A New York State of Mind: Nas Receives W.E.B. DuBois Medal from Harvard University

JG @torhhpodcast

11 years ago

Nas has always represented the culture and his people proudly. The awards he has received as a rapper and a person are too extensive to list, but this latest one might be the most cherished to the Queens rapper. The rapper most recently was awarded Harvard University’s W.E.B. DuBois medal.

The W.E.B. Du Bois Medal is given out annually for individuals who have excelled in their contributions to African-American culture. It is the highest award that the African-American studies department gives out. Nas is the rapper to receive the award and was joined by Former U.S. Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr, Professor Louis Gates, Muhammad Ali and several other recipients.

During Nas’ speech he said, “These are the things the kids need to see. The real things. This is a light I want on me. I hope that I can be a great role model for those kids…you can be more than the typical image of rap.”

No one will disagree with that, congrats Nas!