ROSEMONT, Ill. — Snoop Dogg has made an appearance at the Nation of Islam’s annual convention in a Chicago suburb.

Wearing sunglasses, a dark suit and a tie, the rapper spoke briefly in front of a crowd of thousands Sunday and praised the Chicago-based movement’s Minister Louis Farrakhan.

Farrakhan has long held relationships with famous rappers and hip-hop artists. Snoop, whose real name is Calvin Broadus, called himself the leader of the “hip-hop community” and says he’ll always seek out the minister.

Snoop gave a $1,000 donation to the Nation of Islam, then sat on stage and smiled and nodded as Farrakhan delivered a speech.

Rapper T.I. , whose real name is Clifford Harris, appeared via recorded video. He told followers that education is the key to success.