UPDATE: Nas, along with many other recipients, received their their metals. Check the gallery at the top.

ORIGINAL:

Nasir “Nas” Jones is more than just a dope lyricist. Throughout his musical career, the 42-year-old artist has also been an advocate for African Americans and the civil rights movement; an advocacy that is being recognized by Harvard University.

Today, Sept. 30th, the Ivy League university will honor Nas with the 2015 W.E.B. Du Bois Medal, an honor “awarded to individuals in the U.S. and across the globe in recognition of their contributions to African American culture and the life of the mind,” according to the W.E.B. Du Bois Institute.

Find out more after the jump.

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The ceremony, which will take place at the Hutchins Center, can be viewed via live stream at 4 p.m. ET.

Other recipients for this year’s award includes Muhammad Ali, former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, and founder of the Children’s Defense Fund; Marian Wright Edelman.

Hit up the gallery for more of Nas, the Illest.

Back in 2013, Harvard University had created a hip-hop fellowship in Nas’ name. “[Nas] has tackled both intense political issues and hardcore street topics. In doing so, he has inspired a generation,” says Def Jam. “This Fellowship honors his work while supporting the work of others. Fellows are chosen by a selection committee comprising members of the Harvard University faculty.”

Keep up the inspiring work, Nas. I’m here for all of it.

SOURCE: AP