THE SANKOFA LECTURE SERIES
&
HIP-HOP CULTURAL LITERACY CONFERENCE
OCTOBER 3 - 5, 2012
“We’re building bridges, not walls”
The Department of African and African American Studies offers an interdisciplinary field of study, which provides students with opportunities to pursue courses with an African, Caribbean, and African American focus.
In fulfilling this objective, the department recognizes the natural connection between Africans, African Americans, and the rest of the African Diaspora. The department strives to remove the distortions about Africa and
Black peoples through courses that highlight the rich heritage, histories, achievements as well as cultural contributions of the people of African descent to human civilization. These course offerings enable students to acquire skills, sensitivities, and knowledge that enhance their functioning more intelligently in a diverse society.
The department‘s aim, then, is to develop and produce scholars committed to academic excellence and social
responsibility in the United States who are prepared to build bridges with other cultural groups in the global
space. The department strives through its various programs (i.e., study abroad, domestic field experiences, internships, and annual Black World Conference) to enhance Metropolitan State University of Denver‘s mission
of fostering diversity and mutual respect inside as well as outside the campus community.
Trained in traditional areas and in African American Studies, the faculty of the department bring not only a
breadth and depth of knowledge and understanding of African, Caribbean, and African American Studies to
the university, but also a demonstrated theoretical and practical awareness of their role in the pursuit of a wellrounded education. Faculty in the department are committed to disseminating accurate information, encouraging creative and critical thinking, and fostering the pursuit of academic rigor. The professional development
activities of the faculty are an extension of the department‘s instructional program, and reflect not only the faculty‘s scholarly and activist interests, but also their commitment to providing information and interpretations
significant to African people and the larger society.
In addition to the comprehensiveness of its academic program, the department sponsors a full calendar of
events in celebration of African American History Month during February, and sponsors and/or co-sponsors
other cultural programs throughout the academic year. Such programming provides another opportunity for the
department to enhance its instructional program. Community service is another avenue by which the faculty of
the department extend their expertise, and at the same time enhance the lives of the people it serves. The department offers a high-quality Bachelor‘s degree program as well as a minor.
To declare African and African American Studies as a major or minor complete the Major/Minor Declaration Form which is available at the AAS Administrative Office, or from the Academic Advising Center.
Please bring a copy of your most current CAPP Report to all scheduled advising appointments. To request a
copy please Email your name, 900#, advisor‘s name, and the date needed to dvelarde@mscd.edu.
To meet with an AAS advisor please stop by during faculty office hours or e-mail the individual advisor
to request an appointment.
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In its nearly fifty-year existence as a field, Africana Studies has articulated the need for
critical pedagogy and scholarship that interrogate the lived experiences of underrepresented and marginalized communities worldwide. As a result, the field embraces Sankofic approaches—drawing from the past in an effort to move forward with integrity into the future. Engaged artists, scholars, and activists have begun exploring the ways
in which Hip-Hop Culture embraces a Sankofic tradition as a multidimensional and transnational cultural form. In doing so, Hip-Hop becomes conversant with the interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary foundations of Africana Studies.
The Department of African and African American Studies at MSU Denver is proud to take
the lead once again this year in bringing the Sankofa Lecture Series and Hip-Hop Cultural
Literacy Conference to the Auraria and greater Denver communities. This year's featured
speaker is none other than the pioneering cultural artist, MC Lyte. As the incredibly long
list of cosponsors demonstrates, Hip-Hop Culture has the power to build powerful bridges
across multiple institutional lines. Thank you everyone!
Dr. Winston Grady-Willis
Professor & Chair
Department of African and African American Studies
“Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and cannot remain silent”
~ Victor Hugo
The words of Hugo are demonstrative of the infectious influence of Hip-Hop Culture in
America and throughout the world. Key elements of Hip-Hop that move beyond music
have sparked a shift in the way we think, communicate, examine historical milestones,
develop identity, shape public policy, behave as consumers, and construct social institutions. Consequently, a phenomenon of this magnitude necessitates critical analysis and
discovery within traditional paradigms of academia. I am delighted to serve as Chair of
the inaugural Hip-Hop Cultural Literacy Conference. I am also grateful to the number of
community activists, entrepreneurs, scholars, educators, elders, and students who have
agreed to share their wealth of knowledge and experiences -- which situates the culture of Hip-Hop as a multidisciplinary approach for teaching, research, and social engagement that builds bridges instead of walls. This philosophical
paradigm is the blueprint of Hip-Hop and will remain a formidable characteristic of the culture.
Dr. B. Afeni McNeely Cobham (Dr. MC)
Faculty
Department of African and African American Studies
The Sankofa Lecture Series draws from paradigms of knowledge rooted in the tradition of Black intellectual thought,
engagement, and activism. Principles of Sankofic learning assert that in order to deal with issues germane to the present and future, one must unapologetically look to a past that has shaped social ideologies, institutions, and practices.
This objective is met by advancing the study of Hip-Hop culture as a site of cultural literacy, identity formation, and
tool for innovative and effective teaching practices.
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Sankofa Lecture Series
&
Hip-Hop Cultural Literacy Conference
Planning Committee
Dr. B. Afeni McNeely Cobham
MSU Denver
Conference Chair
Ms. Amber Mitchell
MSU Denver
Conference Co-Chair
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Dr. Ramon Del Castillo
Dr. Winston Grady-Willis
Professor Shannon Coffey
Domonic Velarde
Ratha Sok
Kyle Sutherland
Community College of Denver
Jessica Trujillo
Deborah Alvarez
Russell Heath
Felicia Hackney
University of Colorado Denver
Robert Acker
Community
Ms. Euda Green-Sabr
Denver Community Liaison
Thank you for (above and beyond) support...
John Mosley, AHEC Sales & Events Manager
Michael Lee, AHEC Event Support
Jehrin Clark (aka J. Hood)
Fienz 'Uno' Rodriguez, Lordz of Finesse
Kathie J., KS107.5
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Sankofa Lecture Series & Hip-Hop Cultural Literacy Conference
Schedule Summary
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Something From Nothing: The Art of Rap
Film Screening & Discussion
Location: St. Cajetan‘s
Thursday, October 4, 2012
8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Registration Check-In
Location: St. Cajetan‘s
9:30 am – 10:45 am
Workshop Session
Remaining true: The influence, evolution, and maturation of Hip-Hop fans
Location: KC 218
10:00 am – 11:15 am
Concurrent Workshop Sessions
 Mile High Cipher: The History of Hip-Hop in Colorado
 From Fishing to Farming: The global rise of capitalism…in the Hip-Hop community
 Blacking Up: Hip-Hop's Remix of Race and Identity [Film Screening & Discussion]
*Review conference program for locations
11:00 am – 12:15 pm
Workshop Session
The New Swag: Establishing the appropriate culture
Location: WC 267
11:30 am – 12:45 pm
Concurrent Workshop Sessions
 Hip-Hop and Immigration
 Why the Hip Hop Church Movement?
