JAY Z tries to change the system
In the wake of the drama that has engulfed the U.S. following the tragedies in Ferguson, MO and Staten Island, NY, many people from all walks of life have let their voices be heard via protests, die-ins, and social media. Actors, musicians, and athletes are among some of the celebrities who have voiced their opinions on these matters. LeBron James and various other NBA players sported “I Can’t Breathe” shirts earlier in the week, further sparking the debate on whether or not celebrities, especially black celebs, have an obligation to speak out.
One of the celebrities that was taken to task on social media was JAY Z. Fans raised questions as to why someone of Hov’s stature had not used any of his public platforms to speak, considering that he has faithfully represented New York City throughout his career. All of the speculation has been quelled today as JAY Z publicly met with New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo to discuss the criminal justice system and possible solutions the to the current systems inadequacies.
Cuomo Communications Director Melissa DeRosa:
“Governor Cuomo and Shawn ‘JAY Z’ Carter had a productive conversation about doing a top to bottom review of the Criminal Justice system and how we can all work together to pass a reform package that ensures equality in the eyes of the law,”
This meeting comes on the same day that the DailyKos ran a story about JAY Z’s philanthropic endeavors that have not been publicized in the media. According to the report, Hov pays the tuition of Sean Bell‘s children, the unarmed man who was shot to death by NYPD back in 2006. The story also states that he has provided funding to those working on the ground during the protests in Ferguson, MO.
