Lil Yachty has sparked controversy after calling Black Lives Matter (BLM) a “scam”, prompting a strong response from the organization.
During an appearance on the YouTube cooking show Feeding Starving Celebrities, the rapper didn’t hold back his views on the movement.
“BLM is a scam. BLM was literally a scam. They had bought mansions,” Yachty said, referring to past allegations about the organization’s financial dealings.
He then took a jab at the host, Quenlin Blackwell, saying:
“You probably wouldn’t know anything about it because you don’t care about Black people, and don’t follow Black news.”
BLM Fires Back
In a statement to FOX News, the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation refuted Yachty’s claims, accusing him of spreading misinformation.
“It’s clear Lil Yachty has been drinking the white supremacist ideology Kool-Aid. His comments are wrong. They are misinformed, unoriginal, and crafted to please the same people who profit from Black suffering,” the statement read.
The organization went on to defend its work, stating:
“The real scam isn’t Black Lives Matter. It is watching Black artists with massive platforms recycle the same tired attacks on Black movements while ignoring the actual systems killing us.”
BLM’s Controversial History
While BLM has played a significant role in advocating against police violence and supporting Black families, the movement has also faced scrutiny.
In 2022, reports surfaced that the organization purchased a $6 million compound in California, raising concerns about financial transparency. In response, BLM defended the purchase, stating:
“Despite past efforts, BLMGNF recognizes that there is more work to do to increase transparency and ensure transitions in leadership are clear.”
Additionally, co-founder Patrisse Cullors resigned in 2021 following allegations of mismanagement and lavish spending. The BLM Global Network Foundation has since been under investigation for its handling of donations, with affiliated chapters criticizing the national organization over transparency concerns.
The Bigger Debate
Lil Yachty’s remarks reignite a broader discussion about BLM’s impact, leadership, and financial accountability. While the organization maintains that it continues to fight for racial justice, critics argue that mismanagement has overshadowed its mission.
With BLM’s strong response, it remains to be seen whether Yachty will clarify or double down on his stance.
