NJ State Police “Outraged” Over Rapper Invite to White House
Brian Thompson and Marcus Riley | NBC New York
May 11, 2011
The invitation of rapper Common to the White House this week is drawing the ire of the union representing New Jersey state police.
While even casual hip-hop fans wouldn’t characterize him as a controversial rapper, Common found himself under the microscope after First Lady Michelle Obama invited him to the White House for an arts event. In question: the lyrics to “A Song for Assata,” about convicted cop-killer and former Black Panther Assata Shakur.
The White House said Wednesday it stood by the decision to invite Common. Press Secretary Jay Carney said the conservative backlash distorts what Common stands for, and added that the president appreciates Common’s work with children in Chicago.
Read more @ NBC New York.