*Review conference program for locations
12:45 pm – 1:45 pm -- LUNCH ON YOUR OWN
2:00 pm – 3:15 pm
Concurrent Workshop Sessions
 REMIX: Transcending the masculine context of DJs in Hip-Hop
 Using Senegalese Hip-Hop to enrich French Language & Francophone Culture classes
 LABOR: Work Smarter, Not Harder
 Live from Miami, Jamaica: Beats, Rhymes & Identity in a Transnational Space
*Review conference program for locations
3:30 pm – 4:45 pm
Concurrent Workshop Sessions
 Li‘l Wayne and the New Politics of Cunnilingus in Hip Hop
 Fresh Dipped: Hip-Hop's influence on the Fashion Industry
 Theory to praxis: Employing Hip-Hop Feminism to empower Black and Latina Girls
 Can‘t Stop, Won‘t Stop: Political engagement within the Hip-Hop community
*Review conference program for locations
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5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Concurrent Workshop Sessions
 Break Beat Theatrics: a new Hip-Hop approach to drama
 Your brain On Hip-Hop: How lyrics shape our minds
 Regional Styles and Identities within Hip Hop Music and Culture (1990s-Present)
 Advancing positive feminine identity while living in and loving, Hip-Hop culture
*Review conference program for locations
6:00 pm – 6:45 pm
Meet & Greet Reception and Book Signing w/ MC Lyte
*Registered Conference Participants Only*
Location: St. Cajetan‘s
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Sankofa Lecture Series Keynote Address w/ MC Lyte
*Open to the public
Location: Tivoli – Turnhalle
8:30 pm – 9:15 pm
Book Signing w/ MC Lyte
*Open to the public
Location: Tivoli – Multicultural Lounge
9:30 pm – 11:00 pm
MC Lyte Concert w/ special guest
*Open to the public
Location: Tivoli – Turnhalle
Friday, October 5, 2012
9:00 am – 10:00 am
Registration Check-In
Location: St. Cajetan‘s
10:00 – 11:15 am
Concurrent Workshop Sessions
 The Art of resistance: Fostering community engagement, empowerment, and safety
 Going Green Living Bling: Redefining the Image of Wealth in Hip-Hop Culture
 In the shadow of the Ivory Towers: Utilizing Hip-Hop pedagogy in the Academy
 Eyes on Our Media: An Exploration of Culture, Diversity & the Journalistic Endeavor
*Review conference program for locations
11:30 am – 1:00 pm
Hip-Hop Cultural Literacy Conference Keynote Address
Richard ‗Crazy Legs‘ Colon
Location: St. Cajetan‘s
1:30 pm – 3:00 pm
Hip-Hop Congress B-Boy / B-Girl Battle
& Artistic Expression Showcase
Location: St. Cajetan‘s
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CONFERENCE SCHEDULE
Sankofa Lecture Series
&
Hip-Hop Cultural Literacy Conference
October 3-5, 2012
Metropolitan State University of Denver
www.sankofalectureseries.com
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Location: St. Cajetan‟s
Workshop Title: Something from Nothing: The Art of Rap *Film Screening & Discussion)
Moderator:
Ms. Euda Green-Sabr, Tubman Hilliard Global Academy
Abstract: Visually luscious and drenched with the big beats of classic cuts and freestyle rhyming by some of
the masters of the music, this film is a performance documentary about the runaway juggernaut that is HipHop. At the wheel of this unstoppable beast is Ice-T, who takes us on a personal journey into the asphalt
roots of the music that saved his life. This film is not about stardom, bling, or beef; it’s about craft and skill—
what goes on inside the minds and erupts from the lips of rap legends. Ice-T travels from coast to coast, engaging intimately with the likes of Afrika Bambaataa, Eminem, Nas, Mos Def, Kanye West, Chuck D, KRS-One,
Snoop Dogg, Run-DMC, and Ice Cube. What emerges is a mighty soul tribute to the original American art
form that brought poetry to a new generation.
Citation: Retrieved on August 1, 2012. http://theartofrap.com/
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Auraria Campus
Special Session sponsored by the Department of African and African American Studies, MSU Denver
9:30 am – 10:45 am
Location: King Center, Room 218
Workshop Title: Remaining true to Hip-Hop roots: The influence, evolution, and maturation of Hip-Hop fans
Facilitator:
Mr. William Anderson, Martin Luther King, Jr. Early College
Abstract: In 2012, Hip-Hop culture turned 40 years old. The longevity and dominance of this genre in mainstream popular culture has shaped a generation of fans. These fans, once pre-teens and teenagers have
grown up and now exist in society as influential professionals in diverse fields (i.e., doctors, lawyers, school
teachers, politicians, stock brokers, and so on). Also compelling is the assertion that some have achieved
high-profile positions and/or advanced degrees while “keepin it real.” This session will discuss how the dominant influence of Hip-Hop culture impacts a generation of adult professionals affectionately known as “HipHop Heads.” Participants will also explore how these professionals affect and change the world we live in
through perspectives that are uniquely rooted in Hip-Hop.
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Workshop Session Block
10:00 am – 11:15 am
Workshop Title: Mile High Cipher: The History of Hip-Hop in Colorado
Moderator:
Dr. Winston Grady-Willis, Professor & Chair
Department of African and African American Studies
MSU Denver
Panelists:
Fienz Uno Rodriguez; DJ Chonz; Francios Baptise; DJ Ktone; Brother Jeff
Location:
St. Cajetan’s
Abstract: From its inception Hip-Hop culture has always been uniquely practiced and preserved throughout the
United States. This principle did not elude the youth of Colorado. The ‘Mile High City’ has a rich history of HipHop culture that surfaced in the late 1970s. In this workshop participants will hear from local ‘living legends’
who have made important contributions to Hip-Hop culture in Colorado. Panelists will also discuss the evolution
of Colorado Hip-Hop and their role in shaping the future of the ‘Mile High’ Hip-Hop scene.
###
Workshop Title: From Fishing to Farming: The global rise of capitalism, confidence, and entrepreneurship in the
Hip-Hop community.
Facilitator:
Courtney Jones, CEO
Courtney Jones Media
Location:
Plaza Building, Room 136
Abstract: What Do You Call a 19yr old standing on a street corner who can:
 Structure a Business Model that Allows Him to Buy at Wholesale?
 Flip at a 250% mark-up?
 Add in his head; profit/Loss Margins?
 Create a viable distribution system that employs the unemployable?
 Do all of this while avoiding daily competitors, death, and the police?
If you understand capitalism, you’d call him an entrepreneur with a non-viable product. Participants will walk
away with a broader understanding of the concepts and advantages of Business, Capitalism and Entrepreneurship and the Use of Technology in creating and monetizing sustainable, legal, long-term business models. Strong
parallels are drawn between the definition of traditional “Business”, The Socio- Economic Impact on a community, and the surprising, often unseen, elements already inherent within “The Game” and the Global Hip Hop Culture.
Retrieved on Sept. 11 from http://www.adinkra.org/htmls/adinkra_index.htm
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Workshop Title: Blacking Up: Hip-Hop's Remix of Race and Identity *Film Screening & Discussion+
Facilitator:
Kyle Sutherland, Hip-Hop Congress
MSU Denver
Location:
Tivoli Student Center - Turnhalle
Abstract: When young White people embrace Rap and Hip-Hop culture, is it an example of America moving toward being a “colorblind” society, or is it just another case of cultural theft and mockery? That's the fundamental
question of Robert Clift’s provocative new documentary, Blacking Up: Hip-Hop's Remix of Race and Identity. The
documentary travels back and forth between urban, suburban and rural settings, showing Whites with very different ways of expressing their relationship to hip-hop along the way. In some cases, participants seem to have
found a genuine mode of expression in the music; in other cases, they seem to merge into areas of imitation and
even mockery.
Citations: Retrieved on August 1, 2012 http://www.wolfmanproductions.com/robert_clift.html
Special Session sponsored by the Office of Institutional Diversity, MSU Denver
11:00 am – 12:15 pm
Location: West Classroom Building, Room 267
Workshop Title: The New Swag: Establishing the appropriate culture
Moderator:
Justin Merow, Executive Director
Collegiate Relations - Divine America
Panelists:
Bianca Mikahn; Michael Acuna; Terrance Roberts; Saridae; Dayvaughn Mays
Abstract: This workshop will focus on the dialogues within popular Hip-Hop culture and how these narratives
shape and influence the development of youth. Participants will examine whether or not mainstream artists truly
reflect the viewpoints, representations, and goals of young individuals today. After looking into these questions
and more, workshop panelists will share how they have tackled these questions in their own lives and community
work.
