Jay Z has released a statement in response to widespread criticism he has received over his collaboration with Barneys. A campaign to boycott the high-end department store has started over recent allegations that it routinely disciminates against black shoppers, and a call has risen for Jay, who is planning a holiday-season collection parnership with Barneys this year, to weigh in on the matter. In his statement, Jay explained that his collaboration with Barneys was created out of the spirit of charity, as 25% of sales will be going to the Shawn Carter Foundation. "This money is going to help individuals facing socio-economic hardships to help further their education at institutions of higher learning," Jay said.
In the second part of the statement, Jay expressed his desire to show restraint before rushing to action. Referring to an upcoming meeting that is supposed to take place between community leaders and Barneys, Jay said that he did not want to take action before all the facts were known. "I am against discrimination of any kind, but if I make snap judgements, no matter who it’s towards, aren’t I committing the same sin as someone who profiles?"
Jay not only explained his reasoning behind not saying anything thus far, but also spoke out against those demanding an immediate response, claiming that they have been attacking his character "erroneously."
The full statement is available at Life & Times.
[via Life & Times]
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