In a striking act of compassion ana solidarity, legendary rock star Mick Jagger has
donated $180,000 to honor the memory of Iryna Zarutska, the 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee whose tragic death in Charlotte, North Carolina, has deeply
moved communities across the United States. The donation, annovnced Friday
through Jagger’s official foundation, will establish the Iryna Zarutska Memorial Fund, dedicated to supporting refugee education and public safety initiatives.

Mick Jagger, best known as the iconic frontman of The Rolling Stones, has long
been a global cultural figure. His latest gesture of generosity marks a meaningful
intersection between music, activism, and humanitarianism, vnderscoring the urgent need to protect and empower vulnerable refugee populations.

A Message from Mick Jagger

In a heartielt statement accompanying the annouvncement, Jagger expressed his
sorrow and resolve:

‘lryna’s story is heartbreaking — a young woman who fled war, seeking safety
and a fresh start, only to face unimaginable violence. No one should have to
endure that. | hope this donation can help create a safer, kinder world for
others like her”

The rock legend emphasized that his support goes beyond charity; it’s a call for
collective responsibility to ensure that refugees and immigrants can live without
fear and pursue their dreams.

Who Was Iryna Zarutska?

Iryna Zarutska escaped the horrors of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022,
arriving in Charlotte with hopes of building a peaceful life. Working at a local
pizzeria while attending English classes, she aspired to become a veterinary
assistant—a dream tragically cut short on the night of September 10, 2025.

While riding the Charlotte light rail after work, Iryna was stabbed in a brutal and
unprovoked attack by a stranger. The assailant, a man with a criminal history, was
quickly apprehended. Her untimely death sparked national outrage and became a
poignant symbol of the dangers faced by refugees even after reaching safety.

The Iryna Zarutska Memorial Fund

Mick Jagger’s $180,000 donation will seed the Iryna Zarutska Memorial Fund, which
will be managed by a coalition of refugee advocacy organizations and public safety
groups. The fund will focus on:

• Educational scholarships for refugee and immigrant students pursuing higher
  education or vocational training.

• Transit safety enhancements, including funding for better lighting, security
  personnel, and emergency response systems in urban public transportation.

• Community ouvtreach programs to provide mental health support and integration
  assistance for refugees adjusting to life in the US.

Refugee support groups have welcomed the fund as a vital step toward addressing
systemic vulnerabilities and empowering survivors.

Public and Community Reaction

Jagger’s donation and message resonated widely, sparking a wave of support on
social media. Fans, activists, and public figures praised the rocker’s decision to use
his influence for social good. Hashtags like #Rememberlryna and #RockForRefugees
trended shortly after the announcement.

Charlotte’s local community expressed gratitude as well. Maria Gomez, a
community leader involved in refugee resettlement, stated

“Mick Jagger’s support not only honors Irynass life but also shines a light on the
urgent need for safer cities and better support for immigrants. It a powerful
reminder that we all have a role to play.’

Mick Jagger’s Legacy of Activism

Throughout his decades-long career, Mick Jagger has vsed his platiorm to speak on
issves ranging from human rights to environmental justice. This recent donation
aligns with his ongoing commitment to humanitarian causes, demonstrating that
even rock legends can lead by example beyond the stage.

In recent years, Jagger has become increasingly vocal about global crises, from
refugee displacement to climate change. His dedication to honoring Iryna Zarutska
adds a deeply personal and poignant chapter to his legacy.

A Lasting Impact

The Iryna Zarvtska Memorial Fund is set to launch officially in the coming weeks
with a virtval event featuring appearances from artists, activists, and community
leaders. The fundraiser aims not only to horior Iryna’s memory but to create tangible change for refugee commurities across the country.

Mick Jagger’s gift reminds vs all that empathy transcends borders and that the power of one voice — or one song — can ignite hope and healing

As Jagger poignantly noted:

“lryna’s light was extinguished too soon, but together, we can keep it shining through acts of kindness and justice.”