T.I. and Floyd Mayweather (Wikipedia/Flickr)
Rapper T.I. gave boxing champion Floyd Mayweather some free information on the issue of proclaiming “all lives matter” instead of “Black lives matter.”
While speaking to The Boxing Voice, Mayweather criticized BLM and preached respectability politics.
“A lot of times we get stuck, and we are followers,” he said. “When you hear one person say, ‘Black lives matter,’ or ‘blue lives matter’ – all lives matter. What I learned from boxing [and] what everyone can take in real life is: follow directions, follow order. Don’t give nobody a hard time.”
So in response, T.I. posted a lengthy Instagram message Wednesday.
TIP began by distancing himself from the duo’s past brawl on the Vegas strip, putting “all our past personal differences and opinions of each other aside.”
Then, the education began.
“This is socially irresponsible, inconsiderate and insensitive,” the “Warzone” MC said. “It mirrors delusional oblivion in a way only brainwashing tactics can achieve. This completely undermines and discredits the movements that fight for the plights of our people.”
He explained Mayweather’s celebrity status means he should voice support for the greater good of African-Americans.
“You’re a leader whether you know it or not. Don’t get so lost in personal possession or individual achievement that you lose sight of the things that are larger than all of us,” he wrote. “A true champion is a man of the people. A true champion makes sacrifices for the people and takes a stand against injustices for those who may not be strong enough or able to do so.”
After explaining the true meaning of “greatness” and stating the different sides of oppression, T.I. made it clear he needed to respectfully inform Mayweather about the impact of the athlete’s comments.
“I have an obligation to myself and those who follow me to address this,” he said. “Just know I ain’t looking to clown you. I’m just trying to enlighten you, hoping that with better insight you can use your powers for good.”
See T.I.’s full post below.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BLeXWU0hzuA/
