Update: Monica shares new photos of Lil Rock

Update: Monica has responded to fans and blog readers who don’t agree with the outfits Lil Rock is wearing. Please click the extended post to read her note (it’s long, but she explains her choice).

Originally posted April 27th: R&B songstress Monica Arnold, 26, has passed along to Sandra Rose some new photos of her son Rodney Ramone, aka Lil Rock, 23 months. In the second and third photos, Lil Rock wears Rocawear Boys Core "R" ShieldShort-Sleeve Tee in Stem ($22).

Thanks to CBB readers April and Jessie.

Click below for an additional photo.

I truly thank [my fans] for their love and support. It’s something that motivates me as a mother and as a person. Their love and support has carried me through a 13-year career, one child, and four albums.

And because of those that prefer not to hate, I’ll always make music and let them into my personal life. I was made aware of the few people that did not like his choice of attire. But who are we to judge? Truth be told: it should be respected that he’s on a major website wearing clothes that were created and made by Black men.

How do we constantly find negative when only positive exists? Is it a problem with the world or people in general? My son is being raised by strong black men, so therefore, when I dress him, I dress him as one. Not as a thug, not as a hoodlum.

How he dresses reflects nothing that I teach him. Morals and values are instilled in our home and in our lives. And for those that choose to speak negative, I simply must say take a look at self and dissect the problems within before you try to look at my life and dissect mine. My son is loved, blessed, favored by God and supported by many.

Thank you very much Sean "Puffy" Combs and the Rocafella family. We love you and will support you at all costs.

Comments

Aww! Now that is just too cute!!

- LaTonya on April 27th, 2007

he is just too cute for words!

- pink.lioness on April 27th, 2007

he is so cute

- jasmine on April 27th, 2007

Is there a reason that he needs to look like a two year old gangster?

- anonomous on April 27th, 2007

He’s a cute kid. I don’t know about many of you, but, isn’t the bandana too much. Looks like she wants to make him out to be a little gangster. The other picture seems more like an advertisement for the brand than to showcase him. I might be in the minority about this. Though, he is very cute and seems smart for his age.

- Hilda on April 27th, 2007

I think the gangster look on a 2 year old is far from cute, more like highly inappropriate.

- Amanda on April 27th, 2007

I think the gangsta look is TACKY. People should have more sense than to dress their kids like a little thug. I do not think he looks cute at all and that’s a pretty sad thing to do to your kid.

- Drama Mama on April 27th, 2007

Uh, not only is it tacky, but I find it totally unsafe for an active 23 month old to be wearing HUGE clothes. Think of all the possible ouchies that could happen. I’m not being paranoid, I have a 22 month old and I could totally see him strangling himself or getting caught in something.
He’s cute, outfit not.

- Liza on April 27th, 2007

I totally agree, I thought I was gonna be the only person to complain that she’s dressing him like a gangster. The kid is cute…but the clothes are too big…they take away from his cuteness.

- Alyssa on April 27th, 2007

I’m sure he doesn’t wear these outfits daily…it’s just for photographic purposes. This is the way she chooses to dress her son for pictures, it’s nothing wrong with that. I’m sure you have special outfits you put your child on when he/she takes pics.

He’s really cute, so it would be nice to see him in something other than urban wear.

- lakcarson on April 27th, 2007

Cute baby but I agree. The thug look is not right for a baby. And the clothes are bit over the top. But then again she is a singer herself, the babies nickname is “lil rock”, so there would be no surprise if this kid grew up to be a rapper.

- J.M. on April 27th, 2007

i agree with some of the other comments…why the gangster look??? I mean seriously. Why can’t they just dress the kid in regular jeans and a nice top? Style wise, I know its up to the parents, but the kid really looks like a little gang member!!

- tink1217 on April 27th, 2007

HATE, HATE, HATE the gangster look for little kids. In an already violent world we don’t need 23 month old gangsters.

- winecat on April 27th, 2007

I don’t see anything wrong with the first outfit. He looks cute in that first photo. And even in the two following that one. I’ll admit the clothes look big enough to fit a school-aged child, but the photo are set up like a photoshoot. At a photoshoot, anything goes…themes and all. These aren’t your typical candid at home photos, photos of them out and about, so I don’t see the problem.

And she doesn’t always dress him up like a “thug” or a “gangster”. I don’t recall him looking like a thug when he was a little baby. And besides that, I’m sure his father might have wanted to dress him like this for some shots and whatever. He is their child, after all.

Take away the bandanna, maybe change the over-sized clothes to a size that’s appropriate for his weight and height and I doubt there’d be many complaints about what he’s wearing.

Anyway, he’s a cute little boy, period.

- FC on April 27th, 2007

This is not the gangster look. It’s called hip hop/urban/street style. Not gangster. Tons of kids dress like this everyday and I hardly think they are sticking people up after school. Please. It’s offensive that people think that, but nothing really surprises me.

- melanie on April 27th, 2007

He looks ready to mug the kids on the playground for their juice boxes.

- Kristin on April 27th, 2007

I pretty much agree with FC. I’m guessing that most of you have never seen a real “thug” and howthey dress lol.

It’s sad that some of you think that clothing will determine how a child will act. What ever happened to not judging a book by it’s cover? For all you know this could be the sweetest little boy on the planet.

To me he is adorable! I love his first picture. I’m not a fan of the bandanna but I still think that he looks cute

- C on April 27th, 2007

Chill out, people! Such judgemental posts! It would be one thing if he was holding a gun in the pics, but he’s wearing Sean John clothing for chrissakes…BIG DEAL!

What a cute little face he’s got!

- Christiane F. on April 28th, 2007

Nice clothes but mom had to go ghetto with the gangsta look, poor kid wish he could have lost them bandanas, is he going down to get his ear pierced or a grill too?

