Just over a month after the release of her critically acclaimed debut album, Room 25 (2018), Fatimah Warner (AKA Noname) tweeted on October 15th that she will be replacing the album’s cover art after the artist, Bryan Giles, was charged for misdemeanor domestic battery:

“In light of recent allegations, I will be working to replace the cover artwork of Room 25. I do not and will not support abusers, and I will always stand up for victims and believe their stories. My heart goes out to Ellie, her family, and all survivors of abuse.”

Room 25 is a magnificent coming-of-age story built on neo-soul and jazz. The Chicago rapper’s debut mixtape, Telefone (2016), and frequent appearances on Chance the Rapper’s work have led her to wide recognition in the hip-hop scene. However, the beauty of her album was shaken when these charges were brought on the cover-artist. Many fans have been tweeting their praise for her choice. Along with the supportive tweets, fans have also been sending their artwork for Noname to see, hoping she will choose their pieces to replace Giles’. Her decision to replace the album art reflects her commitment to justice. This isn’t the first time that Noname has made a change for social justice, though. Back in 2016, she removed “Gypsy” from her stage name to keep from offending Romani people. Her responsiveness and awareness, along with her musical brilliance, has made her a highly respected artist among fans and the wider hip-hop community.

After the recent confirmation of Judge Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court, it seems as if the unjust treatment of women is finally making it to the public eye. It is not acceptable to ignore and excuse male misconduct and violence. Now, it’s our turn to decide what we want to do about it. Noname has made it clear that she stands with victims and believes their stories. Every one of us has the right to decide who we believe and what kind of behavior we will tolerate. If someone believes that an individual’s behavior is offensive or abusive or threatening, then each of us has the right to not support that person, not just Noname. She can take a stand, and so can we, whether it’s by educating or voting or not buying their artwork.

 

 

Written by Josh Hauser

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