ABC News recently claims that a “shadow has been placed over the BET Awards.” A person was killed during the show, and four others were injured during an incident that has embarrassed the company that has been often criticized for promoting violent music at the expense of the black community.
An overnight party held early Sunday in East Hollywood was to promote the awards show. There was one gunman, who is still at-large, according to police. Officer Drake Madison of the Los Angeles Police Department says that the shooting took place at 5:17 am.
The shooter shot several rounds at party-goers and three victims were taken to the hospital. One person died on the way. The shootings took place at Monalizza, a restaurant and banquet hall.
The event “was like an after-party even though the awards are tonight,” Madison said.
BET said in a statement.
“The network and all organizers will continue to maintain a safe environment for all planned activities,” the statement said.
The rapper Drake was set to perform at the show, but is not going to attend. Beyonce will also not be attending. There is no word as to whether or not the violence has anything to do with their decisions.
There are many who’ve criticized the BET Awards and the network for glamorizing the popularity of black-on-black crime by promoting artists like Lil Wayne, who’ve become wealthy rapping about death in the black community. But until today, the violence has typically stayed in poor urban neighborhoods. This is the first time that violence of this scale has seeped into the higher echelons of entertainment.
What do you think? Does BET’s promotion of violent music have nothing to do with the outcomes at this party? If they were promoting other forms of music, would the shootings be just as likely?
(via Black Like Moi)