- sarah on April 28th, 2007

I think his clothes are fine. The second shirt might be the wrong size, but I doubt he’s wearing clothes that don’t fit around town. It’s a photo shoot. There is nothing offensive on the clothing or anything. I think he’s adorable!

- Jessie on April 28th, 2007

Judgemental much? Really some of these comments are just ridiculous! He is a little kid and these are posed photos. As someone else said, he may not be dressed like this every day.

We should be glad that new photos were released of him. Seeing the babies of celebrities is not a right and why should celebrities release them if there is a negative reaction for something as simple as clothing choice? The clothes aren’t my taste either but I bet there have been a hundred times that the clothes I have dressed my baby in aren’t what others like. And the comment about clothing and violence – he is 23 months old…

There must be a lot of perfect parents out there if some are so quick to judge.

Gorgeous kid, by the way.

- Bella on April 28th, 2007

The clothes are HIDEOUS period, regardless of whether they are gangster or not. Poor kid. His hair is horrible also. What happened with letting little boys look like little boys, not mini versions of their dads (he must think it’s just brilliant…yeah, good one moron)

- Kazzie on April 28th, 2007

He is being raised by strong black men… Isn’t he mainly raised by his mother and father? She doesn’t seem very gender aware. Don’t like the gangsta-look either.

- Hea on April 28th, 2007

I just read Monica’s response to the ‘haters’ (i.e., apparently anyone who disagrees with her), and all I have to say is, a child shouldn’t need any special clothes to feel strong. It’s my opinion that most of the adult ‘gangstas’ out there must feel insecure about something in their lives, else why would they hide themselves behind a persona, behind all that ridiculous bling bling and their ‘posses’ and guns and expensive cars? My idea of any kind of ‘strong man’ (no matter what colour his skin is) is a man who feels empowered enough to be himself, not to dress according to his culture stereotype, and certainly not to dress in the same kind of clothes his mommy bought him when he was 2.

- Sabina on April 28th, 2007

IAWTC!!! Cute little boy but, the thug look has to go. That is all I could see when I looked at these pictures. Oversized clothes are so unsafe on young children.

- Karen on April 28th, 2007

his clothes are cute, why does it matter to you guys so much what he wears???? and why does urban wear have to be considered “Gangster” obviously some of us don’t get out much do we???? Most of this was for the purpose of the pictures, and if she chooses to dress him like this in regular everyday clothes then so be it, I think it’s cute. Just because your kids or husbands for that matter don’t wear these brands doesn’t mean others don’t or shouldn’t, my husband wears these brands all the time and yes he wears them baggy but he is far from a gangster, I just hate how people automatically lump urban wear and bandana into gangster, besides the bandanas are baby blue and lime green hardly the colors everyone is rocking in the streets.

- Sarah on April 28th, 2007

Well,in my personal opinion, this little boy has to be one of the cutest children I have EVER seen in my life, clothes and all. I am also a HUGE fan of his mother. What the child is dressed in does NOT mean that he is “gangster” or “ghetto” because those clothes are urban. Just because he isnt wearing khakies, a button down shirt, and a tacky vest doesn’t mean he is not dressed appropriatley. his clothes only add to his cutness. I am actually appalled, because i am black and i cant believe some of the stereotypes i am reading in some of these comments. just because he is wearing sean john and rocawear does NOT mean he’s a little “thug” or that he’s going to be a rapper when he grows up. Monica is a good woman and im sure that she will raise this adorable boy into a wonderful and civilized man.

(and by the way, he IS wearing his own size, the clothes are just made big like that)

- Quanisha on April 28th, 2007

I know that I shouldn’t be surprised by reading some of these comments, but it still surprised me a little anyhow.

There is a difference between ‘urban’ clothing, and ‘thug’ clothing. If you have ever actually been where the real ‘thugs’ are, there is a difference between what they are wearing, and what this child is wearing. Having baggy clothes and bandanas doesn’t automatically lable you as a ‘thug’ or a gand banger. I feel sad that is the sort of society that we live in, that assumptions are automatically made about things like that.

It seems as though so few people in this world are willing to think for themselves, but are quick to jump on the bandwagon of stereotypes and ideas of how things ‘should’ be, as opposed to how things really might be.

While this isn’t a style in which that I would dress my own son, he’s her boy, he does look cute, and I highly doubt that somehow this is going to make his future bleak somehow.

- erica on April 28th, 2007

I am black and our biggest problem is stereotyping. Having said that, I think kids should be kids. They should not wear and be burdened by stereotypes at a young age. I know many black people who do not have to dress like that to be respected or appear successful. The mere fact that this has caused a controversy in itself should show Monica that children are supposed to be just that-kids, not embodiments of stereotypes. Those clothes are associated with gangs and that is not hating but simple truth. Please let the child grow and dress them properly till they choose to be identified by what they wear.

- Clare King on April 28th, 2007

[i]it should be respected that he’s on a major website wearing clothes that were created and made by Black men.[/i]

I was okay with her statement until this…

So, if these clothes were made by white men, the comments would be warranted and it would be okay to diss the clothing? Come on…no matter WHO made the clothes or WHAT colour the designer is isn’t the issue. The issue is that the clothes look unsafe, too big and quite frankly, to most people not in the music business or entertainment business, bandanas tied like that represent GANGS.

If it were a caucasian baby up there wearing the same clothes, I still would have an issue with it. If it were a caucasian designer, I still would have issue with it. Give your head a shake Monica.

But whatever, she can dress her kid in feathers and a paper bag for all I care, after all it is HER kid, but I don’t like that she brought race into it. It has nothing to do with it.

