When it comes to personal transformation, Calvin Broadus has made quite the journey. From Snoop Dogg, the gun-glorifying gangsta rapper to Snoop Lion, the peace-loving reggae artist. He’s also taken an active stance in the fight against gun violence.
His first single as Snoop Lion, No Guns Allowed, sends a clear message. It was written “to inspire social change and spark conversation in response to the devastating gun violence that claims the lives of dozens of Americans every day,” and has already inspired support and action from non-profit
organizations. The League of Young Voters Education Fund, recently launched a grassroots “No Guns Allowed” campaign in support of Snoop’s budding movement.
MTV x Caliber bracelets are made from the steel of reclaimed illegal guns
In conjunction with the debut of the video (above) — which features strong anti-gun imagery, starting with President Obama at the prayer vigil following the Sandy Hook school shooting — Snoop announced that he will be the face of a change making jewelry collection. MTV x Caliber is a collaboration between MTV and Jewelry for a Cause, featuring bracelets made from melted-down illegal guns bought back by the Newark Police Department. For every $40 bracelet, $8 will go to buying more guns.
“This is such an important message we’re sharing,” said Snoop Lion. “It’s a movement we want generations to recognize, embrace, and get behind. We’ve seen a lot of senseless acts of violence involving guns recently — too many have lost their lives, too many families have been destroyed. Like my friends at MTV, I want to be a part of the change that will help bring peace.”
