Nas, considered one of the most politically conscious rappers in the game, penned an open letter to his fans urging action to combat what he said was institutionalized racism and the policies of President Donald Trump.
In the letter, which was published by Mass Appeal and titled Action Speaks Louder Than Words No time for lippin’ in the so-called “Trump era,” Nas explains that Trump’s perceived brand of racism is more harmful because of the authority he holds.
“We all know a racist is in office,” he says in the letter. “People can talk their shit. Comedians can sound racist. People can go through their moments of that shit, but when you have the responsibility of being President and you carry on like that, you send a strong message to people outside of your group that they ain’t worth shit.”
Throughout the rest of the letter, Nas explains that he prefers to use music as a method to affect change in the world, and that he’ll continue doing so—regardless of who’s in office now or who enters it next.
“Whatever president may be in office doesn’t affect my work directly. The way he affects people is what affects me. I observe what’s going on and that goes into my creative process. The person himself, I’m not caught up with. I don’t even have time for Trump or Pence. I don’t give a fuck.” he said.
