In a genre where bragging about your masculinity is a considerable requirement, hip-hop has often used words like “fag” or simply “gay” to describe a lack of manhood or weakness. However, in the wake of Sunday’s massacre in Orlando, Kid Cudi vows to change the hip-hop communities homophobic views and attitudes.
The Hip Hop community is the least outspoken about gay rights and Ima go out my way to change that.
— The Chosen One (@KidCudi) June 12, 2016
Cudi took to Twitter after hearing that a gunman opened fire at Pulse, a club i nOrlando, in what is being called the ‘worst of its kind’ leaving at least 49 dead and 53 others injured.
My heart and prayers go out to the LGBT community and everyone affected by this tragedy. Really upset today.
— The Chosen One (@KidCudi) June 12, 2016
Another possible attack was intercepted in Los Angeles this weekend, a man was arrested for having guns and explosives on his person while on the way to LA Pride festivities.
— The Chosen One (@KidCudi) June 12, 2016
Although admitting “I wish there was more I could do than tweet, build awareness and donate money. That’s not enough. Not for me.” Cudi is picking up a conversation that was started nearly 10 years ago, when Kanye West called for a ban on the word “fag”.
@KidCudi encourage people in the Orlando area to give blood! LGBT people can't donate & theres a shortage atm!
— Chicken Fried Mellie (@ifursure) June 12, 2016
Other hip-hop artist including, Nicki Minaj, Lil B, A$AP Rocky, and Jay Z have all been longtime public supporters of gay rights. Perhaps Cudi will bring a few more like Ty Dollar $ign who echoed Cudi’s tweets.
IF YOU ARE AN INSECURE HOMOPHOBE AND HAVE A ISSUE WITH GAYS AND EQUALITY, UNFOLLOW ME NOW. THANK YOU
— The Chosen One (@KidCudi) June 12, 2016
https://twitter.com/KidCudi/status/742101765814767616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
https://twitter.com/tydollasign/status/742099362860371972?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
https://twitter.com/tydollasign/status/742105552839413760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
With hip-hop forever changing it is possible that we will see a change in homophobic attitudes in the genre. We can only hope others will follow the footsteps of Kid Cudi in raising awareness and putting the issue front and centre.
Image: Billboard