Meek Mill releases PSA response to police shooting of Pittsburgh teen Antwon Rose

The rapper said in a statement he was compelled to speak out because what happened to the teen illustrates the themes in his most recent album

This week, Meek Mill and his record label DreamChasers have unveiled a powerful Public Service Announcement about Antwon Rose II, the unarmed 17-year-old and honor roll student who was fatally shot by an East Pittsburgh police officer last June.

According to an official press release, the rapper says he was moved to release the PSA because Rose’s story tragically illustrates the messages conveyed in his latest album, CHAMPIONSHIPS, specifically in songs such as “Trauma”, “Championships” and “Oodles O’ Noodles Babies.”

READ MORE: 5 Things to know about Antwon Rose, the unarmed Black teen gunned down by East Pittsburgh police

“In those songs, Meek touched on the issues that plagued his neighborhood in Philadelphia (and many others across the country) and has motivated him to advocate for change in those communities, starting with the criminal justice system,” reads the statement.

“My hope is this PSA will inspire people to come together and create change in our communities,” explained Meek. “Our country needs more communication and understanding — not hate and division — so it’s important that we collectively start the conversation and work to leave a lasting impact for future generations.”

“I’m very grateful that Meek Mill and the DreamChasers put this PSA together about Antwon and highlighted the need for universal respect,” said Rose’s mother Michelle Kenney who can be heard narrating throughout the PSA. “To make our communities better, we must show each other more love, care, generosity and empathy. I’m proud that Meek is using his platform to send that positive message and honor my son.”

Check out the full video below.

READ MORE: Demonstrators shut down highway in protest of fatal police shooting of unarmed teen Antwon Rose

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