Common Praises Black Women's Leadership At Hip-Hop Honors

Monday’s VH1 Hip-Hop Honors wasn’t just about honoring the matrons of hip-hop, but honoring all black women. Period.

While introducing a tribute to Queen Latifah, Common also took time to pay homage to the women of the movement for black rights who’ve worked tirelessly to disrupt injustice and police brutality.

“I also want to take this moment to honor all the sisters who have been on the front lines in our ongoing movement for justice,” he said. “I’m talking about Fannie Lou Hamer, Diane Nash, Angela Davis, Assata Shakur, Shirley Chisholm, I’m talking about the Black Lives Matter founders.”

In addition to these women, the rapper mentioned “everyday women” like Diamond Reynolds, who courageously documented her boyfriend Philando Castile’s last moments after he was gunned down by a cop.

“[Reynolds] tried to calmly deescalate the deadly situation and hours later, was at her governor’s mansion, demanding justice,” he continued.

“Black women, we see you. We love you. We are with you and we believe in your leadership.”

Well said, Common.

Watch Common’s speech on Billboard.