Common came under attack from conservative media outlets this week after he was booked to perform at the White House. Fox News and former Alaska governor Sarah Palin criticized First Lady Michelle Obama’s decision to include him in a poetry reading, citing some of his past lyrics and labeling him “vile.” But despite the controversy, the Chicago rapper’s invitation stood.

“Politics is politics and everyone is entitled to their own opinion, I respect that,” wrote Common, who’s been a longtime supporter of President Obama. “The one thing that shouldn’t be questioned is my support for the police officers and troops that protect us every day. Peace yall!”

Dressed in a beige suit, he performed a spoken word piece with a DJ in celebration of American poetry and prose. “Thank you and God bless. I appreciate being here,” a grateful Common told the audience.