- TracyG on April 28th, 2007

Why does she assume that everyone who is against her dressing her son that way is close-minded and ignorant?? She basically said she dresses him like that because he’s black and all black men dress that way. That’s not true. All black men who live in the ghetto, or wish they did, who have guns or sell drugs, or enjoy the glorification of all of that, dress that way. Why would you want that for your 2-year-old? Its sad when you use the color of your skin as an excuse to dress your child like someone who is such a bad example for who a child should want to grow up to be.

- Jennifer on April 28th, 2007

Oh c’mon, it’s just an outfit. How can “material” be judged? He’s too young and innocent to be classified as “thug” etc. I think he’s absolutely adorable and as long as he’s raised with good morals, let him wear what he wants!

- Denise Briggs on April 28th, 2007

Gosh! I thought these pictures were cute! I did not think of it negatively like many of the posts I’ve read so far. As for labeling clothes, “thug” or “gangster” look—I feel that’s very stereotypical. Remember that whole saying, “Don’t judge a book by it’s cover”??? I hope that any parents who may have said those comments aren’t passing on those prejudgements down to their children if they happen to see someone in that clothing style. I’m sure Monica is a great parent who will raise her son to grow into an amazing person!

- Janet on April 28th, 2007

oversized clothes are not the mark of a “gangster.” i don’t know from what suburb some of these comments came, but different groups of people dress their children differently. as for the boy’s discomfort or the potential danger of wearing bigger clothes, i hope none of those worried for his safety have put those god-awful satin scrunchies around their daughters’ heads. do you dress your daughters in mini skirts? do you dress them in bikinis? do you let them run around topless? of course you do! are you raising little prostitutes? of course you aren’t!

- jo on April 28th, 2007

Kristen that wasn’t a very nice thing to say! if you feel that his clothing is innappropriate, then there is much to say about your attitude dont you think?

- Callen on April 28th, 2007

The opportunities for black men in this world are far less then white men. I think that Monica is just supporting those who may have had to overcome what the majority of us can’t even come close to understanding. This is a child. Leave him and his mother alone. Clothes do not mean violence; maybe some of you need to take a cultural diversity class. Bandana’s don’t mean gangs, it is a style of urban culture. And as for safety, give me a break. How many of your kids play in the clothes you take their photos in? I don’t let me son roll around in the dirt in his Easter outfit. Obviously it was a picture, I’m sure he wears a smaller size shirt when playing and his pants are fine. I prefer my son to wear baggy pants over skinny jeans any day. My point- get a life! Worry about your own kids instead of others.

- Bri on April 28th, 2007

I would never doubt that Monica is raising this child with good morals. As a parent you should be. But I agree with the poster who said that this child is being stereotyped. Basically we live in a stereotypical society and we judge people by what they wear rather then who they are as a person. But that’s how society has become because people choose to put a label on THEMSELVES by how they dress and act. When people see clothes like that they associate it with being “thuggish” or “gangsta” because that’s how clothes like that have been stereotyped for years and years. So it’s only natural people would think of his look as being associated with that.

- J.M. on April 28th, 2007

“My son is being raised by strong black men, so therefore, when I dress him, I dress him as one. Not as a thug, not as a hoodlum.”

Something tells me Monica doesn’t get to the ghetto much. I may not be a strong black man but I’ve lived in 2 very real ghettos for most of my life now and sadly this year alone there have already been multiple teen & preteen children in the neighborhood killed in drive by shootings. All because of the “book cover” they were presenting to the world. The police have no leads or motives and all of the cases remain unsolved. You would think when innocent kids are killed people would give tips, but not in the ghetto because no one is a “snitch” here. Maybe if they were wearing pokemon t-shirts and normal jeans those kids would still be alive.

We shouldn’t judge people on the outside, but it’s an unavoidable human trait. It’s socially and I’m sure biologically ingrained in us for our survival. Sometimes you have to size up threats (not just people) as you see them and make the best judgement so as to not end up another statistic.

You may call me judgemental but if I see a grown man (any color) wearing those clothes walking towards me in a dark parking lot at night, I am getting in my car fast. I’m not going to ask him how are you this fine evening sir? If it looks like a duck….

- agtdonut on April 28th, 2007

I hardly think we are calling him a gangster. The look, whether urban/street wear, borders on gangster look. Of course, he is just a baby, it’s just the overdoing it part. And please people, do not make this a race issue. Never did we say anything about this child. Everyone has said he is just adorable and cute. It does not matter if this child was white,pink,blue,striped or polka dotted, it comes down to the same thing. It’s on the thuggish side. Thugs come in all races, so again, do not make this a race issue.

- Hilda on April 28th, 2007

Jo – I might let my little girl run around the yard without her top on, but I certainly wouldn’t post pictures of her topless on the Internet! It’s not the image of her that I would want to portray to millions of people!

I think if you were to take the bandana off of his head people wouldn’t have issues with the “thug” perception. Bandana’s have been outlawed in most public schools around the country because they are associated with gangs. When people see someone wearing a bandana on their head in that manner it definitely brings up thoughts of gangs. Maybe that is wrong, but it is just a fact. A few bad people, movies, music videos, etc have given us that perception.

Also, the safety concern isn’t really an issue. We dress our kids in all sorts of clothes that they wouldn’t normally wear in every day life just so we can get a cute picture. I doubt he is running around the playground in those baggy pants!

- Amy on April 28th, 2007

i was wondering about this boys hair, how long does it take to braid, and does it hurt?

i am ignorant with regards to my question, not judgmental…

- lala on April 28th, 2007

It’s called a photoshoot people! Get real. I seriously cannot believe the posts that I have read on here. And that is not ‘ghetto’, nor is it ‘thuggish’ or anything else along to that. You all have not seen any of the above in your face, okay? What you all are calling ghetto and whatnot? Its not anywhere near it! Its just a little boy in clothes! And those are his size! This is a baby site. And y’all are talking about how big his clothes are? Hello? Babies and toddles grow fast! Now unless he had a gun in his hand? Then yeah, I can see why you all are making a big deal out of it. But to say what y’all are saying? That is just too wrong!

