Moore and Scott join controversial podcast

Baltimore's governor and mayor are scheduled to appear Friday on a live podcast hosted by rappers Fat Joe and Jadakiss at Pier Six Pavilion, billed as a conversation about art, culture, and economic growth.

Fat Joe under fire for using slur

The Puerto Rican and Cuban rapper drew criticism after using the N-word on The Joe Budden Podcast this month and describing himself as 'the blackest.' He has faced similar criticism throughout his career.

Debate over who can use the word

Marc Lamont Hill, a co-host on The Joe Budden Podcast, said only Black people should use the word and Fat Joe is not Black. The conversation spread across podcasts, YouTube, social media, and radio.

“only Black people should use the word and Fat Joe is not Black”

Fat Joe defends his background

Fat Joe, who grew up in public housing in New York's Morrisania neighborhood, doubled down on his use of the word, saying he's from the 'block that invented hip-hop' and noting his Afro-Cuban heritage.

“My dad is Afro Cuban i love this guy”

Community voices split on the issue

Dayvon Love, director of public policy for Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle, said the question of who is Black and can use the N-word is complex with reasonable perspectives on all sides, though much debate is 'extremely ill-informed.'

“extremely ill-informed”

Some see cultural context differently

Catalina Byrd, a West Baltimore Republican who ran for mayor twice, said it's common in New York for groups to be 'mixed and mingled' and share vernacular. She doesn't believe the podcast will accomplish much on this topic.

“mixed and mingled and share each other's vernacular”

Moore and Scott stay silent on timing

Spokespeople for Moore and Scott did not respond to questions about the event. Both leaders have used podcasts and media appearances to reach new audiences and raise their national profiles.