AUCKLAND: Odd Future, a controversial hip-hop group has been removed from the Big Day Out line-up because of its homophobic lyrics. The homophobic and misogynistic lyrics speak of homosexuals in derogatory terms and describe sexual violence against women. Calum Bennachie from Wellington wrote to Big Day Out promoters, saying “Lyrics such as those played by Odd Future increase the societal discourse against LGBT [lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender] people, a discourse that encourages bullying and violence.” “If it is acceptable to say something similar to “gays are a cancer on society that deserves to be eliminated”, then what group would be next? “By allowing Odd Future to play at BDO, you are proving that you have little concern for the lives and welfare of LGBT people, that you are willing to endanger their lives, and seek to encourage stigmatisation against them. “I find this disappointing in an organisation that could do so much to enhance the self esteem of youth, reduce stigma, and discourage violence.” Auckland City Council own the Big Day Out event and have removed Odd Future from the line-up. It is not the first time an act has been pulled from the Big Day Out over homophobic views. In 2010, performer Beenie Man was removed after gay rights groups expressed outrage at his invitation due to lyrics such as: “I'm dreaming of a new Jamaica, come to execute all the gays.” Leader of Odd Future, Tyler the Creator, has previously denied accusations of homophobia. “I'm not homophobic,” said Tyler. “I just think `faggot' hits and hurts people. It hits. And `gay' just means you're stupid. I don't know, we don't think about it, we're just kids. We don't think about that shit. But I don't hate gay people. I don't want anyone to think I'm homophobic.” BM