- LaTonya on April 28th, 2007

He looks soooo CUTE! Really guys its a picture he probably doesnt always wear huge clothes w/ matching bandannas. That is her style for her son so you guys should accept that, its not like shes dressing your kid. Who are we to judge? His outfit probably costs more than some of your guys stuff so quit Hatin.

- CC on April 28th, 2007

I think he looks adorable. I agree with the one poster that said why does his urban wear have to make him look “gangster”. Maybe we should dress him a suit and tie and make him look like a “mobster”? I am sure no one would make that connection if he was wearing a suit and tie. You have 2 year old little girls walking around in bikinis. Does this make her a “hoochie”? It’s all a difference of opinion. Dress your kids how you choose and don’t judge others that choose differently then yourself. Again he looks adorable!!

- Cherrie on April 28th, 2007

He’s a cute kid, but I have to agree with the posters who commented on the “gangster” theme.

- TwinMom24 on April 28th, 2007

This is just a picture if you like it then great if not move on and stop being so judegmental.

- didi on April 28th, 2007

Amen to LaTonya. Thank you. He looks like the little boys I see in my neighborhood. Actually he has the cutest little face I’ve seen in a long time!

Lala – the amount of time it takes to braid hair in that style that depends on the skill of the person braiding, and the cooperation of the child. To me, and I’ve not braided a little boys’ hair (just girls with much longer hair) it looks like that took no more than an hour IF he sat there without taking a break. It is pretty tight the first day but it’s not what I’d call painful. Your scalp gets used to being tugged at when braided like that. The more often it’s done, the less it hurts.

People – baggy pants and RocaWear is not synonymous with gangstas and thugs. Even skaters wear their clothing huge.

- Victoria on April 28th, 2007

Peronally I think the outfit is rediculous for a 23 month old. I can’t imagine that it would be very easy for him to play at the playground in such a loose fitting outfit, but whatever, to each his own. That is just my opinion.

- AE on April 28th, 2007

Most of the comments are racist and
ignorant. Lil Rock is not wearing any gang colors. This is very sad… the year is 2007 and everyone does not have to look or dress alike. It is amazing to read the hurtful and racist post about a 23 month old looking like he’s ready to mug toddlers for their juice boxes. Now I know who listens to Don Imus. Did we not learn anything from Virginia Tech? Parents please stop teaching your children hatred. When you think like this, you pass your hatred on to your children through your actions and non actions. Most of the commenters may not believe that the comments are racist, but the comments are indeed racist and mean spirited. I have seen pictures of Lola Sheen on several sites wearing a bandana… but she is adorable and how cute… hmmm
Priscilla-Marie

- priscilla-marie on April 28th, 2007

Why don’t you dress your kids like how you choose and allow her to dress her kids how she chooses. Oh, and it’s urban wear, not gangster wear. Just because you want to be close-minded and judgemental does not mean that the rest of the world has to abide by your bigotry.

- Terri on April 28th, 2007

agreed agt. he may not grow up to be a gangsta, but as long as he looks like 1, he may be in big trouble. it’s no different from a small girl dressing like a teen girl. ppl get the wrong impression, older boys get the wrong impression, things could happen. how u dress is a reflection of ur personality, ur family & ur attitude to life. at 2, i think this lil’ boy is completely innocent, harmless & has no idea the controversy his look has created.

- ang on April 28th, 2007

Seriously he is a baby…There is no reason to believe that he is a thug…Monica can dress her baby anyway she wants…The baby is innocent and he doesn’t know anything about clothes and being a “thug”…People need to get a life instead of talking about an innocent baby!!

- Jacey on April 28th, 2007

He’s an adorable little boy and he’s dressed in a style I wouldn’t choose, but to each his own. I don’t think his clothing or style makes his mother a bad parent. I will state, however, that certain looks ARE banned by certain schools…and not just so-called “gang-related” styles. My children have always gone to public schools with strict dress codes. That means no spaghetti straps, tanks or tube tops, no tops that show cleavage, no shorts or skirts that are shorter than “so many” inches above the knee, no bandanas or hats of any kind, no mesh shirts for guys, no vulgar slogans on tee-shirts, no gang colors (and YES the schools do have sets of guidelines of what they say constitutes gang colors, based on incidents in the past that have been associated with gangs and/or fights or riots between groups.) My daughter was in a sorority in high school and we moved to an upscale neighborhood where most of the country music stars live near Nashville. She was SENT HOME to change shirts, for she was wearing (with jeans) a tee-shirt with her sorority’s Greek letters on it from her old school, because there was a “no Greek letters” policy. The reasons so many of these rules came about were because there had been incidents in the past between different groups and the school system wanted to avoid recurrent problems, thus the ban on certain styles. The way this little boy is dressed would not have been allowed on a school-age child where my kids went to school. And there was a diverse group of children in the schools with different backgrounds, ethnicities, religions, etc. That is not a judgment on my part; that is a fact straight from the Board of Education. I didn’t make those rules, but my children had to live by them because they were based, whether we agreed or not, on stereotypes and actual incidents of conflict according to the Board of Education.

- PinkRoses on April 28th, 2007

I don’t care if it called urbanwear, suburanwear or underwear…to me he looks silly. I have a 23 month old and I can’t imagine dressing him anything like this. I can see how it is a photoshoot…and this may be more of a ‘costume’. Sure we shouldn’t judge people by the outward appearance, but who doesn’t. Anyone who says they don’t, is lying. I don’t think what he is wearing is a healthy image to project. Especially when so many people (at least here) have such a negative view of it.

