Hip Hop Awareness & Appreciation Week - Social Justice and Hip Hop

Inside a centrally-located, high traffic area such as the Native American Cultural Center, a featured guest speaker will lead attendees in a substantive conversation about the perceived connection between Hip Hop culture and criminal justice. At the event, student "crews" will distribute information about the MC showcase taking place that Thursday, 4/23/14. Our Guest Speaker will be Professor Maniglia from NAU’s Criminology & Criminal Justice (CCJ) program, as she is currently teaching a Social Justice & Hip Hop course that has no less than 75 students!

“Knowledge of Self” is the element that refers to Hip Hop’s connection with substantive issues of social justice. Many believe that the rap videos they see on TV which appear to glorify material acquisition and misogyny are representative of Hip Hop. They are mistaken. Hip Hop comes from a tradition of marginalized black and brown poets from the inner city environs of New York and has maintained its tradition of speaking out for those who are disaffected by shortcomings in our larger social systems. Hip Hop has not only provided a voice for such insightful expression, but has also offered inspiration for those wishing to improve their local communities.

Panelists:

Opening Prayer/Blessing from Elders: Marina Xoc Castillo de Vasquez

feat. Panelists:

Education: Attorney Sharon Fernandes
Criminality: Dr. Rebecca Maniglia, NAU Criminal Justice
Community: Mike 360
Economy: Jeronimo Vasquez

Moderated by: Dr. Miguel Vasquez, NAU Anthropology