This virus is killing black people': Beyonce asks African Americans to 'protect yourselves' during One World: Together at Home appearance

Beyonce put forth a passionate speech about how COVID-19 has 'severely affected' African American communities during her stint on the One World: Together at Home concert on Saturday.

The 38-year-old singer explained to viewers that African Americans make up a 'disproportionate' part of the essential workforce and 'do not have the luxury of working from home.'

'This virus is killing black people at an alarmingly high rate here in America,' said Knowles. 'Those with preexisting conditions are at an even higher risk.' 

Passionate: Beyonce put forth a passionate speech about how COVID-19 has 'severely affected' African American communities during her stint on the One World: Together at Home concert on Saturday

According to Beyonce, a recent report out of her hometown of Houston, Texas revealed that 57per cent of COVID-19 fatalities within Houston City limits have been of African American descent.

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'Please protect yourselves. We are one family and we need you. We need your voices, your abilities, and your strength all over this world,' urged the Halo singer.

Beyonce then made a broader statement, when she listed out various essential worker roles and expressed her gratitude for their continued service.

'Tonight we celebrate true heroes, those who are making the ultimate sacrifice to keep us all safe, fed and healthy...we continue to pray for your safety.

She continued: 'To those in the food industry, delivery workers, mail carriers, and sanitation employees who are working so we can be safe in our homes, we thank you for your selfless service.' 

In regards to the importance of staying indoors as a means of deterring the spread of the virus, Beyonce empathized with the difficulties of the act, while encouraging viewers to remain strong.  

'I know it is very hard, but please be patient, stay encouraged, keep the faith, stay positive, and continue to pray for our heroes.

'Goodnight and God bless you,' concluded Beyonce, before blowing a kiss to the camera.  

For her prerecorded cameo, the Grammy Award-winning artist sported a chic black Fishermans cap complete with braided leather trim and gold hardware.

Beyonce rocked a ruby red lip that created a nice contrast to her subtle eyeshadow look.

Her signature golden tresses were styled in loose waves that flowed down past her chest. She appeared to be wearing a black blazer with dramatic padded shoulders.