Rapper T.I. is the cover subject of Vibe’s year-end issue with the tagline, “T.I. Wants You Back.” The ‘I’m Flexin” artist discusses a number of topics with journalist Bonsu Thompson, including his time in prison, Osama Bin Laden and his beloved wife Tameka “Tiny” Cottle. But what’s got the tabloid media riled up is Tip’s supposed quotes about gay people.

In an excerpt that was posted on Vibe’s website, T.I. addresses the issue of gay rights in America. While the rapper is supportive of anyone’s sexual preference, he feels that people are entitled to their opinions — under the First Amendment — on the issue of gay rights. “Man, I will say this, the funniest joke I ever heard Tracy [Morgan] say during a stand-up was, ‘C’mon man, I think gay people are too sensitive. If you can take a d–k, you can take a joke.’ [Cracks up laughing.] That shit was funny to me. And it’s kind of true,” he says.

He goes on further and adds: “They’re like,‘If you have an opinion against us, we’re gonna shut you down.’ That’s not American. If you’re gay you should have the right to be gay in peace, and if you’re against it you should have the right to be against it in peace.”

T.I.’s statements will no doubt ruffled a few feathers in the LGBT community. Regardless of what you feel about a person’s lifestyle or sexuality, there’s no reason why they shouldn’t be allow the same equality and civil rights as straight people. As far as gay people being oversensitive, as long as there are hate crimes being committed against gays and lesbians, being “less sensitive” is not an option for them.

While we don’t believe T.I. was being homophobic with his comments, he definitely needs to be more informational about the issue. However, we will remain objective, because it was only an excerpt from the interview.

Vibe’s December 2011/ January 2012 issue will hit newsstands this week.

What do you think about T.I.’s statements in the Vibe article? Tell us in the comments below.

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