#fuck i forgot i deleted the transcription anyways ive added it back!!!

[robotpussy]

Benjamin Zephaniah on why he turned down receiving a OBE (The "significance" of an OBE or a MBE is that it is rewarded to somebody by the monarchy to recognise how impactful ones work has been. the video and transcript explain why it would be traitorous to receive this when the themes surrounding Zephaniah's work were wholly and completely anti British empire and colonist)

"The OBE means "Officer of the Order of the British Empire", MBE stands for "Member of the British Empire".

I've been fighting against empire all my life. I've been fighting against slavery and colonalism all my life. I've been writing to connect with people, not to impress governments and monarchy. So how could I then go and accept an honour that puts the word empire on to my name? That would be hypocritical"

"No way Mr Blair, no way Mrs Queen. I am profoundly anti-empire." - A piece Benjamin Zephaniah wrote for the Guardian in regards to his rejection of an OBE.

Rest Well Mr Zephaniah