- Jo on April 28th, 2007

I know it’s easy to judge people by how they dress, we all do it, but it doesn’t mean you put them in a certain sterotype just because of the clothes they wear. Criminals can wear suits and ties, and look very professional, and people who are professional, with high paying jobs can wear urban clothing. The designers of these clothing lines are professional business men and were suits and ties 99% of the time, and have built business from the ground up, whether people agree with the things they promote and the types of lifestyles they lead or not, it’s really the attitude of the heart that matters anyway, that is what the Lord is interested in, so we should do likewise. Having said all that.

He IS a baby, and the responsibility to rear him belongs to his parents, and they have to make the decisions until he is old enough to make them for himself. Only God knows what kind of man he will grow up to be, but I hope and pray that he grows up to the person that God desires him to be. May he be as beautiful inside as he is outside, he has such a sweet little face, no matter what clothes he is wearing.

- mel on April 29th, 2007

*sigh* The way some folks carry on a person would think this was a brand-new point of contention between the young and the old(er).

Every generation seems to complain about the style of the younger generation – that’s the way it’s been for decades (perhaps longer). As much as the younger generation hates it, they turn around and inflict the same upon the next generation.

Consider this: Didn’t your own mother complain about the music you listened to, your choice of clothing, or the way you wore your hair?

In other words, it’s time to quit channeling Mother and GET OVER IT!

- mom4bob on April 29th, 2007

TracyG and agtdonut, I completely agree with you both. I don’t know what world Monica and everyone else who is crying about “judgemental people” live in, but here in the real world, Rodney would not be allowed to go to school, not even public school, dressed that way. Why? Because the outfit is inappropriate, it presents a bad image, it reinforces negative stereotypes, and in gang culture bandanas signify gang membership and violence. Those are the facts, whether people try to surgarcoat them or not, and I think the fact that Monica has dressed her son so stereotypically at such a young age is very sad. I find it especially disgusting that she chooses to make such an issue of the fact that the clothes were made by black men. Once again, the stereotype that “strong black men” dress like gangsters is perpetuated, which is a horrible image to present to young black children looking for role models. That has to be one of the lamest celebrity “excuses” I’ve ever read.
It drives me crazy when people try to argue that clothes don’t matter and it’s what’s on the inside that counts. Once again, I don’t know what world these people are living in, but in the real world, a persons’ first impression of someone else is formed within less than 5 seconds. How one dresses is a reflection of who they are, and therefore how a person dresses has a massive impact on who they are and how successful they become. People can deny that all they want, but that is reality. And in reality, if Rodney grows up dressing that way, people are going to run away.

- Lauren on April 29th, 2007

I just think the otherwise cute baby looks tacky. The clothes are clearly for the mother’s tastes… and that taste is glorifying a certain look that corresponds to a certain urban lifestyle… a lifestyle that is less intent on churning out college professors and doctors and more intent on churning out records and athletes.. I think it is destructive in our community…

I hope the little boy is being raised by ONE strong man… his father.

- Jayshaun on April 29th, 2007

I am happy that a celebrity released a photo of her son. The comments are totally unjust.
People relax and don’t fret over things you cannot change. Just because you do not come into contact with children that look or dress like Lil Roc,is no reason to post unkind comments. As long as people think inside of the box, racism is alive. Remember there are at least 31 flavors of ice cream. It is a tad bit sad to address a toddler as a thug and suggest he could not attend school, maybe not school in your area, but trust me he could attend school.

I have never been so offended. This is a child we are talking about.
Priscilla

- priscilla-marie on April 29th, 2007

I find it pretty amusing when adults dress up and pose children like adults. Like Angelina Jolie giving Maddox his first mohawk, Monica’s son Rodney did not choose these clothes and I doubt he chose the pose. BUT we all do this.

Parents who dress their sons in preppy gear (how many infants do you know who play golf yet they look like they just played 9 holes?) or dress their baby girls in Juicy Couture sweats or dress their newborns in jeans are “guilty” of doing the same thing Monica has done. How we dress our children mirrors how we imagine ourselves. I prefer to see children dressed like children, so I dress my daughter that way, but I do not deign to judge others for their choices.

- Danielle, Celebrity Baby Blog on April 29th, 2007

MONICA NEEDS TO GET OVER THIS WANNA SHOW IM GHETTO BULLSHIT. SHE IS SO MUCH BETTER THAN THAT BUT SHE CHOOSES TO BE ON THAT LEVEL.NOW SHES SHOWING IT WITH HER CHILD.PLEASE STOP! PEOPLE FROM THE REAL GHETTOS ARENT PROUD OF IT!

- WHATEVER on April 29th, 2007

The clothes… Fine… if its what u want.. But the bandanna is what makes the controversy. I do not see strong black men wearing these types of clothes. I do believe the clothes are the mothers choice. But if u are going to pick accessories that are going to cause people to speak out? why not just keep the pics to yourself? These types of clothes make some people think of ghetto and ganster.. This is a child. He is too innocent to be dressed this way. I see no harm in dressing my child up like a golfer. To me a golfer doesnt do drive by’s and carry guns. Which is exactly what i think of when i think of gansters. The child is adorable… i just wish the mother would of chosen to leave off the bandanna…

- Christina on April 30th, 2007

Monica – Lil Rock looks really cute and ignore the negative comment, which I totally agree with you. It’s unfortunate for people to pick on your child because of clothing…..The comments are bordering to racial, they would prefer Tommy or Calvin that would be acceptable.

- Michelle Nicole on April 30th, 2007

We need Al Sharpton and Quanell X right about now!

