Diddy is coming to JAY-Z’s defense.
The Bad Boy mogul took to social media in the wake of backlash surrounding Hov’s partnership with the NFL. As part of the deal, JAY-Z’s Roc Nation will head up music and social justice programs for the league. But the move has drawn criticism from some, including Damon Dash, Irv Gotti, and Jemele Hill, who say JAY-Z betrayed former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick by profiting off his struggle.
On Monday, JAY-Z’s fellow Forbes tycoon publicly declared his support. “Hov is one of the greatest to ever do it, he has been there more than anybody from the hip hop culture, including me,” wrote Diddy. “He’s always been so selfless and fights for other people. We as a people can not be divided and conquered at this time!!”
He also acknowledged Kaepernick, who was drummed out of the league for kneeling during the national anthem three years ago. “I’m so proud of @Kaepernick7 and the attention he was able to bring and the efforts he continues to make. I’ll continue to support him in every way possible,” added Puff.
Diddy is hopeful that JAY will bring change to the NFL. “I’m also proud of my brother JAY Z for showing how it should be done! It’s time to play chess not checkers, I believe he is going to do some incredible things.”
He felt compelled to speak out after seeing the backlash. “I was just watching everything last week but it hurt me to my heart because I know this man personally,” he said. “He’s one of the most genuine and intelligent black leaders we’ve ever had. We cannot go against each other, there’s not enough of us.”
According to Puff, now is the time to come together. “I applaud Jay Z and I applaud the NFL for bringing him in. This isn’t just about the NFL, it’s about how black and brown people are treated daily across this country. We have to come together and make the hard decisions, nobody is going to do it for us.”
He added, “I believe in taking action, taking steps towards the right direction and I support all my brothers that are out here taking ACTION. Together we are unstoppable. #BLACKEXCELLENCE!! Happy Monday!! Be Great!!!”
Beyoncé’s mother, Tina Lawson, has also defended her son-in-law against critics by reposting comments from political activist Michael Moore, who applauded JAY-Z for sending water to Flint. “What have these Twitter woke blue checkmarks done?” asked the person who shared it to Instagram.
Lawson reposted the quote with the caption: “Good question.”