Words by Nadia Shakur
According to recent tweets from rapper Q-Tip, the universal Zulu Nation has inducted high-profile rapper Lil Wayne. No details have been released other than Q-Tip’s welcoming messages and a following tweet by Wayne with the Zulu nation email.
Founded by Hip Hop pioneer MC Afrika Bambaataa in the Bronx during the 70’s, the zulu nation is an international Hip-hop awareness organization. The organization centers around providing educational outlets for the youth the positive uplifting of the black community. Using our cultural heritage of music and dance to encourage urban organizing helped the impoverished residents of many cities find their voice. There have been some criticisms on social media about the nation giving membership to Lil Wayne because of his public gang affiliation. With research however it can be learned that the founding members of the Zulu Nation were reformed gang members who decided to use their status to carry out programs within the community.
Q-Tip tweeted his welcome and stated in these urgent times to not judge. Q-Tip has been highly vocal in the Ferguson protest after the grand jury decision not to indict Darren Wilson. Many have asked for more support from black celebrities in raising awareness. Lil Wayne joins the organization ranks with several notable artist including Ice Cube, Public Enemy and Rakim.
