August Hip Hop Recognition

WHEREAS, on August 11th 1973 at a "Back To School Jam" held at the recreation room of 1520 Sedgwick Avenue, Bronx, NY, Clive "DJ Kool Herc" Campbell introduced his innovative style of music as a Disk Jockey and Master of Ceremony at a party organized by his sister Cindy Campbell, engaging the crowd with Rap music on the microphone, while partygoers known as B-Boys and B-Girls danced, this event which on this day joined together these elements of Music, Art, Fashion, and Dance introduced what is now known as Hip Hop; and

WHEREAS, from its humble beginnings in urban New York City, the music, lyricism, dance, fashion, and art of Hip Hop has become a vibrant culture now found in communities across America, and has become an international phenomenon; and

WHEREAS, the art and culture of Hip Hop is an American creation, and

WHEREAS, Hip-Hop artists, originally of African heritage, and supporters transcend many diverse ages, ethnicities, religions, geographical, political, social, and economic classes, which shows Hip Hop through art and culture is a virtual melting pot; and

WHEREAS, the art and culture of Hip Hop has been adapted in many innovative forms such as, inspirational, challenging, humorous, thought-provoking, and spiritual; and

WHEREAS, Hip Hop has provided opportunities for extracurricular activities, youth counseling, creative outlets, physical fitness, vocabulary exercises, poetry, analytical thinking, entertainment, employment, economic impact, and is now an annual worldwide billion dollars a year industry; and

WHEREAS, we recognize that if given support, the potential of Hip-Hop art, education, and culture may have positive effects on society; and

WHEREAS, during the month of August, cities and towns throughout the United States will observe Hip Hop Recognition Month, and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) members are encouraged to plan Hip-Hop related activities, and programming in conjunction with the original objective from the first Hip-Hop Jam to encourage Back To School activities for the youth, while also observing the contributions in the area of arts and culture.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the NAACP, will build partnerships with their local Hip- Hop entities and other members of the creative arts and music community in their cities and towns, and shall proclaim the month of August as Hip Hop Recognition Month, annually henceforth.