- Hilda on April 30th, 2007

It really is sad that people associate urban wear with gangsters or crimes. The problem – urbanwear is more closely associated with Blacks and golf wear is more closely associated with Whites – that’s where the racial issues lies. People can delude themselves all they want but they are really telling on themselves with these thinly veiled comments. If you can look a toddler and see a “gangster”, you really need to check yourselves. Imagine what you think when you see my 13 year old son or my father walking down the street…Sad.

- sweetdiva on April 30th, 2007

She need to start dressing him like a baby boy, not a gangster. but Monica is hood, so she can’t help it.

- gogo on April 30th, 2007

Seriously, most of these comments embarress me. I can’t believe that in the year 2007 your still trying to excuse the fact that there are stereotypes in America, calling them a fact of nature!!! This is exactly why racism will never be gone, because people like many of you are teaching it to your children without even realizing. If my son wants to wear a bandanna, SO WHAT! If my son wants to wear a dress, SO WHAT! He’s not throwing any gang signs or carrying a weapon. And I just wanted to point out to the mom with a child in a sorierty, the definition of a gang is a group of individuals with common interests and identities… so, your daughter wearing a shirt with the greek letters on it would be the same as a gang member wearing a bandana.

Most of you are teaching our future generations, why don’t we try to teach not to judge. Assume- makes an ass out of u and me…. right?

- Bri on April 30th, 2007

I have to chuckle a bit. This style of clothing may be labeled “black” or “urban”, but where I live in rural Canada, it’s all the little white boys dressing like that. I think its too much of a TV world to keep style exclusive to one population segment.

- Shmoo on April 30th, 2007

He’s a cute baby. I see nothing wrong with his clothes.

- Rebecca on April 30th, 2007

You say its us being narrow-minded and racist… When you see a movie about “ganstas” and ghetto, what exactly are the main characters wearing? Most of the time stuff very similar to this. Of course you can dress your child anyway you want! But after all the media and movies, dont be like “now where are they getting these ideas about being ghetto from”. What exactly would you guys say if i dressed my 2 year old as freddy kruger? Would you all still say aww? no alot of you would have mixed thoughts about it. Most saying a child like that shouldnt be dressed up that way. So what! In the movie he murdered tons of people but whats the difference between what she has him in? Ive seen so many ghetto movies where the murders wear this type of outfits. Whats the difference?

All im saying is dressing your child up this way so young is going to offend some people. I still dont think she should of posted the pictures out there for the world to see… Im not saying dress the child up in osh kosh but all you need to do is slap a “grill” and “some bling” on this child and he looks like a gansta that would ask you for ur purse. To me this is def not what a strong black man choses to wear.

- Christina on April 30th, 2007

Seriously, all of this dialogue over a set of photographs a mother chose to share? The boy looks healthy and happy. He’s not out perpetuating a “gangsta”/”thug” lifestyle, his outfits represent what his mother chose to put on him – clothes! NOTE: She did not slap “grillz” or “bling” on him, she simply put her child in several outfits – bandana included for a photoshoot, NOT SCHOOL! For all the uptight, “I’d never put my child in something like that” parents responding to this post, I hope you exert this much energy for causes that really matter – like child neglect or those little doggy leashes you drag your children along with when in public. There are too many other issues that require this much attention, debate, and action!!!

- Alicia on April 30th, 2007

Call it what you will, the child looks like a thug. Period. As one comment said, when you look at rap videos or movies portraying black men as “gangstas’, that is how they look. There is nothing in the way that child is dressed that signifies that he is being raised by strong black men. No more excuses. he is two years old for God’s sake

- saffron on April 30th, 2007

I wonder if Lil Rock was wearing a little Armani suit would people still say he was dressed like a thug or ganster? Tony Soprano and his gansters boys wear those all the time on TV. Just a thought.

- Veroncia on April 30th, 2007

the kid looks like a baby thug and yes i’m making that statement largely b/c of stereotypes in place that are associated with people (black or white) who wear clothes like that.

monica i understand that you are a mother and you are obligated to defend your decisions regarding your child, but come on — let’s get real. i have absolutely nothing against supporting black men, but i’ll tell you one thing: puffy’s kid does NOT dress like that, and i’m willing to bet that if jay-z had a child he wouldn’t dress his kid like that either.

- camille on April 30th, 2007

i think he looks like a big boy, and he looks cute, i dressed my son like that when he was 2 and no one, not my friends or my family thought he was dressed like a thug. my son is 6 now and he opens doors for females and uses his manners and i still dress him like that. just because he’s dressed in bigger clothes does not nor has it ever meant his mother is trying to make him into a thug. there are some children who was dressed in plaid shirts and khakis that are in gangs now. so the way you dress a child has nothing to do with how he is going to grow up, it’s how that child is.

- Sheena on April 30th, 2007

all those people who dont like Lil Rocks get up needs to SHUT DA FUCK UP! for real. raise your own kids and leave monica’s child alone. he dont look like a gangsta, thug, or a hudlum. i think he’s attire is appropriate. people always got to hate. why are you hating on a lil child for. a lil 2 year old at that. monica, rodney, and lil rock, do your thing and dont listen to these haters. 4 real. and if anybody has a problem with what i just said my number is 919 824 4809 and my name is Tim. please feel free to call me so i curse ya’ll ignorant asses out. real talk.

- Timothy Jennings on May 1st, 2007

This has nothing to do with black or white or who made the clothes. It’s about a 2yr old being dressed by someone to look like something he is clearly not. Not to mention the fact that, yes, that is what thugs wear….I have yet to see one dressed in anything else.

- Robin on May 1st, 2007

this lil boy is adorable and there is nothing wrong with what he is wearing.

