Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member Latest Breaking News General Discussion The DU Lounge All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

JackBeck

(12,359 posts)
Thu Jul 5, 2012, 02:06 PM Jul 2012

Russell Simmons: "Today is a big day for hip-hop."

The Courage Of Frank Ocean Just Changed The Game! by Russell Simmons

Posted July 4, 2012 by Russell Simmons

Today is a big day for hip-hop. It is a day that will define who we really are. How compassionate will we be? How loving can we be? How inclusive are we?

I am profoundly moved by the courage and honesty of Frank Ocean. Your decision to go public about your sexual orientation gives hope and light to so many young people still living in fear. These types of secrets should not matter anymore, but we know they do, and because of that I decided to write this short statement of support for one of the greatest new artists we have.

His gifts are undeniable. His talent, enormous. His bravery, incredible. His actions this morning will uplift our consciousness and allow us to become better people. Every single one of us is born with peace and tranquility in our heart. Frank just found his.

Frank, we thank you. We support you. We love you.

-Russell Simmons

http://globalgrind.com/entertainment/russell-simmons-letter-to-frank-ocean-gay-bi-sexual-comes-out-photos/

Many of us can claim ownership to our own narrative of that awkward journey to self-actualization. Frank Ocean is no different.

Once again, I believe we are witnessing one of those sea-change moments, as we continue to break down the walls of institutionalized homophobia in every facet of our society.

7 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
Highlight: NoneDon't highlight anything 5 newestHighlight 5 most recent replies
Russell Simmons: "Today is a big day for hip-hop." (Original Post) JackBeck Jul 2012 OP
This is wonderful. murielm99 Jul 2012 #1
Recommended. William769 Jul 2012 #2
Russel Simmons.....nice guy, bad taste in women thelordofhell Jul 2012 #3
I love it Vanje Jul 2012 #4
I think I read that Frank Ocean is set to release his first solo album... joeybee12 Jul 2012 #5
"his talent - enormous" - now there's an opinion being spouted as fact lol nt msongs Jul 2012 #6
Hopefully, more public figures will feel free to be themselves. beyurslf Jul 2012 #7

Vanje

(9,766 posts)
4. I love it
Thu Jul 5, 2012, 02:34 PM
Jul 2012

It feels like Obama's declaration of pro-equal marriage has broken a dam.

Or maybe the dam already had broken.
At any rate , 2012 is the best year ever !

 

joeybee12

(56,177 posts)
5. I think I read that Frank Ocean is set to release his first solo album...
Thu Jul 5, 2012, 03:03 PM
Jul 2012

Interesting and brave timing...knr

Latest Discussions»Alliance Forums»LGBT»Russell Simmons: "To...