Workshop Session Block
11:30 am – 12:45 pm
Workshop Title: Hip-Hop and Immigration
Facilitator(s): Rebel Diaz
Location:
St. Cajetan’s
Abstract: This multimedia workshop focuses on the historical and current connections between the struggle for
Immigrant Rights and the socio-political concerns of the Hip-Hop Generation. By exploring the historic role of immigrant communities in the creation of Hip-Hop culture, as well as the parallels between the continued criminalization of immigrants and young people of color, this workshop posits that it is the Hip Hop Generation’s responsibility to defend immigrant rights.
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Workshop Title: Why the Hip Hop Church Movement?
Facilitator(s): Michael Von Pennington-Devine, Pastor
Hip-Hop Church of Denver
Location:
Science Building, Room 1106
Abstract: When the church ignores issues like justice: prisons, racism, police brutality and overwhelming poverty; the church’s message to the Hip-Hop generation becomes distant, watered down and ignored. As a consequence, the church is not seen as authentic because it has lost its edge to be committed to those on the margins. This workshop will discuss the profound need to create an outlet that will force religious leaders to hear
from people that are left on the margins of mainstream society. Participants will examine social activism as a
core principle of the ‘real’ gospel of Jesus Christ; which is justice. This aspect of justice and social change is directly connected to Hip-Hop culture.
LUNCH BREAK
12:45 pm – 1:45 pm
*Conference attendees are responsible for making lunch arrangements
Workshop Session Block
2:00 pm – 3:15 pm
Workshop Title: REMIX: Transcending the masculine context of DJs in Hip-Hop
Moderator(s): Professor Shannon Coffey, MSU Denver
Ms. Amber Mitchell, MSU Denver
Panelists:
DJ Shaybutta; DJ Timeko; DJ Bella Scratch
Location:
St. Cajetan’s
Abstract: The world of Hip-Hop is a pervasive ‘male sport.’ As a consequence, the important and rich participation of women has been relegated to the margins of public discourse. Equally dismal is media coverage of female DJs (Disc Jockeys) that focus on shallow references related to looks as oppose to skill. We have assembled
some of Colorado’s top female DJs to discuss the trials and triumphs they contend with to exist on equal footing
in one of Hip-Hop’s most revered core elements.
Retrieved on Sept. 11 from http://www.adinkra.org/htmls/adinkra_index.htm
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Workshop Title: Using Senegalese Hip-Hop to Enrich French Language and Francophone Culture classes
Facilitator(s): Dr. Ann Williams, Professor of French
MSU Denver
Location:
Plaza Building, Room 126
Abstract: Cultural literacy and linguistic competence are both crucial when learning French and studying the diversity of cultures in French-speaking countries. Hip-Hop lyrics are useful for teaching language and Hip-Hop music and culture provide an exceptional window into political and social issues. The example of the Senegalese HipHop movement “Y’en a marre” (“We’re fed up”), instrumental in recent regime change, will show how Hip-Hop
can be used as a teaching tool in French classes.
###
Workshop Title: LABOR: Work Smarter, Not Harder
Facilitator(s): One Be Lo
Location:
West Classroom Building, Room 249
Abstract: This workshop will inspire participants to develop ideas that empower individuals, teams, and communities. One Be Lo, solo Emcee and member of the Hip-Hop group Binary Star will share and discuss tools and methods for developing your craft/talent, building your team/company, finding your fan base/community, and interacting effectively with that community. He may be a One Man Army, but he fully understands that no man is an
island and there's nothing like teamwork to make the dream work. Welcome to the LABORhood!
###
Workshop Title: Live from Miami, Jamaica: Beats, Rhymes & Identity in a Transnational Space
Facilitator(s): Mr. David Kennedy, Graduate Student
University of Denver
Location:
North Classroom Building, Room 1313
Abstract: “Migration is an untapped resource,” (Byron, 2000, p. 89) a journey that sometimes leaves migrants in
limbo, somewhere between both countries, a type of cultural purgatory. In trying to remain active participants of
their culture, they are constantly faced with the challenge of redefining the meaning and relevance of their citizenship (McFarlane, 2011). What does this transnational space mean in terms of one’s citizenship and identity?
This presentation will examine that space by exploring issues of dual identity and citizenship through a performance ethnographic methodology.
Retrieved on Sept. 11 from http://www.adinkra.org/htmls/adinkra_index.htm
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Workshop Session Block
3:30 pm – 4:45 pm
Workshop Title: Li’l Wayne and the New Politics of Cunnilingus in Hip Hop
Facilitator(s): Dr. Heidi Lewis, Assistant Professor
Feminist & Gender Studies
Colorado College
Location:
King Center, Room 312
*This session is reserved for attendees that are 18++
Abstract: When the online article aptly named as ‘new politics’ hit the internet in August of 2012 -- the ensuing
conversations delved in to the complexity of heterosexual Black male politics; which is ubiquitous in mainstream
(and underground) Hip-Hop culture. Several academic and non-academic scholars have directed analysis of ‘rap
music’ as a public manifestation of hypermasculine bravado (‘Cool Pose’) and ego. As noted by the author,
“recognizing the ways in which (some) of Li’l Wayne’s lyrics challenge hegemonic black masculinity is just as important as thrashing *him+ when he subscribes to and reinforces…” archaic misogynistic and sexist ideals. This interactive workshop is reserved for mature participants that hold an acute interest on how to grapple with issues
of gender politics. It is suggested that participants read the article prior to the workshop.
###
Workshop Title: Fresh Dipped: Hip-Hop's influence on the Fashion Industry
Moderator:
Amber Mitchell, MSU Denver & Co-Chair
Sankofa Lecture Series & Hip-Hop Cultural Literacy Conference
Panelists:
Ratha Sok, Rawh Brand
Queen Muhammad Ali, 19 Clothing
Location:
King Center, Room 201
Anubis Heru, Urban Arkanum
Hakeem Khaaliq, 19 Clothing
Abstract: By the mid-1980s major department stores incorporated “urban wear” in their inventory. The basis of
this shift is directly linked to the indigenous style of youth who created clothing trends indelibly linked to Hip-Hop
Culture (i.e., Puma, Lee, Vasco, Adidas, Kangol, and so on). Many ‘mainstream’ designers, aloof to urban culture
and subsequently clothing trends among these urban youths -- eventually capitalized through targeted Hip-Hop
branding; celebrity endorsements; and transformations of international runways. By 2002, urban clothing reached
58 billion in the fashion industry. This workshop brings together a ‘powerhouse’ panel of experts that will provide
acute insight into the business of urban fashion and the influence of Hip-Hop culture, domestic and abroad.
Citation: Romero, E. (2012). Free Stylin': How Hip Hop Changed the Fashion Industry. Praeger
Retrieved on Sept. 11 from http://www.adinkra.org/htmls/adinkra_index.htm
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Workshop Title: From theory to praxis: Employing Hip-Hop Feminism to empower Black and Latina Girls
Facilitator(s): Angell Pérez, Executive Director
Victim Offender Reconciliation Program
Location:
King Center, Room 318
Abstract: This session will introduce the theory of hip hop feminism with a brief historical explanation of feminisms in the United States and how the voice of women of color has emerged. The history and contributions of
women in hip hop culture will be examined as we discuss where women of color are in today’s hip hop. An examination of hip hop feminism as an epistemology for empowerment while making it accessible to the millions of
Black and Latina girls immersed in the culture will end the session.
