Rapper/Producer Kanye West has never had a problem speaking his mind. But no one could have been prepared for what West would say during his appearance on “A Concert for Hurricane Relief”- a live telethon that was broadcasted across America.
While his broadcasting partner, comedian Mike Myers read from a teleprompter, West broke away from his script and instead spoke passionately and honestly about his disgust at the portrayal of the African American refugees in New Orleans. “I hate the way they portray us in the media,” West said. “We see a black family, it says they’re looting, see a white family, it says they’re looking for food.” West continued to speak about the slow treatment that the refugees in New Orleans were receiving and, just like many Americans he explained, “I’ve tried to turn away from the TV because it’s too hard to watch.”
Comedian Mike Myers then tried to continue the broadcast by providing viewers with the necessary information on how to contribute a donation, but when he turned to West to help end the session, West looked straight into the camera and declared: “George Bush doesn’t care about black people.”
West was justified in making his statement as President Bush’s actions have been more than negligent. West simply took the opportunity to point this out to the American people. Many people across the nation reacted negatively towards West’s statement, calling him far too impulsive for his own good.
However, “there’s no convincing him,” as West speaks out about what he believes to be true about our president. Bush’s past actions give credence to the Roc-A-Fella rapper/ producer’s emotional outburst.
After West declared his view on Bush and his alleged bias against black people, the telecast quickly cut its attention to comedian Chris Tucker who had an expression on his face that read: “I can’t believe this brother just said that.” None of us can, but at least someone said something whether we agree with it or not that has helped to open our eyes.