NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - FEBRUARY 2: Cash Money Records CEO and Founder Birdman poses in front of his logo during the Emline Ball at The Fillmore New Orleans on February 2, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Peter G. Forest/Getty Images)
Chile! Birdman had social media in an uproar on Juneteenth over books! Folks online speculated whether he’s the speaker who gave a HOT TAKE on books to a group of inmates in New Orleans.
For context, Complex has confirmed that Birdman was the speaker, though the rapper has yet to confirm himself on his public profiles.
According to the outlet, the NOLA native recently visited Orleans Parish Prison. While there, he allegedly initiated discussions on ways to support those incarcerated.
In a now-viral video, two men engage in a conversation about power and improving their situations, with one inmate emphasizing the need for reading materials. While it’s unclear when the video was taken, the recording seemingly shows the back of Bird’s head as he faces several men in orange jumpsuits.
During the conversation, the man believed to be the Cash Money Records co-founder says, “How can I help y’all?” Shortly after, an unidentified inmate responds, “We need inside help as far as literature, for these guys having books to read.”
Birdman didn’t hesitate to respond to the inmate’s comment with a question.
“You think having books is gonna…No disrespect to reading books,” Birdman said.
The clip ends abruptly, leaving Birdman’s full statement unclear. However, what was captured has been enough to spark controversy on social media.
Watch the viral clip below.
Birdman’s alleged statement about books sparked strong reactions across social media platforms like Instagram and X, formerly known as Twitter.
The Roomies quickly entered The Shade Room comment section to support the inmates’ perspective on books.
Instagram user @chiwiththevibes wrote, “This is what happens when you value money over education.”
While Instagram user @sowellsaid wrote, “Y’all could have posted this after Juneteenth.”
Then Instagram user @the_final_democrat_boss wrote, “Books actually help a lot in there.”
Instagram user @karranr_ wrote, “The prisoner talking better than him…”
Instagram user @lazelle.doll wrote, “Is the whole word now just one big episode of The Boondocks.”
Another Instagram user @nybangaaaa wrote, “They should’ve knew to put some respect on his name.”
Finally, Instagram user @ms.moore_me wrote, “Some have become their own lawyers in there so books are extremely important.”
Swipe below to see additional reactions.
