Independence Day is a celebration for some, but a day of conflict for many of those who come for marginalized communities. While the holiday marks the nation’s separation from Great Britain, it does not commemorate the freedom of enslaved people or indigenous communities. With that said, Killer Mike hopes that those who come from historically disenfranchised communities will feel patriotic on this day because this country would not exist without the contributions of marginalized groups, particularly Black folks.
“I wanted people to understand that patriotism is not exclusive to white people—this republic is not here simply because of white Anglo-Saxon protestants,” Killer Milke told Jordan Rose of Complex.
“You have been here every step of the way, in fact. Everyone has been here every step of the way.”
Using this line of thinking, Killer Mike created “Run,” his first single as a lead artist in a decade. Assisted by Dave Chappelle and Young Thug, Killer Mike delivers a track that attempts to celebrate all that Black folks have accomplished and all that lies ahead.
Check out Killer Mike’s “Run” video below.
