Kendrick Lamar & Women's Rights: Exploring His Advocacy

Carli Hackett 10 May 2025

Is Kendrick Lamar, a Grammy-winning artist, becoming a voice for social and political change through his music and actions? His outspoken advocacy for women's rights, particularly in response to the Supreme Court's decision on Roe v. Wade, signals a deliberate shift towards using his platform for more than just musical expression.

The intersection of art and activism has always been a complex space, and for Kendrick Lamar, it's become increasingly visible. His 2022 performance at the Glastonbury Festival provided a stark example. During his set, Lamar repeatedly voiced his support for "women's rights" and denounced the overturning of the constitutional right to abortion. This wasn't a subtle hint; it was a direct and powerful statement broadcast to a massive global audience. This act of defiance, coupled with his performance at the Super Bowl, has undeniably thrust Lamar into the spotlight, making many question if his political stance has been amplified.

Beyond Glastonbury, Lamar's stance has resonated in other ways. At the BET Awards, Latto, whose hit single "Big Energy" dominated the charts, dedicated her acceptance speech to abortion rights, a poignant moment that highlighted the growing conversation within the music industry. This demonstrates the wide-ranging influence of artists like Lamar and the power of using platforms, like award shows, to address societal issues. His actions serve as a catalyst, encouraging dialogue and inspiring action among his fans and the broader public.

Attribute	Details
Full Name	Kendrick Lamar Duckworth
Born	June 17, 1987 (age 36) in Compton, California, U.S.
Occupation	Rapper, Songwriter, Record Producer
Years Active	2004present
Notable Albums	Section.80, good kid, m.A.A.d city, To Pimp a Butterfly, DAMN., Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers
Awards	17 Grammy Awards, Pulitzer Prize for Music
Partner	Whitney Alford (engaged)
Children	2
Religion	Christianity
Reference	Encyclopedia Britannica

Lamar's performance at the Super Bowl, a quintessential American event, has also amplified scrutiny of his views. His actions, particularly the integration of themes with political undertones, were interpreted by many as either a form of endorsement or a form of public statement. The nature of his performance, steeped in American imagery, invited questions about whether the artist was aligning himself with a particular political stance, or whether he was simply leveraging the event as a platform to further convey his artistic message.

The rapper's stance on abortion rights, articulated during his Glastonbury set, mirrors the sentiments of many other artists and public figures, including Olivia Rodrigo, who spoke at Glastonbury regarding the overturning of Roe v. Wade. Lamar's decision to address the Supreme Court's controversial decision reflects a trend of artists using their platforms to voice opinions on critical social matters. His statements contribute to a wider cultural conversation about bodily autonomy and women's rights, amplified in the wake of the decision.

Notably, the closing act of his Glastonbury set was a powerful display of protest. Lamar donned a crown of thorns, with blood symbolically pouring down his face. This visual statement was a direct and potent denouncement of the loss of abortion rights in the US. This performance sparked debate as it challenged societal norms and urged deeper reflection. Whats more, as the crown of thorns is closely associated with Christian iconography, the choice prompted conversations on the artist's faith and its connection to his expression of social and political opinions.

The question of Lamar's Christian faith adds another layer of complexity to the discussion. His actions prompt a fundamental question: How can one reconcile the artist's faith with his public support for abortion rights? The answer lies in understanding the diversity of religious interpretations and acknowledging that faith is deeply personal. For some, his stance may seem incongruous with their religious beliefs, while others may see it as an extension of their commitment to social justice and human rights. Lamar himself has stated that he does not use social media because it would interfere with his Christian beliefs. This reveals the deep connection Lamar has with his spirituality while still maintaining a public stance on controversial topics.

The intersection of politics and art has become a recurring theme in Lamar's career. While his music has always reflected the Black experience, the artist has never explicitly endorsed a particular political party. However, it's worth noting that his songs "Not Like Us" and "Freedom" have been utilized by political figures, including Kamala Harris, at rallies. Still, this doesnt mean the artist himself chose to lend his voice or perform at those events. Therefore, although the influence of Lamar's music is undeniable, his deliberate detachment from any political platform suggests an effort to keep his artistic vision pure.

The upcoming Super Bowl halftime show has naturally generated considerable buzz. The selection of performers for this event involves complex decisions, as Desiree Perez, the CEO of Roc Nation, has stated. The choice of Lamar was intentional and highlights his influence within the cultural landscape. Lamars music transcends the conventional bounds of commercial rap. As noted by academics, his musical style reflects deep artistic integrity, therefore separating him from the many mainstream performers. This makes him an ideal choice for a show that is watched by a global audience.

Furthermore, the potential for controversy is an undeniable factor. The feud with Drake could likely influence the narrative and coverage. But more fundamentally, the Super Bowl halftime show is more than just a performance; it's a high-stakes media event that presents the opportunity to gain considerable financial and cultural capital. Lamar understands this potential for influence. By choosing to use this platform for social commentary, he demonstrates a clear commitment to using his artistry to advocate for change and highlight the critical issues of our time.

Moreover, the reversal of Roe v. Wade has spurred a widespread response from artists. At Glastonbury, the expression of viewpoints wasn't limited to Lamar, other artists, such as Billie Eilish, Lorde, and Phoebe Bridgers, also chose to speak out about abortion laws. In certain regions of the United States, the pro-choice argument is considered to be in direct opposition to the values and beliefs of many communities. Yet, the issue of abortion rights remains deeply debated, with many people continuing to debate the nuances of these discussions.

The complexities surrounding the Roe v. Wade decision are not easily dismissed. Forcing a pro-choice stance onto communities with differing viewpoints can invalidate the argument in the eyes of the public. Many women, along with many people nationwide, do not subscribe to a pro-choice viewpoint. Leaving the issue of abortion rights to the states, as opposed to federal legislation, may seem the most appropriate move forward.

The news of Lamars performance at the Super Bowl, and his public statements on sociopolitical issues, have triggered intense media coverage. Even when some people created a false post on social media in 2024, they attempted to depict former President Trump as a fan of Lamars song "Not Like Us." Regardless of who is a fan or not, the power of social media to either promote or denigrate a performer, is immense. Lamar's deliberate efforts to stay away from social media, in a quest to be true to his religious convictions, highlights how much he values his private life, away from the incessant intrusion of social media platforms.

As discussions continue around Lamar and the impact of his music, the NFL is said to be considering adjustments to the Super Bowl. This may lead to new protocols, especially with an increasing number of artists choosing to express social and political views. The balance between artistic freedom and the demands of a mainstream audience will be tested, and the outcome will influence how future performers will be allowed to express themselves in the Super Bowl and other large-scale events.

Lamars impact is not limited to music. His private life also generates interest. He is engaged to Whitney Alford, a woman of mixed black and white heritage. Their relationship, along with his role as a father, offers a different perspective on his life. Lamar's public persona and artistic expression represent a complex tapestry of experiences. His ability to blend faith, social commentary, and artistic expression has established his importance. He has also broadened the boundaries of what is achievable for contemporary musicians.