A History of Rappers Standing Up For Gay Rights

Jay-Z's not the only hip-hop artist who isn't down with homophobia.

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Complex Original

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Yesterday while out in "The City of Brotherly Love" promoting his two-day Made in America music festival, Jay-Z was asked what he thought about President Barack Obama's stance on gay marriage. As usual, Hov backed Obama up, saying that not allowing gays to get married is "discrimination plain and simple."

But Jay-Z's not the only rap star whose position on gay rights has evolved. Let's face it, hip-hop's reputation as a hotbed of homophobia has been largely well-deserved. Still, there have always been pockets of progressive thought within the culture, and these days more and more rappers are coming out in support of gay rights—whether through interviews, music, or other public forums. Are there inconsistencies? Sure. But let's give credit where credit is due.

Written by Brad Wete (@BradWete)

RELATED: Pigeons & Planes - Homosexuality in Hip-Hop

Eminem (February 2001)

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Kanye West (August 2005)

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Asher Roth (June 2008)

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Nicki Minaj (September 2010)

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50 Cent (April 2011)

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Lil B (April 2011)

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A$AP Rocky (October 2011)

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Fat Joe (Nov. 2011)

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Queen Latifah (May 2012)

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Jay-Z (May 2012)

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