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Workshop Title: Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop: Political engagement within the Hip-Hop community
Moderator(s): Professor Shannon Coffey, MSU Denver
Ms. Euda Green-Sabr, Tubman Hilliard Global Academy
Panelists:
Dr. Robert Hazan, Professor & Chair
Department of Political Science
MSU Denver
Dr. Allison Cotton, Associate Professor
Department of Criminal Justice
MSU Denver
Dr. B. Afeni McNeely Cobham, Faculty
Department of African and African American Studies
MSU Denver
Chair, Sankofa Lecture Series & Hip-Hop Cultural Literacy Conference
Location:
King Center, Room 316
Abstract: Historians of Hip-Hop culture have defined the science of rap music as a soundtrack to socio-political
issues that exist in our society. The narratives of 20th Century Griots illuminate the need for members of the HipHop community to identify a cause and engage in action as agents of social change. Using Hip-Hop icons, scholars,
and leaders to galvanize political platforms; voter registration; and support of a political candidate is a sharp departure from town hall meetings with middle-aged constituents. The likes of Wyclef Jean, will.i.am, Nicki Minaj,
and P. Diddy, to name a few, demonstrate that the ‘political is personal’ among many in the Hip-Hop generation.
The core purpose of this workshop is to examine Hip-Hop’s role in political discourse, activism, and change.
Retrieved on Sept. 11 from http://www.adinkra.org/htmls/adinkra_index.htm
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Workshop Session Block
5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Workshop Title: Break Beat Theatrics: a new Hip-Hop approach to drama
Facilitator(s): Professor Idris Goodwin
Department of Theater & Dance
Colorado College
Location:
King Center, Room 316
Abstract: Break Beat Theatrics: a new hip hop approach to drama is a multi-faceted workshop led by award
winning playwright and HBO Def Poet Idris Goodwin. Using his critically acclaimed play How We Got On as
case study, Goodwin will break down his unique approach of infusing hip hop aesthetics into theatrical performance. Goodwin will also facilitate writing and performance exercises that prompt students to draw inspiration from the iconic music recordings that shaped their lives.
###
Workshop Title: Your brain On Hip-Hop: How lyrics shape our minds
Facilitator(s): Deanna Gloria Lowman
Location:
King Center, Room 318
Abstract: This workshop will look at hip-hop artists who write either uplifting or degrading lyrics, then discuss
how the music of these artists shape the minds of individuals, and communities as a whole. Participants will
look at artists like KRS-ONE compared to artists like Lil Wayne; Nikki Minaj compared to "old school" female
artists, and more. Participants will also engage in writing an uplifting verse of your own, so come prepared. A
core objective of the workshop is to have participants explore and evaluate the implications that hip-hop lyrics have in shaping the minds of individuals, as well as our global community.
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Workshop Title: Development of Regional Styles and Identities within Hip Hop Music and Culture (1990sPresent)
Facilitator(s): Robert Acker, Graduate Student
University of Colorado Denver
Location:
King Center, Room 211
Abstract: During the 1990s distinctive regional styles and identities emerged within Hip-Hop music and culture. The workshop will focus on how and why these distinctive regional narratives emerged, and how certain artists and albums shaped anthropological spaces and gave context to regional affiliations, identities, and
experiences. Discussions will demonstrate why this is important and significant to Hip-Hop culture.
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Workshop Title: The Womb to The Tomb: Advancing positive feminine identity while living in and loving, Hip-Hop
culture
Facilitator(s): Bianca Mikahn, Lead Facilitator
Mental Health America
Location:
King Center, Room 103
Abstract: This workshop is an in-depth examination of lyrical structure, performance style, artistic activism
(“Artivism”), and the social and professional dynamics of being an emcee and a woman in America. Aspects of
artistry will be examined such as creative content, vocal styling, song structure, and public persona. Attendees will
receive a multi faceted exploration of the mores of hip hop culture as well as utilize opportunities for real life application of advanced writing and performance coaching. Come prepared to share stories, rhymes, opinions, challenges and successes. We will be
writing and performing!
MC LYTE
Sankofa Lecture Series Keynote
6:00 PM
Location: St. Cajetan’s
Meet and Greet Reception & Book Signing
7:00 PM
Location: Tivoli Student Center (Turnhalle)
Keynote Address
8:30 PM – 9:15 PM
Location: Multicultural Lounge
Book Signing
9:30 PM – 11:30 PM
Location: Tivoli Student Center (Turnhalle)
MC Lyte Concert
with featured performers ‘Lady Wu-Tang’
MC Lyte will discuss the transformation
of women‘s roles in hip-hop culture, and
how this shift equates to current struggles over gender equality
Also performing:
Sarah ‘Fahima’ Francois; DJ Shaybutta; Coppa Stone; Colorado
B-Boy Collective Cypher; Rebel Diaz; and DJ Cavem Moetavation. Live artistic expression w/ Patrick McGirr and Adri Norris
Retrieved on Sept. 12 from http://www.adinkra.org/htmls/adinkra_index.htm
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Friday, October 5, 2012
Special Session sponsored by Journey Through Our Heritage, MSU Denver
10:00 am – 11:15 am
Location: Center for Visual Art, 965 Santa Fe Drive
Workshop Title: The Art of resistance: Fostering community engagement, empowerment, and safety
Facilitator(s): Patrick McGirr
Abstract: The history of ‘Graffiti’ within Hip-Hop Culture has always held a dual identity, artistic renaissance and
artistic resistance. The facilitator will discuss the development of a graffiti class that provides youth and teens with
an alternative to the violence and despair they encounter in their communities. The discussion will address the
challenges and triumphs of doing this type of work, and the impact on youth and their communities, and how this
initiative can be implemented in other non-profit organizations and schools.
Workshop Session Block
10:00 am – 11:15 am
Workshop Title: Going Green Living Bling: Redefining the Image of Wealth in Hip-Hop Culture
Facilitator(s): Ietef ‘DJ Cavem’ Vita
Neambe LeadonVita
Location:
King Center, Room 203
Abstract: This workshop will focus on the growing movement of sustainability within hip-hop culture, and the mission to raise health and food justice awareness. The discussion will address how to consume consciously, how to
prepare healthy alternative diet meals, and the unfortunate truths about our food industry that make these tools
necessary. This curriculum is also infused with art and music.
###
Workshop Title: Keepin’ it real in the shadow of the Ivory Towers: Utilizing Hip-Hop pedagogy in the Academy
Facilitator(s): Professor Shannon Coffey, MSU Denver
Professor B. Afeni McNeely Cobham, MSU Denver
Location:
King Center, Room 208
Abstract: Throughout America educators have grappled with how students address social and cultural assumptions such as: the “American Dream” is a reality that everyone can have; welfare is not needed; teen mother’s deserve what they get; poverty is a personal choice; not going to college is an act of laziness; and self medication is
an indictment of no will power and poverty. Since Hip-Hop arose elements of the culture have granted access to
historical marginalized perspectives which have served as the soundtrack, philosophies, artistic modes, and avenues of praxis for oppressed communities. This session is targeted to educators and community members engaged in using Hip-Hop pedagogy to enhance curriculum by facilitating life-long learning that builds on the lived
experiences of students.
