Drake has the ability to captivate the masses like an experienced advertising director. He understands that even sharing something as simple as a new hairstyle can dominate social media for days. When he used his Instagram story to call for Tory Lanez’s release, he knew it would generate a similar level of attention as activists chanting “Free Meek Mill” in the streets of Philadelphia. On Monday, Drake shared a photo of Tory with the caption “3 You,” symbolizing open handcuffs.
“Free [Insert Person]” is a common phrase in communities of color. “Free Meek” was a protest against the extended probation of the Philadelphia rapper. “Free Mumia [Abu-Jamal]” aims to highlight a freedom fighter believed to have been wrongly convicted. In some cases, like with “Free Bobby Shmurda,” it acknowledges the systemic inequality that can push good people into making bad choices, leading to a cycle of entrapment.
While you may advocate, show empathy, or stand in solidarity by chanting “free” for someone, chanting “Free Tory Lanez” is inappropriate.
Last August, Tory was sentenced to 10 years in California State Prison for shooting Megan Thee Stallion in 2020. In December 2022, he was convicted of assault with a semi-automatic firearm and other charges.
Despite the evidence pointing to his guilt, Drake, Chris Brown, Meek Mill, and others have shown support for Tory. This raises questions about whether they disbelieve Megan or simply don’t care about what happened to her.
Following the shooting incident, the public treated it more as entertainment than a traumatic event that requires accountability. The disrespect towards Megan and lack of seriousness about domestic violence in hip-hop culture is concerning.
Drake has had his own controversies with women, including recent incidents involving Rihanna and A$AP Rocky. His support for individuals with questionable behaviour raises concerns about his values.
Drake, Chris Brown, and Meek Mill, among others, have expressed support for Tory Lanez post-sentencing, despite his actions and behaviour leading up to the trial. Advocates for restorative justice believe in accountability without the need for incarceration.
Despite Tory’s conviction, there are still efforts to absolve him in the online gossip world, perpetuating misogynistic beliefs. Major music figures enabling this behaviour is troubling.
Despite their problematic actions, artists like Drake continue to have dedicated fanbases. This normalization of supporting convicted offenders of Black women raises important questions about accountability in the industry.