Holly Robinson Peete is a well-known actress and autism activist. She first came across the lyrics to Drake’s song “Jodeci Freestyle” when her 15-year-old son, R.J., who has autism, showed them to her. In a recent interview on Access Hollywood Live, Robinson Peete spoke about the experience and explained that R.J. had asked her to explain a highly offensive line in the song performed by rapper J. Cole.
Robinson Peete, who has been open about her son’s autism diagnosis and has been an advocate for individuals with autism and their families, said that she was shocked and saddened by the offensive language in the song. She emphasized the importance of understanding and awareness regarding autism and how words can hurt and cause harm.
“As a mother of a child with autism, I was taken aback by the lyrics and the hurtful message they conveyed,” Robinson Peete said in the interview. “Autism is a complex and often misunderstood condition, and using it as a punchline in a song only serves to stigmatize further and marginalize individuals with autism and their families.”
She went on to explain that she had a conversation with R.J. about the lyrics and the impact of words, encouraging him to use his voice and speak out against discrimination and stigma. Robinson Peete said she was proud of her son for asking questions and being curious about the world around him but was disappointed that he had been exposed to such hurtful language.
“It’s important for all of us to be mindful of the words we use and the impact they can have, especially when it comes to addressing sensitive topics like autism,” Robinson Peete said. “We need to work together to create a world where individuals with autism and other disabilities are valued, respected, and included.”
Overall, Robinson Peete’s experience with Drake’s “Jodeci Freestyle” serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and awareness when it comes to autism and other disabilities. It also highlights the need for more inclusive and accepting language.
