaning I won't tolerate on my timeline any kind of hate, racism, or discrimination towards ANYONE. period
Since she announced her departure, two hashtags – #IStandWithNormani and #WeLoveYouNormani – were filled with supportive messages for the singer.
A Godiva chocolate glistening goddess! This black beauty deserves none of the hate she's getting. #WeLoveYouNormani
She's an absolutely beautiful human being. Stop the racism and horrible comments against her. #WeLoveYouNormani
"Keep on smiling," one user said.
#IStandWithNormani Keep on smiling💕
#IStandWithNormani #WeLoveYouNormani One of the most talented, well-spoken, intelligent, BEAUTIFUL girls I know.
Another user shared a video from a Fifth Harmony concert where fans held "black is beautiful" posters. ❤️
this is so beautiful #BlackIsBeautiful #WeLoveYouNormani
Keep on shining, Normani. <3