- amana on May 1st, 2007

no body should judge her or her son for what he has on. none of you had to dress him so therefore everyone talking about him looking like a little “gangster” need to keep those comments to themselves becasue he’s just a child. what you have on doesn’t make you the type of person that you are. It’s a shame how some people can be so stupid sometimes and always quick to judge when they don’t know anything!

- Fed Up on May 1st, 2007

“puffy’s kid does NOT dress like that” I disagree with that statement, have you seen his kids lately? Also many of these statements that are being made. I mean, he’s just a kid, and if thats how she wants to dress him, so be it. I doubt she’s trying to send a message, or raise him to be a “gangbanger”. I’m just a teenager and I really didn’t think of how thugged out the little boy looked, I just thought he was cute. That’s basically all that matters. And what kind of crap is that, that people in the ghetto dress like that? I think there are little white kids in the suburbs who dress like that, please. All of you need to get your facts straight. I’m not praising the bandana, because as far as I’m concerened, they’re out of fashion, but still, all of you need to calm down, it’s really not that serious.

- Shakera on May 1st, 2007

Okay, we’ve established that the kid is totally cute but as we’ve all asked….why is a small child dressed in a bandana and baggy clothes? That is jail attire(baggy clothes started in prisons for men to get ‘easy access’ if you catch my drift). Even grown men shouldn’t wear it. The brand name isn’t the problem, it’s how our black men wear their clothes. I agree with Liza that wearing the baggy clothes is surely a safety risk for a young child. True, dress your child as you like but don’t have a negative stereo type placed on your child before he has a chance to speak for himself in this world. Oh yeah, that statement was definitely written by PR.

- Annie on May 1st, 2007

Okay you guys are so wack! So quick to brandish a stereotype just by clothing. My what small brains you’ve got. If she would have opted to dress her son from head to toe in what is donned as the prep look, then you all would be complaining about her ‘raising’ her son to be white!

When has the clothes you wear ever determined your outcome? Please go to heaven and tell my grandparents, that because they had 19 kids and all their kids had to share clothing, sometimes having to wear second-hand clothing, that all of their kids would be nothing but street peddlers, unlike the doctor’s, educators, preachers, carpenters, college graduates and service men and women they’ve grown to be. Do that for me.

It is a photo shoot, and if those of you that have seen previous pictures from previous photo shoots that he has had, then you would know that he isn’t always dressed this way. But I guess it really wouldn’t matter because you all have your own twisted opinions on how you view the world. As it was stated, if clothes makes the person, then I feel so sorry for most of you, because I’m pretty sure when most of you dress up, you look like what stinks up his diapers!

- Infamousentity on May 1st, 2007

Truthfully i just think its sad that so many people especially other mothers have time or have taken the time to speak negatively about an innocent 2 yr old. He’s a baby in clothes. Why couldnt people just look at the pictures and move on? However monica chooses to raise her son, dress him, feed him, etc is none of anyone’s business. Imagine u as a mother share pics of ur beautiful baby to the world and they chastise u about something so minor. Live and let live…”If you dont have anything nice to say dont say it at all.”…

- Rae on May 1st, 2007

In my opininon he is very cute and adorable. Everyone has different styles, of course everybody wont like this photo because everyone doesnt dress the same way.Some people dress thier kids in a button down shirt, with a vest or a sweater wrapped round the neck and some jeans and others dress thier kids like him in the photos there is absolutely nothing wrong with that, so who are we to judge. The way she chooses to dress her son is her preference, no one should care about what her son is wearing, how he’s wearing it, and what size it is. This is just a little boy he doesnt even know the meaning of “thug” or “gangsta”. It seems to me that the little boy is very happy and thats all tht matters. As long as he knows whats right and whats wrong and what to do and what not to do its nobodies business about he’s clothes. There are much worser things to be worried about than a cute little boy being dressed up in clothes that his mother feels comfortable and appropriate for him to wear.

- amesha on May 1st, 2007

This is for all those who are saying rodney wouldnt be allowed in school for wearing this type of clothing: first of all we know you goes had to be born in the 1950′s because nowadays u can practically wear what u want and not be told anything, especially where i’m from (new orleans). Secondly he is only 23mths he doesn’t even know how to spell school and by the time he is ready to go to school he will probably be able to go naked if he wanted to with the society we have. So lets stay on subject here and cut the school and uneccessary bs out, which is basically all of it.

- amesha on May 2nd, 2007

People are insinuating Monica’s a bad mom, due to a couple outfits, unfair judgement. A thug is one who lack morals, respect, and discipline. He may rob, kill, or rape another. Designers don’t possess the power to create an article of clothing that makes a person do any of the above. Our actions usually reflect our teachings, via enviromental or up-bringing, not clothing. Ultimately it’s Monica child, so her choice.Great Album!

- Donna on May 2nd, 2007

I find it ironically hysterical that people are up in arms asking “why are yall talking about the way he’s dressed ? its up to the parents. Why cant you just move on? blah blah blah”…This is a blog.
One should not willingly post pics on a blog if they dont expect or even want them to be dissected and discussed.
And as far as this “How he dresses reflects nothing that I teach him.” theory goes, its illogical. How your child dresses DIRECTLY reflects what you teach them….if Im seen on the corner only wearing some draws, red pumps, and a bra – and Im not grown – it pretty much reflects how I’m being raised.
and shoot…..maybe even if i AM grown…
Also think its funny how , in her opinion,, this is how strong men dress. The company who she is supporting owners don’t dress like this. When Puffy or Jay are making them financial moves please believe they show up in a suit and tie.

- Kickin'it on May 2nd, 2007

I think Rodeny is a very handsome kid and i dress my son in similar attire. Clothes don’t make a person, especially a child. Come on people, let’s not be so ignorant and judgemental. Monica, do ya thing girl and let the hatas be your motivators.

