Adam "Nergal" Darski, the frontman of Polish blackened death metal band Behemoth, has publicly criticized the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) for declining the band's charitable initiative.
The controversial rejection has sparked a heated debate in the music community and raised questions about the criteria for assessing charitable partnerships.
Nergal, known for his outspoken and unapologetic personality, took to social media to express his frustration and disappointment with UNICEF's decision.
The band had approached the renowned humanitarian organization with a proposal to collaborate on a charitable campaign to provide aid to children in need worldwide.
Despite Behemoth's immense popularity and extensive fan base, Nergal claims that UNICEF rejected their proposal without providing concrete reasons.
The musician accused the organization of being close-minded and biased against the metal genre, suggesting their rejection was based on preconceived notions about the band's image and music.
"Sooo about our charity action and giving the income form the teddies to UNICEF, UNICEF Polska." Nergal said. "I wanted to do so and participate in their “company with a heart” action. Attached is the answer which I just got."
The metalhead translated the email: “Thank you very much for your interest in our organization and your willingness to join the "Company with Heart" program.
According to its regulations, each entity applying for participation in the program is subject to verification in terms of potential risks related to establishing cooperation.
Unfortunately, we would like to inform you that due to the nature of the messages accompanying the products you sell, we cannot qualify you for participation in this particular Program.”
Shame on you, UNICEF and UNICEF Polska. I am totally speechless. Do you REALLY want to help the kids out there? Thankfully, there are some other foundations which will accept the money for children. Legions, can you suggest any?"