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Workshop Title: Eyes on Our Media: An Exploration of Culture, Diversity & the Journalistic Endeavor
Moderator:
Marlena Hartz, Assistant Director
Office of Student Media, MSU Denver
Panelist:
Dr. Angelique Acevedo-Barron
Assistant Director
Office of Diversity & Inclusion
Jeffco Schools
Eric Byler
Filmmaker and Activist
Gil Asakawa, Manager
Student Media
University of Colorado
Mike Shum
Documentary Filmmaker
Katie Fleming, Associate Director
Colorado Common Cause
Location:
King Center, Room 206
Abstract: “Eyes on Our Media: An Exploration of Culture, Diversity & the Journalistic Endeavor” brings together a
distinguished panel of journalists, activists and educators to discuss how mainstream media reinforces and shapes
social ideologies, institutions and practices. The panel will also explore how technological developments in media
have reinvigorated the way in which information (news) is developed, received and exchanged. The ubiquity of
open publishing platforms has brought new opportunities for citizens, including hip-hop artists. However, it has
also raised concerns about the preservation of traditional journalism values, such as accuracy and fairness. Additional issues remain relevant: Media literacy, Gate keeping, Media representation, framing and understanding.
CRAZY LEGS
Hip-Hop Cultural Literacy Conference
Plenary Session Speaker
11:30 AM
Location: St. Cajetan’s
Keynote Address
1:30 PM
Location: St. Cajetan’s
Judge
Artistic Expression B-Boy/B-Girl Battle
Crazy Legs will discuss the cultural relevance of the B-boy and
B-girl movement in hip-hop history, and the influence of Latino/a culture on the art of hip-hop dance.
Retrieved on Sept. 12 from http://www.adinkra.org/htmls/adinkra_index.htm
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Lana “Mc Lyte” Moorer is hailed as a lyricist, icon, inspirational speaker,
Hip-Hop veteran, and entrepreneur. She is touted as one of the most prolific
and well-respected female Hip-Hop artists of our time. She has consistently
found ways to reinvent herself musically, while expanding her resume and
gaining new fans.
Reared in Brooklyn, New York, MC Lyte always has her finger on Hip-Hop‘s
pulse. Many are familiar with her stellar music making skills, but over the
course of her extensive career, MC Lyte has ventured out to other avenues that
have allowed her to show the world just how talented she truly is. A pioneer in
the music industry, MC Lyte is the FIRST rap artist ever to perform at New
York‘s historic Carnegie Hall, the FIRST female rapper to ever receive a gold
single, the FIRST female solo rapper ever nominated for a Grammy and in
2006, MC Lyte became the FIRST solo female rapper to be honored and inducted on VH-1‘s HIP HOP HONORS.
MC Lyte has graced the cover of magazines, been featured in films, and has served as a major influence in network television as the voice behind national Ad campaigns for Wherehouse Music, Coca-Cola, McDonald‘s
and Nike, to name a few.
A role model to women and respected by men everywhere, Lyte never compromises who she is and consistently displays that a woman can turn heads fully clothed! Whenever possible, Lyte enjoys traveling across the nation to use her expertise and story of success to motivate others to take ownership of the world around them
while striving to be the best they can possibly be.
Author of "Unstoppable: Igniting the Power Within to Achieve Your Greatest Potential," MC Lyte provides
keynote addresses at educational institutions, community centers and corporations around the globe and is also
very active in many social projects, including anti-violence campaigns, HIV/AIDs prevention, and Rock the
Vote.
MC Lyte currently resides in California where she serves as President of the Los Angeles Chapter of the Recording Academy, and is a proud honorary member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated.
MC Lyte is also the founder of the Hip-Hop Sisters Network, a non-profit foundation that provides national
and international support to women and youth around the globe on the topics of: cultural issues; financial empowerment; health and wellness; mentorship; and educational opportunities.
In 2012, in collaboration with the University of Wisconsin-Madison, MC Lyte‘s Hip-Hop Sisters Foundation
established a scholarship in the amount of $100,000 dollars. The funds will enable one college-bound student
to pursue a bachelor's degree in Hip-Hop Culture.
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Richard "Crazy Legs" Colon, president of the legendary B-Boy troupe The Rock Steady Crew (RSC) battled
his way into the crew at the age of 12. In 1979, after his
family relocated from the Bronx to Manhattan, Crazy
Legs sought and eventually received permission to establish a RSC chapter in his new borough. Crazy Legs began
to recruit second generation RSC members, this new crew
which includes B-Boy legends eventually became the motivating force behind the revival of B-boying in the early
1980s.
Crazy Legs continued to gain notoriety and pioneered the
‗Continuous Backspin,‘ a classic B-Boy move that is also
known as the Windmill.
In 1981, Rock Steady Crew was invited to battle their rivals The Dynamic Rockers as part of the Lincoln Center Outdoors series in New York City. With coverage from local TV news as well as international press, this
legendary event gained them worldwide exposure. By 1982, the dance took Crazy Legs and RSC to Paris and
London where they performed for the Queen of England. Featured in films and documentaries such as: ―Style
Wars‖ and ―Wild Style,‖ RSC became the most influential Hip Hop dance crew. The crew‘s credits include
many of the first Hip Hop tours in the early 80‘s, which set the foundation for what the culture has become.
The tours plus a chart topping song in England: "Hey You!" promoted the B-Boy/girl movement to a global
audience.
Around 1986, when the media, movies and advertisers eventually dismissed B-Boying as a fad, Rock Steady
Crew did not split up. RSC was revived once again in the 1990s, with some members including Crazy Legs
performing in the first Hip Hop musicals, ―So! What Happens Now?‖ and GhettOriginal Productions ―Jam on
the Groove.‖ In 1991, members of the Rhythm Technicians and RSC collectively won the Bessie Award for
choreography. ―Jam on the Groove‖ was nominated for best choreography at the Drama Desk Awards in 1996.
On July 14th, 1991, Rock Steady Crew‘s anniversary celebrations were established in NYC and have since
been held annually to celebrate and preserve the history and evolution of Hip Hop Culture. Organized and
hosted by Crazy Legs, this monumental community event brings together thousands of Hip Hop practitioners
and enthusiasts from all around the globe.
Crazy Legs has personally choreographed music videos for Wyclef Jean and Moby. He is also co-producer of
the B-Boy documentary ―The Freshest Kids,‖ and has appeared in commercials and print ads for Coke, Sprite,
Verizon Wireless, Sean Jean, Avirex, Nike and RED BULL. Other career highlights for this B-Boy legend include working with Savion Glover and teaching John Leguizamo to B-Boy for his Tony Award-nominated
play ―Freak‖. A deal signed with Fila made him the first B-Boy to get a sneaker company to honor a group like
the Rock Steady Crew. In 2001, RSC was the first B-Boy/b-girl crew to perform at Carnegie Hall. In 2003, he
was presented with the Source Youth Foundation Image Award, received the AARTS Award from the Bay
Shore Schools Arts Education Fund, and was honored as the National Godfather of the Jersey City Puerto Rican Day Parade.
As a soloist, Crazy Legs has toured extensively throughout the U.S., Japan, Australia, South America and Europe. Despite having worldwide respect and recognition, the fame hasn't gone to his head. His focus remains
on the importance of youth, community and preservation of Hip Hop as a vehicle for expression and change.
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Guest Speakers
Rob Acker is a graduate student at the University of Colorado Denver, History Department. His Master‘s Thesis research focuses on the regional identity of rap music from
1995 to 1998. Rob is also involved in the Denver music scene as a rapper and vocalist in
the Boulder based-live band/Hip-Hop group REIFY, and his solo project as Solace Zeta.
Michael Acuna (IIL7) is a co-director of artist services and nonprofit relations at
Divine America, the lead facilitator at PeaceJam in association with Art from Ashes, a
concert venue promoter, and a professional recording artist.
