M.I.A. Slams MTV VMAs: “Racism Sexism Classism Elitism”
This year’s MTV VMA nominations were revealed on Tuesday. Beyoncé and Adele lead the pack with 11 and eight nods respectively. This morning, M.I.A. called out the VMAs for overlooking “Borders,” her video addressing the present refugee crisis. “This is a perfect example of ‘allowed’ voice vs excluded voices,” she tweeted.
MIA – BORDERS is not included in the VMAs #hahahahhaahahhaha!! Racism sexism classism elitism #dontwantyourlane!
— M.I.A (@MIAuniverse) July 28, 2016
BORDERS came representing people outside US showing 🌍. This is a perfect example of “allowed” voice vs excluded voices .Even if U direct it.
— M.I.A (@MIAuniverse) July 28, 2016
not here 4 EGO or Accolades but know before you tell other 🌍 artists they have the same platform as major US artists coz they don’t #🌍
— M.I.A (@MIAuniverse) July 28, 2016
Earlier this year, talking about the video on Al-Jazeera, M.I.A. said:
The reaction’s been extreme, [as with] most of my work. It has weeded out a lot of hate from neo-Nazi groups, and people thinking that it’s going to cause white genocide, and that’s what I’m promoting. Obviously, on the other side, I have had a tremendous amount of support from my fans and other people who feel that it’s important for artists and musicians to speak about current affairs, and things that actually affect our society.
M.I.A.’s new album, A.I.M., is due out September 9.
Read “How M.I.A. Is a Lifeline in Times of Terror” and “M.I.A. vs. the System: A Complete Timeline of her Controversies” on the Pitch.
Watch the video:
Watch M.I.A. discuss the video on Al-Jazeera:
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