Well it looks like all the hullabaloo got Russell Simmons uncomfortable to make a statement on behalf of the woman-beating half-pint, Lil Reese. This is good news and bad news. The good news is that all the uproar, complaining, blogging and petitioning has gotten his attention. The bad news is that it might not be enough.

The video that came out last week of Lil Reese beating up a young woman had me sick to my stomach. We know that physical abuse of women is rampant in our community, but the video really bothered me. Not just because the attacker was so young, but because it reminded me of the failed opportunity that this young artist is wasting. I have always believed that artists and entertainers have gifts that can uplift the consciousness of millions of people around the world. We have seen that time and time again. However, the actions of Lil Reese and his subsequent “apology” cause me great concern because he thinks that will be enough. He will have to do much more work to rid himself of his violent behavior.

Then he goes on..

I am certainly a believer in compassion and will do everything I can to uplift Lil Reese, in private. But let me very clear, publicly, we must do better.

WTF does that even mean, man???!! You are going to “uplift” Lil Reese and still keep him on your roster? Will you offer counseling to the woman who face he stomped? Will you take away his driving privileges for a month, Daddy Russ, because you’re about as close as Lil Reese will ever have of a father figure.

I also wonder what “failed opportunity” he means, don’t you? That will remain to be seen. What the label should have done is dragged Lil Reese’s raggedy ass into Global Grind and make his (most likely illiterate) ass write an apology blog because that tripe on Twitter ain’t gonna cut it..

From a public relations standpoint, this is a mini victory for our side. After the first bit of bat shit piece, Russell Simmons felt the pinch enough to clean up and cover. Trust me on this–a man in his position doesn’t do this for no reason. You best believe they have a crisis management team giving him some pointers.

If Mr. Simmons really wants us to believe he was truly sickened by Lil Reese stomping on the head of a woman who gave him absolutely no provocation, he needs to be a bit more specific on what consequences and penalties that (c)rapper will get. Because at this point, Russell is right. Sorry isn’t enough.

If you haven’t yet, sign the petition against Lil Reese and Def Jam records.

P.S. Don’t ever, EVER let someone tell you it’s not worth the fight. It is, even if you don’t win each battle.