Chicago charity renamed over flap with Kanye West

A Chicago-based nonprofit originally named after Kanye West's late mother now has a new name: Art of Culture Inc.

The name change comes in the wake of recent comments from the rapper, who, among things, backed President Donald Trump in a series of tweets in April and, days later, said slavery was a choice during an appearance on "TMZ Live."

"Over the last few months, due to Mr. West's controversial public political statements, the organization received communications of concern from sponsors, foundations and supporters," officials with the non-profit said in a statement Tuesday.

The former Donda House was named after the rapper's mother, Chicago State University professor Donda West. It was founded seven years ago by former Chicago Public Schools teacher Donnie Smith and Chicago native Rhymefest, whose real name is Che Smith.

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