Jean Grae Translates Obama’s State of the Union Address 2011

The Hip-Hop nation’s zeal for politics has dulled since Barack Obama’s inauguration in 2008. The latest proof of that could be seen via Twitter over the last two days. When popular and controversial website World Star Hip Hop went down, it was a constant topic of discussion amongst fans and artists. During last night’s State of the Union Address, which can lead to actions that have far more impact on our lives, only a handful dedicated Hip-Hop adherents were paying attention.

Perhaps the issue these days is that the “language of politics” has turned many people off. Never fear, because Jean Grae has come to the rescue. An affable personality, Grae has never been at a loss for words, and did Hip-Hop culture proud by volunteering to “translate” Obama’s speech into layman’s terms last night. Below, Obama’s main speech quotes are followed by her commentary. Make sure to follow Jean on Twitter and be on the lookout for her new album, Cake or Death. I’m going to hit up CNN right now to see if we can get Ms. Grae signed on as an analyst

Amid all the noise, hash and rancor of our public debate, Tucson reminded us that no matter who we are, or where we come from, each of us is a part of something greater. Something more consequential than party or political preference. We are part of the American family. We believe in a country where every race and point of view can found, we are still one people.

If you worked hard, chances are you’d have a job for life, with a decent paycheck and good benefits, with the occasional promotion…That world has changed. For many that change has been painful.

We also have to win the race to educate our kids. Think about it. Over the next 10 years, nearly half of all new jobs will require education that goes beyond a high school diploma. And yet as many as a quarter of our students aren’t even finishing high school. The quality of our math and science lags behind many other nations.

Our infrastructure used to be the best…When our own engineers graded our nation’s infrastructure, they gave us a “D.” We have to do better.

Now I have heard rumors a few of you still have concerns about our healthcare law. Let me be the first to say anything can be improved. If you have ideas about how to make healthcare better or more affordable, I’m eager to work with you.

Both parties in Congress should know this. If a bill comes to my desk with earmarks inside, I will veto it. I will veto it.