In a surprising turn of events, rapper 50 Cent, known for his music and entrepreneurial ventures, has publicly endorsed a controversial constitutional amendment in Louisiana that critics argue could have detrimental effects on the state’s Black community. As early voting begins for four proposed amendments, 50 Cent’s support for Amendment Two has sparked outrage among local activists, who claim that the proposal will ultimately disadvantage working-class citizens, particularly African Americans.

The upcoming election features four amendments that aim to modify various aspects of Louisiana’s governance, including tax law and judicial proceedings. Among them, Amendment Two is presented as a measure to provide teachers with permanent pay raises and to double tax deductions for senior citizens. However, critics assert that the amendment is misleading, arguing that it primarily benefits wealthy business owners, including 50 Cent himself, while imposing greater tax burdens on working-class individuals, such as teachers and service workers.

Local activist Gary Chambers Jr., who has been vocal against the amendments, criticized 50 Cent’s endorsement, stating, “This is about what’s good for him,” referring to the rapper’s business interests in Louisiana, where he recently signed a long-term lease for a studio in Shreveport. Chambers contends that the proposed changes to the tax code will lead to increased financial strain on everyday citizens while allowing affluent individuals to retain more wealth.

Chambers elaborated that Amendment Two does not offer genuine pay raises for teachers but instead restructures funding in a way that could harm education and infrastructure. He emphasized that the legislature is seeking to create a system that favors wealthier demographics at the expense of the working class. “This policy is going to restructure our tax plan, costing poor people more money and helping rich people keep more of their money,” he said.

The endorsement has also drawn criticism for its timing and messaging, with Chambers noting that 50 Cent’s support could confuse voters who are mobilizing against the amendments. “We’re telling people to vote no on all four, and having 50 come in and say vote yes on two introduces confusion into a simple message,” he stated.

Chambers and other activists are urging Black voters in Louisiana to turn out in higher numbers during this election cycle, as they believe that increased participation could significantly influence the outcome. With Black voter turnout consistently low in past elections, the activists stress the importance of mobilizing and educating the community about the implications of these amendments.

The conversation surrounding 50 Cent’s involvement highlights broader issues affecting Louisiana, a state grappling with high poverty rates, inadequate education funding, and systemic disparities that disproportionately impact its Black population. Activists are calling for a more substantive dialogue about the future of Louisiana, advocating for policies that prioritize the needs and voices of the working class over those of affluent business interests.

As these amendments face scrutiny, the upcoming election represents a critical moment for Louisiana voters, particularly for the Black community, which holds the potential to shape not only local governance but also the trajectory of the state’s socio-economic landscape. With polls set to open soon, the outcome will hinge on voter engagement and awareness of the amendments’ true implications.