“In the west today we see a free world that has achieved a level of failure unprecedented in all human history” is the opening sample to Chuck D’s powerful ‘Tear Down That Wall’.
Angered by Arizona Governor Jan Brewer's recent bill aimed at identifying, prosecuting and deporting illegal immigrants by racial profiling - a move which has been slammed by Mexican President Felipe Calderón and U.S. President Barack Obama - Public Enemy's Chuck D did what he does best and put his thoughts on record.More powerful than a shotgun, D's track refers to the law as "modern day slavery" and draws comparisons with the Berlin wall, demanding that they "tear this wall down".
"My passion comes from what I know and who I am. I refuse to lose and be confused by this new scam," D defiantly declares.
"I am issuing a call to action, urging my fellow musicians, artists, athletes, performers, and production companies to refuse to work in Arizona until officials not only overturn this bill, but recognize the human rights of immigrants," D said in a statement. "This should include the NBA playoffs, revisiting the actions of the NFL in 1993, when they moved the Superbowl to Pasadena in protest against Arizona's refusal to recognize Dr. King. We all need to speak up in defense of our brothers and sisters being victimized in Arizona, because things are only getting worse. What theyre doing to immigrants is appalling, but it will be even more damning if we remain silent."
Four minutes and thirty eight seconds is all it takes for Chuck D to articulate the anger of the people and reassure his place as the most thought-provoking rapper of all time.
Mister somebody, heed the call.
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