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I hate the way they portray us in the media. You see a black family, it says, 'They're looting.' You see a white family, it says, 'They're looking for food.' And, you know, it's been five days [waiting for federal help] because most of the people are black. And even for me to complain about it, I would be a hypocrite because I've tried to turn away from the TV because it's too hard to watch. I've even been shopping before even giving a donation, so now I'm calling my business manager right now to see what is the biggest amount I can give, and just to imagine if I was down there, and those are my people down there. So anybody out there that wants to do anything that we can help -- with the way America is set up to help the poor, the black people, the less well-off, as slow as possible. I mean, the Red Cross is doing everything they can. We already realize a lot of people that could help are at war right now, fighting another way -- and they've given them permission to go down and shoot us! [...] George Bush doesn't care about black people.

Kanye West#3

InequalityJusticeDisasterMediaRacism

About this quote

What does it mean?
The speaker criticizes media bias in covering black and white families during a crisis and pledges a donation.
In plain terms
The media treats black people worse than white people during disasters. I am donating money to help.
What can you take from it?
Recognize media bias and take action to support those affected by systemic inequality.

Where it applies

  • natural disasters
  • media consumption
  • social justice

Putting it to work

  • donating to relief
  • critiquing media

Questions to consider

  • How does media shape your view of crises?
  • What responsibility do you have to help others?

Another view

Personal donations may not solve systemic issues addressed in the quote.

More from Kanye West

  1. They think they can say those words and take ownership of hip-hop. You can't. It's a lifestyle. It's a culture. It's not just music.

    Permalink to quote #2
  2. I still think I am the greatest.

    Permalink to quote #4
  3. I hate music where white people are trying to sound black. The white music I like is white.

    Permalink to quote #1

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