In 2010, Nation19, a conscience street wear Apparel Company was founded in
Scottsdale, AZ by Designer and Director Hakeem Khaaliq, Queen Muhammad Ali
(CEO of Mobile Regime), and Music Producer Masaniai Muhammad Ali. The brand
is considered a lifestyle project influenced by a variety of defining traits from the
UFO phenomenon, metaphysics, mathematics, indigenous cultures, Hip-Hop, and
skateboarding. Owned and operated by Mobile Regime, LLC, -- Nation19 has several distinctive logos that are trademarked in the US and abroad.
William Anderson, a native of Colorado, born and raised in Aurora, is a Social
Studies high school teacher at Martin Luther King, Jr. Early College, located in
Green Valley Ranch. He graduated from MSU Denver with a degree in History and a
secondary teaching licensure. Mr. Anderson earned his Master of Education degree
in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Phoenix. At present he is in
pursuit of a second degree in ELA Instruction at the University of Colorado Denver.
Gil Asakawa serves as an advisor for a student-led media outlet at the University of
Colorado Boulder. Previously, he was manager of audience development for MediaNews Group Interactive in Denver and director of content for Examiner.com in Denver.
His work was twice included in the Rocky‘s ―100 Best Colorado Websites,‖ and he was
a 2004 Online Journalism Fellow at the Western Knight Center for Specialized Journalism in Los Angeles. Asakawa founded the Denver Chapter of the Asian American Journalists Association and recently served as the Director of Programming for V3, the
Asian American Digital Media Conference.
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Francois Baptiste is an entrepreneur and promoter with nine years of experience as assistant talent buyer for House of Blues. His company, 3 Deep Productions is responsible for
maintaining several of Denver‘s longest running and most successful night-life events. An
expert in artist and repertoire (A&R) development, Baptiste is the manager of Denver-based
hip-hop band, The Foodchain.
Dr. Angelique Acevedo-Barrón is a writer and educator with over 25 years in public
education. Her global perspective has made her the recipient of the Milken National
Educator Award, the Disney American Teacher of the Year Award, and the Distinguished Teacher of the Year Award for Colorado. Dr. Acevedo-Barrón is Assistant
Director for the Office of Diversity and Inclusion for Jefferson County Public Schools.
DJ Bella Scratch began making an impression on the music scene at the age of 16,
during that time she was known as one of the top female Emcee's in her area after her
street release of an introductory EP titled "Hip Hop Engraved." In 2000, she discovered a new interest in DJing when she had the opportunity to work in Oklahoma
City's top night spot, Club Lexus. There she learned how to ‗spin‘ records on a pair
of belt drive turntables. In 2003 Bella became an on-air personality for Oklahoma
City's Power 103.5 FM and 1140 AM stations; which gave her the chance to learn
more about the industry from a communications perspective. Currently DJ Bella
Scratch is available for voiceover, and private bookings.
DJ ShayButta was born in Washington D.C./Landover Maryland and raised in Aurora Colorado. At the age of 5 is when she fell in love with music. Her all time favorite song, to this day is ―I can‘t go for that‖ by Hall and Oates. People that know
her know that she cannot function without music. As a connoisseur of music
‗Shay‘s‘ favorite quote is ―If you look deep enough, you can see and feel music.‖
Music is Shay‘s life and she enjoys making people happy by playing their favorite
songs.
Eric Byler is an American film director, screenwriter and political activist. Byler was
nominated for an Independent Spirit Award for his debut feature Charlotte Sometimes
(2002), hailed by film critic Roger Ebert as a breakthrough for Asian American filmmakers. Byler‘s acclaimed documentary, 9500 Liberty, chronicles the first time in U.S. history that an Arizona-style immigration law was implemented — and the grassroots movement that rose up to repeal it. His films have won 15 international film festival awards.
He is a founding member of Coffee Party USA, an organization that nurtures civic engagement.
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Dr. B. Afeni McNeely Cobham, a native of Brooklyn, New York is an alumnus of
Marist College, the University of Georgia, and Indiana University – Bloomington.
She has served as a scholar-practitioner for 21 years, and currently holds a faculty
appointment with the Department of African and African American Studies at
MSU Denver. Dr. McNeely Cobham‘s research, publications, and teaching focus
on identity development of college students, career self-efficacy among Black
women faculty, and pedagogical practices that use Hip-Hop culture to explore and
address institutionalized socio-economic and racial oppression. ―Dr. MC‖ developed the Sankofa Lecture Series & Hip-Hop Cultural Literacy Conference.
Shannon Coffey, a first generation college student completed both her undergraduate and graduate coursework at the University of Colorado at Boulder. Shannon has
published two articles regarding the utilization of Hip-Hop pedagogy, ―Rap and Hip
-Hop in Academia: Hegemony and the Censorship in Higher Education Pedagogy‖
and ―Are Social Identity Markers Related to the Utilization of Hip-Hop Pedagogy?‖
In addition to being an Affiliate Faculty member at MSU Denver, she currently
teaches a college level course for students at a local high school and remains an active member of the Guardian Scholars Family (University of Colorado).
Dr. Allison M. Cotton is an Associate Professor of Criminology at MSU Denver. A
Colorado native, Dr. Cotton is an alumnus of the University of Colorado at Boulder
and Howard University. Dr. Cotton has published several papers on criminal justice
topics, including but not limited to the death penalty, eye-witness identifications, lethal behavior, and expert witnesses. Her first book, Effigy: Images of Capital Defendants was released in the summer of 2008. Her second book, Racialized Perceptions of Crime is contracted to New York University Press. Dr.
Cotton is a member of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences, the American Society of Criminology, and Coloradans for Alternatives to the Death Penalty. She is also a member of
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Fronted by MC‘s Rodstarz and MC/Producer G1, Rebel Diaz shows us the true
global power of Hip Hop. After first performing at an immigrant rights March in
New York City in 2006 in front of a half million people, the bilingual duo has
taken the international community by storm with their explosive live shows. The
group‘s versatility has allowed for them to share the stage with the likes of Common, Yassin Bey (formerly Mos Def), and Public Enemy. Rebel Diaz has also
piqued the interest of the academic community with their poignant social commentary and energetic performances. They have spent the last four years visiting
dozens of colleges and universities, facilitating workshops, speaking on panels,
and performing at national conferences. On the heels of their critically acclaimed Otro Guerrillero mixtape series, Rebel Diaz will soon be releasing their debut album, The Radical Dilemma.
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Brother Jeff Fard, a native of Northeast Denver is a multimedia journalist, cultural
and community organizer, and entrepreneur. He frequents the national lecture circuit
speaking to youth, students, social organizations, and professionals about cultural
identity and history, self-empowerment, community building, economic development, and the uniting power of art. In 1994 he founded Brother Jeff‘s Cultural Center, located in the historic Five Points District to serve the community throughout
the year. This work has been most clearly epitomized in the 1999 establishment of
the Fard Building, a facility that houses various human service programs such as
Out For Life Colorado, the Colorado Hip-Hop Coalition, NKM2, and the Five
Points Community Mobilization Project. These organizations have chosen to be
based in Five Points and are currently providing programming addressing HIV/
AIDS, prisons, youth services, mental health, and drug and alcohol counseling in
the neighborhood and beyond.
Katie Fleming is the Associate Director for Colorado Common Cause. She works
on communications, fundraising and organizing for the Colorado office. Before
rejoining Common Cause in 2012, she worked for the organization in Colorado
and California as an organizer and policy advocate. She was also Executive Director of Clean Slate Now. She is an alumnus of the University of Akron and the University of Colorado.
Idris Goodwin, a professor in the Department of Theater & Dance at Colorado College is an award winning playwright, rapper and essayist. The author of the pushcart
nominated collection, ‗These Are The Breaks,‘ Goodwin's performed on HBO, Discovery Channel and Sesame Street. His latest play ‗How We Got On‘ premiered at the
36th Annual Humana Festival at Actors Theatre of Louisville.
