How do feel about this?

I am sick as well.

You are right Bro Stewart, that is why UGLE can't sue every irregular masonic organization that pops up. i.e. Grand Orient of the United States of America, Nation 1613, etc.

S&F,
-Bro Vick

I am not a Mason as of yet. But I have read some books about Freemasonry, and according to what I've read, people who claim to be Freemasons are "Cowans", if I stand correct. However, I feel that this is not right by way of them profiting of something that isn't theirs; especially from a Non-profit organization, such as this Fraternity. I have heard the rap song. I would not want an organization, fraternity, club or anything in that nature, to be represented in such a way with vulgar/ unprofessional language and immoral motives. I would also not want to be represented by someone who may possibly be immoral in anyway who would be wearing my insignia. How would it look to other people, for example, someone to drink and drive, got into a fatal collision while the person at fault was wearing your symbol or insignia? Then later, the family member of the deceased sees someone else wearing the same symbol or insignia. Some people might take it too far, and would tarnish what you stand for. I know that there are loop holes that people find to use for their benefit as well as there are loop holes for it to be stopped. Take for example this situation, the S&C isn't trademarked so the artists uses that for an advantage. The Fraternity can find something within that S&C or whatever symbol he uses, to use against him, such as as him using the name itself, Freemasonry, in his merchandise....whatever the case may be. Like I said, I am not a Freemason but I do find the situation unacceptable by all means. Thanks.

http://www.elyricsworld.com/free_mason_(feat_jay-z)_lyrics_rick_ross.html

These are the lyrics to the song. I looked them up after i read this thread.

http://freemasonry.bcy.ca/grandlodge/trademark.html
The Square and Compasses IS trademarked!! Jay-Z either Has permission to use it from some Grand lodge that is part of the claim or he is subject to a lawsuit. The Grand Master of Texas masons could feel free to file the cease and decist order on production, and any profits from the sale of these items could be claimed. WE as Texas masons can use the symbol for our own use, or to make some decals for our friends but if we want to make t-shirts or stickers and sell them for profit we need permission, which can be obtained from the Grand Secretary, and I assure you they do want their cut.

THE SQUARE AND COMPASSES IMAGE IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK


. . . . at least in some jurisdictions.



Duh. Sorry Brother Barry, didn't see your link when I posted. You only "scooped" me by one year!

Bro.BruceBenjamin said:

I have been following all the 'hype' on Jay-Z and Nas since Jay-Z and Rick Ross released the song entitled "Free Mason." Jay-Z whose real name is Shawn Carter according to his own words is not a free mason. The media have created all the hype around Jay-Z being in the illuminati and him being a devil worshipper all of which is just hype.

One thing is certin he is a smart business man. All of the attention has done one thing for his music and clothing line and that is increase sales. Like it or not Jay-Z is drawing attention to freemasonry.

The question is how are we as freemasons going to respond?

Click to expand...

I certainly agree he's a good businessman. But his choice and use of the S & C shows a lack of imagination.
Surely his graphics designer(s) could do better.

When conspiracy and mystery writers can think of nothing or no one on their own they always fall back on the freemasons.
Yes the freemasons have it all, the rich and famous, the notable, the powerful, the closed doors, the secret ceremonies and some really cool symbols. They're perfect for any type of suspense, mystery or intrigue. And out comes another book or movie.
Oh well, at least we're still around.

Unfortunately Jay-Z has become a member of the "can't come up with anything else" crowd.

Just my humble opinion.