Six-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton says the ongoing protests around the death of George Floyd have brought back "vivid memories" of the racism he has faced through his life.
Floyd, who was black, died last week in Minneapolis after Derek Chauvin, a white police officer, kneeled on his neck for more than eight minutes. Chauvin, who was fired on Tuesday, was charged Friday with third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter. Three others have been charged with aiding and abetting second-degree murder.
Hamilton is F1's only black driver and is the second most successful driver of the sport's history, behind only Michael Schumacher in race wins and world championships. Last week, Hamilton called out what he called the "white dominated" sport of F1 for its silence over the issue.
Hamilton's statement was followed by a group of his fellow drivers publicly speaking out against the issue. On Friday he elaborated on his experiences with racism.
"I've been reading every day to try to stay on top of everything that's been happening in our fight against racism, and it's brought back so many painful memories from my childhood," he wrote. "Vivid memories of the challenges I faced when I was a kid, as I'm sure many of you who have experienced racism or some sort of discrimination have faced.
"I have spoken so little about my personal experiences because I was taught to keep it in, don't show weakness, kill them with love and beat them on the track. But when it was away from the track, I was bullied, beaten and the only way I could fight this was to learn to defend myself, so I went to karate. The negative psychological effects cannot be measured.
"This is why I drive the way I do, it is far deeper than just doing a sport, I'm still fighting. Thank God I had my father, a strong black figure who I could look up to, that I knew understood and would stand by my side no matter what. Not all of us have that but we need to stand together with those who may not have that hero to lean on and protect them. We must unite!"
Hamilton thinks the movement Floyd's death has stirred could be a significant moment in world history.
"I have wondered why 2020 seemed so doomed from the start but I'm starting to believe that 2020 may just be the most important year of our lives, where we can finally start to change the systemic and social oppression of minorities.
"We just want to live, have the same chances at education, at life and not have to fear walking down the street, or going to school, or walking into a store whatever it may be. We deserve this as much as anyone. Equality is paramount to our future, we cannot stop fighting this fight, I for one, will never give up!"