Kanye West Uses His Platform as a BET Visionary Honoree to Discuss Race and Classism (Video)

After a very “humbling” introduction from Dame Dash, Kanye West was given the Visionary Award at the 2015 BET Honors, which aired earlier (2/23). When presented with the award, rather than talk about his accomplishments or the characteristics that make him a visionary, West took the opportunity to discuss Race and classism. He spoke on both themes from a very personal level, talking about his marriage with Kim Kardashian, their daughter and Kim’s experiences as a child.

Kanye also addressed some of the lingering conversation from some of his more prominent interviews of the last few years to clarify why, even with the success that he has achieved, he believes he still does not have the power to do all that he would like to do. Take a look at Dame Dash’s introduction, Kanye’s speech and the BET tribute video for him, featuring Jay Z, Common and Kendrick Lamar, below.

Dame Dash’s Introduction

Kanye’s Full Unedited Speech

The BET Honors Visionary Award Tribute to Kanye West ft Jay Z, Kendrick Lamar, Common and more

Related: Kanye West Says His Next Album Returns To Music, Opens Up About Class, Religion & Dame Dash (Video)