Marlena Hartz is the Assistant Director of Student Media at MSU Denver. She has
more than eight years of experience in higher education, newsroom and nonprofit settings. She holds a Masters degree in International and Intercultural Communication
from the University of Denver. Prior to joining Student Media, Ms. Hartz covered
public affairs for daily newspapers in New Mexico and Texas and served as the Assistant Local News Editor at the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal.
Dr. Robert Hazan is Chair and Professor of Political Science at MSU Denver. Dr. Hazan grew up in Istanbul, Turkey, and was educated in France and the United States. He
received his doctorate from the Korbel School of International Studies at the University of Denver. His research and teaching concentrate on the Politics of the United
States, Europe and the Developing World.
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Anubis Heru is a 32 year old entrepreneur from Denver Colorado. He is involved with
several disciplines including graphic design, creative writing, and martial arts. His apparel line Urban Arkanum™ is his most recent venture. Urban Arkanum is a line that depicts
positive symbols, imagery and phrases from the ancient Kemetic culture.
What if there was a way to ―get your shine on‖ and spread the word about your business
so you could attract more clients, make more money, and have a bigger impact, without
adding hours to the day? Courtney Jones, CEO of Courtney Jones Media, works with
clients to answer just that. She consults with entrepreneurs and individuals who want to
utilize technology and media to change their lives and communities through building
legal, viable, long-term revenue streams.
David Kennedy is a Graduate student at the University of Denver, Morgridge College
of Education. His current research interests include: Hip-Hop and the arts in urban education, and reggae music and poetry as a vehicle for social change in the Caribbean.
Originally from Kingston, Jamaica, he is the self-proclaimed dreamer. During the day,
he plays the role of a mild-mannered graduate student, but at night, he changes into Coppa Stone, his alter ego, a hip-hop and reggae music artist.
Mr. Hakeem Khaaliq has written, directed, and produced records, films, commercials, and
music videos for several high-profile sport and music industry celebrities. Some of his clients include: Kobe Bryant, Snoop Dogg, Tha Alkaholiks, and David Banner to name a few.
Mentored by Big Jon Platt, Hakeem expanded the Radio Bums into a full service music publishing company, negotiating, administering and licensing music to Lions Gate Films, MTV,
VH1, Viacom, Nickelodeon and MGM. Currently Hakeem serves as the Chief Creative Officer of Mobile Regime, LLC, a US based Design and Multimedia. Some of Mobile
Regime's (past and present) clients include the late Michael Jackson, T.I.'s KING Foundation, Microsoft Xbox, Wyclef Jean, DJ Chonz.com, Nation19 and more.
DJ Ktone is recognized and respected in the Colorado hip-hop arena, most recently
named Westword Hip Hop DJ for 2011 and 2012. He has created and produced over 100
mixtapes and been profiled in numerous publications, both locally and nationally. Ktone
is also an honored CORE DJ member.
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Dr. Heidi Lewis is an Assistant Professor of Feminist & Gender Studies at Colorado
College. Her teaching and research focus on feminism, gender and sexuality, women‘s
writing, African American literature and culture, Critical Race Theory, Critical Whiteness Studies, and Critical Media Studies. Her most recent project focuses on contemporary tragic mulatto narratives, particularly those that focus on the father-daughter relationship. Her other research interests include constructions of black gay men on television, black celebrity, Hip-Hop culture, and the ways in which women of color experience and shape academia.
Deanna Gloria Lowman grew up listening to Hip-Hop and insists that it is the best genre of
music. It has provided many happy memories for her, and has been the constant soundtrack
to her life. Whether it was ―The Breaks‖ in elementary school, Public Enemy in high school,
or A Tribe Called Quest in college, she has always been a fan of dope beats and wellexecuted lyrics. She currently works as a freelance photographer.
Dayvaughn Mays is an author at Design Poetry Group, helping to promote and enhance the
voice of positive thinkers. He also helps to educate aspiring writers on how to develop their
product. Dayvaughn is a graduate of East High School and is helping to shape culture here in
Denver.
Patrick McGirr currently does custom art work for Sailor Jerry Rum, including murals,
custom bikes and cars. He also facilitated Art classes for the‘ Summer of Safety‘ initiative in collaboration with Senator Mike Johnston and The Youth Connection. The goal of
‗Summer of Safety‘ is to keep youth out of gangs and out
the streets by introducing them to art and music. McGirr also does custom art for Figure
Four Productions. He received his degree in Graphic Design from the Art Institute of
Colorado.
Justin Samuel Merow is the chief executive and director of collegiate relations at Divine
America. Justin received two undergraduate degrees with the intent to start a company that
would identify with the current struggles of youth in America. Merow is a visual artist, an
emcee, and has specialized in nonprofit recruitment, mentoring, and business development.
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Bianca Mikahan is the Lead facilitator of Check Your Head, a therapeutic art workshop
with Mental Health America, she also partners with Flobots.org. As the most effective
and relevant lyricists to come out of Colorado -- Mikahn has shared the stage with such
artists as Bahamadia, Mysitc, Dead Prez, The Last Poets and Amiri Baraka to name a
few. Performing in the groundbreaking tribute band Lady Wu-Tang has also led to light
collaborations with members of the renowned Hip-Hop collective, the Wu-Tang Clan.
Amber Mitchell, a native of Denver, Colorado, is a graduating senior at MSU Denver
studying Hospitality, Tourism and Events Management with a minor in African and African American Studies. She has served as Co-Chair of the Sankofa Lecture Series since
January, 2012 and remained on board to assume leadership of the Hip-Hop Cultural Literacy Conference. Amber also serves as the Assistant Fashion Show Producer for Brickhouze Boutique.
One Be Lo is a prolific solo Emcee and member of the legendary Hip-Hop duo
Binary Star. Starting his career in the mid 1990s and working tirelessly since, he
has six full-length albums and four mix tapes under his belt. He is a completely
independent artist that has performed around the world.
Known in the rap circles as ―Miami Mike,‖ Pastor Michael DeVine Pennington grew
up in Overtown and Liberty City, one of the roughest areas of Miami, Florida. Surrounded by violence and poverty, DeVine was exposed at an early age to the cold, hard facts of
inner city life and what the influence of evil can do to both people and communities. As a
result, the former ‗Ghetto Style DJ‘ went from Luke Campbell‘s 2Live Crew to Christ.
As a nationally acclaimed Hip-Hop Pastor, DeVine inspires and entertains as a pioneer of
Gospel Rap Music and (the) Holy Hip-Hop movement.
Angell Pérez is currently a second year graduate student at Colorado State University in
the Ethnic Studies Department. She received an independent Bachelor‘s degree in Social
Justice and Multiculturalism from Metropolitan State University of Denver which incorporated Chicana/o Studies, African American Studies, Women‘s Studies and Sociology.
Angell‘s theoretical interests include Black feminism, Chicana feminism, Hip-Hop feminism and intersectionality. Some of Ms. Pérez‘s areas of professional expertise include
gender specific program development for girls of color, youth program development, antiracism and anti-oppression training, and mentoring of young professionals of color.
