Behemoth and Poland have a pretty rocky history together, but this one feels especially stupid.
Behemoth recently began selling black teddy bears in their webstore with the intention of donating the proceeds to UNICEF's Polish arm. Behemoth got all the money together, tried to donate it via a specific program within UNICEF, and were turned down due to "the nature of the messages accompanying the products you sell." Or in other words, UNICEF Poland didn't like Behemoth's politics surrounding their merchandise. Because you know, children in need absolutely care if Behemoth leans toward Satanism and all that.
"Sooo about our charity action and giving the income form the teddies to [UNICEF Poland] … I wanted to do so and participate in their 'company with a heart' action," wrote whoever runs Behemoth's webstore Instagram. "Attached is the answer which I just got. Translated: '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 Poland]. 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?"
