Doechii’s BET Awards Win: A Powerful Voice Against Immigration Raids and Protest Crackdowns

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Grammy-winning artist Doechii used her moment at the BET Awards to speak out against immigration raids and protest crackdowns happening just miles away. After winning her first BET Award for Best Female Hip-Hop Artist, she turned the attention from her victory to urgent social issues.

"There are ruthless attacks creating fear in our communities," she said. "When we exercise our democratic right to protest, it’s concerning to see military forces deployed against us."

Her words resonated with the audience at the Peacock Theater, prompting applause. Doechii emphasized her duty as an artist to advocate for those who are oppressed. "We all deserve to live in hope, not fear," she stated, urging unity for those fighting injustice.

Kevin Hart hosted the event, bringing a mix of humor and sincerity. He joked about celebrity names and made light of slippery afterparties, referencing an ongoing legal case involving Diddy. Hart teased recipients of awards, including gospel star Kirk Franklin, who received the Ultimate Icon Award.

"Don’t come up here poppin’," he laughed, alluding to Franklin’s viral dance moment. His humor set a celebratory tone while still allowing for meaningful tributes.

The night showcased major talent, with Kendrick Lamar leading the nominations at 10. His album “GNX” received acclaim, including nods for album of the year and video of the year for his hit “Not Like Us.” Lamar’s recent Grammy wins solidified his status, and he’s currently touring with SZA.

Doechii, Drake, Future, and GloRilla each followed with six nominations, highlighting the competitive nature of the event. Metro Boomin garnered five nods, while SZA and The Weeknd each received four.

Performers included Lil Wayne, GloRilla, and Teyana Taylor, promising an energetic show. Tributes were planned for the network’s iconic program "106 & Park," which was pivotal in shaping Black youth culture during its run from 2000 to 2014. Past hosts and popular performers are set to reunite for this special occasion.

The best actor category features notable names like Denzel Washington and Jamie Foxx, while the list for best actress includes talent like Viola Davis and Zendaya. Sports stars like Stephen Curry and LeBron James are also in the running for awards.

As the BET Awards continue to evolve, they highlight not just entertainment but also the voices of artists advocating for change in today’s world. The show remains a powerful platform connecting culture, art, and social issues, reminding us that amidst the celebration, important conversations are happening.

For more insights about the importance of artist activism, check out this NPR article.

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