The Miami Beach Commission has rescinded the proclamation declaring October 13, 2016, as “Sean Diddy Combs Day.” This decision follows serious allegations and investigations involving the hip-hop mogul. Diddy’s South Beach mansion was recently searched as part of a federal sex-trafficking investigation, intensifying the scrutiny surrounding him.
The honor was initially bestowed upon Diddy in 2016 during the Revolt Music Conference, led by then-Mayor Philip Levine and the City Commission. The move to revoke the recognition is primarily driven by a graphic video from 2016 that surfaced, showing Diddy allegedly assaulting his former girlfriend, Cassie Ventura. In response to the controversy, Diddy has issued an apology for his actions in the video.
The Miami Beach Commission released a statement emphasizing that the decision aligns with the city’s commitment to safety, community well-being, and respect. They stated, “Recognizing October 13, 2016, as ‘Sean Diddy Combs Day’ is no longer in harmony with the City’s values.”
This revocation is not an isolated incident. In recent months, several institutions have withdrawn honorary recognitions previously awarded to Diddy. In May, Diddy was asked to return an honorary key to the city of New York, an accolade he received in 2023 for his contributions to music. Mayor Eric Adams requested the return, condemning Diddy’s actions as seen in the leaked video.
Additionally, Howard University in Washington D.C. has revoked Diddy’s honorary degree and terminated a $1 million donation agreement made by the Sean Combs Foundation in 2023, according to their collegiate newspaper, The Hilltop.
These actions reflect a broader movement to reassess and revoke honors in light of serious allegations and behaviors that conflict with the values of the awarding institutions.