"Everybody Say NO..."

"Everybody say NO..."

Dear A.R.M.Y., today we have something a little more serious to talk about. And it's a delicate subject. But one that we think really has to be addressed, not only for our boys, but the long term ramifications, as well.

While we want to always be grateful for any accolades BTS is given, the process being used by MTv this year is not actually an accolade but a segregation. It's xenophobia or at its base, racism. Those are strong words to be used at any time, but it really is the basis of what MTV has done by creating a "kpop" category. And this is the only way they'll award Korean groups?

BTS stands for the exact opposite of what MTv is doing with this category. BTS and ARMY are about breaking down barriers, overcoming prejudices. South Korean President Moon Jae In said, "At the very heart of BTS' outstanding dancing and singing is sincerity. This magical power turns grief into hope and differences into similarity. Each of the seven members sings in a way that is true to himself and the life he wants to live. Their melody and lyrics transcend regional borders, language, culture, and institutions." If only MTv could understand. They are merely a tv channel, that is discriminating against an entire population, again. Whether at the behest of advertisers or corporate heads, it's not important. What is important is that hopefully, we can let them know this was never ok.

This may all sound a bit grandiose, but if you look around, we're fighting battles for equality and humanity all over the world. And one way to silence these voices is to silence BTS. ARMY, we've done it until now and we'll continue to stand with them and fight for each others' dreams.

Write to MTv. Maybe it's a short, appropriate tweet on twitter, a letter to them, or an email, let's voice this. Let them know our disagreement with what they're perpetuating. This is not okay in one country, or one awards show. Meanwhile, we're watching for other ways to speak out against acknowledging these awards in any way. A surefire bet to "help them change their minds" is voting overwhelmingly for BTS's nominations in all categories (as always). But PLEASE don't watch the actual show. Those ratings are what they actually want, so even pass it along to your friends how they could help. Let's not let this happen on our watch, Army!

Let us know if there any other good options you've seen, please. And we'll definitely pass it along.

Team Karamel

Twitter page: @VMAS

Email: vh1communications@viacom.com

Mail: Viacom Inc. - MTV Networks (Main Office)

New York, MY

1515 Broadway

New York, NY 10036