- Michelle on May 5th, 2007

Bush (former & current President & FL Governor) and Cheney wear suits and ties everyday. And THEY are the biggest Thugs and Gangsters of the 21st century. This child has not been responsible for the death of thousands, nor has he stolen money from millions of people but Bush & Cheney have… that’s what thugs and gangster do.

Let’s not be so superficial and please stop perpetuating stereotypes. It’s not your clothes but your actions that make you a gangster/thug.

- Bbw on May 5th, 2007

All you haters fall back off of Monica and Lil Rock…Monica has the right to dress her son the way she wants,and through the influence of the wonderful men he’s around on the regular.Monica your a great mother and keep doing you..and making Lil Rock look cuter than he already is.To me she’s doing her job as a mother and satisfying Lil Rock.So therefore all the stupid ass people that feels she’s dressing him as a thug do me,Monica and her family a favor and shut the hell up.Keep there names out of your mouth if you don’t have anything positive to say.
Much love Monica&family!Your Fan Melira.

- Melira on May 14th, 2007

he is so cute and i love what he is wearing if i were to ever have a son i know my boyfriend would dress him in a very simular style to rodney jr

- alesha on May 18th, 2007

Its always going to be someone who does not like the way your dressing your child. But to address him as being a thug/gangsta was totally disrespectful. To the little girl who posted that comment you need to take a step back and think before you talk. If your so worried about the way he’s dressing then why don’t you buy his clothes! But oh! Your not his mother, only his mother has the right to decide what he should and should not wear. If you haven’t been a follower of Monica’s music then you really need to step back. Like my mother always told us don’t judge a book by its cover. You little kids that are judging her, really need to take a look at yourself! And it all boils down to is that your hating on him because you can’t dress your kids in nice clothing. So I would think that you would spend your free time thinking about your own kids instead of thinking about other peoples kids. Get a job or find another activity if you don’t have anything else better to do. May GOD bless you haters!

- Cece Blackwell on May 23rd, 2007

that outfit is cute and he is cute in it. dont mind them hatez cus that aint got it like that. continue doing what you do girl!!

- sharonda on May 24th, 2007

i think he looks cute, monica continue doing your thing……………….

- Stacey on May 28th, 2007

Personally I think the photos of your son are beautiful, clothing and all! Monica, you’ve been in the public light long enough to know that you are going to have your critics, both positives and negatives. I say continue to do what you do – you are beautiful beyond words, and remarkably talented. Continue to surround yourself with positive people; and, I truly wish you continued happiness and success.

- Mary on October 17th, 2007

I FEEL EVERYONE HAS THE RIGHT TO GIVE THEIR OPINION BUT THATS WHERE IT ENDS AS “YOUR OPINION” MONICA AND ROCKY ARE THE PARENTS OF ROCKY JR. AND AS LONG AS HE IS LOVED AND CARED FOR, AND TAUGHT THE RIGHTS AND WRONGS IN LIFE. WHO ARE YOU TO PASS JUDGEMENT ON HER. MONICA I THINK YOU ARE A GREAT ROLE MODEL FOR THE FACT THAT YOU ARE 100% REAL. EVERYTHING ABOUT YOU IS REAL NOTHING IS HIDDEN AND NOTHING IS PHONEY. KEEP DOING YOUR THING AND RAISE “YOUR” CHILD THE BEST YOU KNOW HOW. AND DONT FORGET WHEN THERE ARE NO MORE HATERS THEN YOU OBIVIOUSLY MUST BE DOING SOMETHING WRONG… P.S. HATERS: COME UP WITH YOUR ON OPINION AND STOP JUMPING ON THE BANWAGON….. ~ MIAMI, FL PRINCESS

- Nikki on February 20th, 2008

All of you that has a problem with how he is dressed just seems jealous to me that you maybe cannot afford to dress your kids the same way. This is a photo shoot and there is a huge possibility that he may not dress this way everyday. Many kids wear this hip hop style. I’m an Atlanta native and a female and dress this way at times. However, I have a bachelors degree and not gonna go and rob anyone. Real thugs do not dress this way, they dress “thiggish”. His pants are not sagging and girls wear bandannas to match their clothes all the time. So what if he has on one? You people should losen up and realize that this is not 1975 where people dressed their kids in Easter suits to take pictures. It’s all about style now and obviously Monica has some and apparently many of you haters do not! Get a life…

- ATL Mommy on March 4th, 2008

i find the comments that some have made to be utterly ridiculous! the way monica chooses to dress her child is her BUSINESS!!! why is it called “gangster” when a minority does something or dresses in a certain way, but when little girls in pageants dress in fancy clothes and makeup it’s considered cute? i think that people should mind their own damn business because the issue at hand ia not what he’s wearing but merely because of his skin color it’s a problem, i say big ups to all of monica and rock’s haters!!!! for people who don’t understand “slang” that means keep hatin!! i can’t believe here it is 2008 and racism and discrimination still exists you people should be ashamed of yourselves, the nerve to say such ignorant comments about an innocent child is absurd. it sickens me to know that people still can place judgement on one another and not know anything about that person, for all the christians out there i thought it says in the bible “thou shall not judge” isnt that what you people are doing???

- liberated woman 08 on April 2nd, 2008

He looks adorable!! personally I find nothing cuter than a little kid in clothes too big for him. reminds me of playing dress up… just not in the same style. I noticed none of the negative comments started until one person mentioned the clothes… then everyone joined in with the negativity of how he’s dressed. Talk about following the crowd. most of you probably just said what you did ’cause you read all the other comments. Monica, dress your kid how you like. He looks adorable. If we are going to judge it shouldn’t be on something as dumb as clothes.

- Aubrey on April 7th, 2008