26
Terrance Roberts founded and continues to serve as the Executive Director of The
Prodigal Son Initiative, a program designed to prevent youth violence through community mobilization. He is one of the Denver originators of the national ―Heal the Hood
Movement.‖
Delfino "Fienz" Rodriguez, a native of Denver, Colorado began to engage in ‗BBoy‘ dance in 1984. He was inspired by the film Beat Street and other Denver BBoy crews such as Radio Active, D&S Connection, Dancers Unique, Break Patrol, and DC Spinmasters. In 1992, he became serious about the art of Hip-Hop
dance after connecting with the SB Crew from Chicago (Zore & Rafa) and the
GhettOriginals at Ashland Recreation Center. These interactions led to a lifelong
mentorship from fellow B-Boy Kwikstep, together the two created the Lordz of
Finesse (LOF) in 1993. Although Fienz has dedicated over twenty years of his life
to Hip-Hop culture; he still considers himself a student. For that reason he is
thankful for and inspired by the pioneers who came before him: Mr. Wiggles, Ken Swift, Fabel, Crazy Legs,
Zulu Gremlin, Soul Messiah and Kwikstep.
Mario „DJ Chonz‟ Rodriguez, a native of Denver, Colorado came into a world filled
with the culture of the streets. Although living under the guidance of his devout Catholic parents, Rodriguez dabbled in everything the streets had to offer from gang life to Hip
-Hop. Inspired by local Denver DJs, Chonz practiced and honed his skills for nearly two
years before contending in DJ competitions. In 1996, Chonz won a local radio DJ competition after being undefeated for several weeks. As a result, DJ Chonz‘s stardom began
to rise on the Denver Hip-Hop scene. In 2001, Denver‘s largest Hip-Hop station KS107.5
invited Chonz and local personalities Francois Baptiste and Kingdom to launch the Radio
Bums Mixtape Show. Because of the show‘s popularity and Chonz‘s skills on the turntable -- KS107.5 recruited him to mix live in the studio for the weekend party mix and during the afternoon drive, making him the first DJ to ever mix live on commercial radio in Denver.
After 15 years of study and work in the field of engineering, Eudaimonia (Euda)
Green-Sabr became enamored with the arts and took the ultimate leap of faith. In the
4+ years since quitting her corporate job she's figured out that her reason for leaving is
to do whatever she can to help heal herself and her community. To that end, she now
teaches math and science to middle school students and spends her free time studying
spirituality and psychology and their practical and artistic applications.
Saridae, a local recording artist is reflective of her connection to music, ―I feel that
music is an audio form of art but is still meant to incorporate the visual arts. When I
make a song, there is a vivid amount of imagery involved. I want my imagination to
inspire other‘s imagination, and thus create a mind state of no boundaries... That‘s
what I‘m here for.‖ Along with being an accomplished vocal artist, Saridae is currently a student at CU Denver studying Music with a focus on business.
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Mike Shum is a documentary filmmaker and multimedia journalist whose work has appeared on France 24, The Huffington Post, CNN International, Denver's The Westword,
CBS, Fox 31, and KWGN-Denver. His first documentary was a college film on criminalizing poverty in Chicago, which led to a class-action lawsuit against the city. Since then, he
has covered stories on social justice and international development in Tanzania, Rwanda,
Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Nigeria.
Ratha Sok started out as a street artist, but his passion quickly developed into a desire to
build and manage a successful business. It wasn't until his late teenage years that Ratha
was given the tools to create and grow his own company. He has the ability to help people
discover their passions and empower them to follow their dreams; as such, he has brought
together a strong creative community that makes up his street wear brand Rawh Expressions. Together, combined with Ratha's artistry and set of marketing and interpersonal
skills, Rawh Expressions has quickly become an instrument for positive social change in
Denver‘s community.
Kyle Sutherland is a local poet, community organizer, and emcee. He was featured on
HBO's Brave New Voices in 2010 and has taught poetry workshops in over 30 different elementary and middle schools in the Denver Metro Area. He is the current treasurer of Hip
Hop Congress and is a student of Philosophy.
DJ Timeko T is a Fleet Definition DJ from Denver Colorado (djtimekot.com). She has a
syndicated podcast called "Wired to the T" (w3t.podomatic.com) and is a contributing
editor and program director on soulsticeradio.com. She enjoys remixing music, but her
main goal is to break an unsigned artist, preferably a female.
Ietef Hotep Vita, a native of Denver, Colorado is more than a deejay. He hails from the
historic Five Points and has been a long time community activist. At age 26, DJ
C.A.V.E.M. (Communicating Awareness Victoriously Educating the Masses) Moetavation, is an internationally known Hip-Hop artist, writer/producer, deejay, Hip-Hop Yogi,
Afro-Latin percussionist, father, midwife, and environmental and youth advocate. He is
an Eco-Cultivator/Educator, sharing his knowledge with various age groups in organic
gardening, sustainability, conscious consumption, and Hip-Hop culture. His latest album, The Produce Section merges eco-consciousness and Hip-Hop.
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Neambe LeadonVita is an award winning community activist, educator, organic gardener and mother of two, integrating her many talents as Eco-Cultivator for several community organizations. Neambe co-designed a curriculum entitled ―Going Green, Living Bling:
Redefining the Image of Wealth in Hip Hop Culture,‖ which includes an introduction to
sustainability, organic vegetable gardening, food justice, health, and Hip Hop History.
Ann Williams received her Ph.D. from Northwestern University and also has a diploma
from the Université de Lyon II. She is currently professor of French at MSU Denver
where she teaches courses in language, literature and culture. She regularly presents conference papers and writes on contemporary culture and she has co-authored four collegelevel French textbooks.
Dr. Winston Grady-Willis is professor and chair of African and African American Studies at Metropolitan State University of Denver. He earned a BA in history from Columbia, an MPS in Africana Studies from Cornell, and a PhD in history from Emory. Prior to
coming to MSU Denver he was Director of Intercultural Studies and associate professor
of American Studies at Skidmore College. While at Syracuse University, he received the
Meredith Teaching Recognition Award. His book, Challenging U.S. Apartheid: Atlanta
and Black Struggles for Human Rights, 1960-1977, seeks to provide a gendered examination of the contemporary Black Freedom movement. His articles have appeared in Presence Africaine, The Black Panther Party Reconsidered, and Black Prison Movements,
USA.
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Thank You Sponsors
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Office of Institutional Diversity
Department of Chicana/o Studies
Office of Student Engagement & Wellness/Dean of Students
School of Letters, Arts and Sciences
Office of Student Activities
Student Government Assembly
Hip-Hop Congress
Department of International Studies
Institute for Women's Studies & Services
Office of Faculty Development
Office of Student Media
Center for Urban Education
Office of Alumni Relations
Journey Through Our Heritage
Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender Student Services at Auraria
Department of Sociology & Anthropology
Department of Political Science
Community College of Denver
Student Government Association
University of Colorado Denver
School of Education and Human Development
Department of Ethnic Studies
Office of Black Student Services
SGI-USA Buddhist Club
Office of Student Life
Student Government Association
Regis University
Office of Diversity
Department of English
Department of Gender and Women’s Studies
Peace and Justice Studies
English Department
Department of Sociology
Community College of Aurora
Office of the Vice President of Instruction
University of Denver
Association of Sisters in Higher Education
Department of Gender and Women’s Studies
Office of Graduate Studies
USA Buddhist Club
Corporate Supporters
Denver Nuggets
Starbucks
KS 107.5
Coca-Cola
Biscuit & Berries
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Thank You
-Cheryl Carter, Marketing Director AHEC
-Lana ‘MC Lyte’ Moorer
-MSU Denver Office of Marketing & Communications
-Lynn Richardson
-MSU Denver Accounts Payable
-Richard ‘Crazy Legs’ Colon
-Auraria Police Department
-Vivian Kimi Tozaki Esq.
- Parking & Transportation Services
-Workshop facilitators, panelist, and moderators
-Rawh Brand
-Volunteers
-Hip Hop Sisters Network
Artists and Performers
DJ ShayButta
Adri Norris
Lordz of Finesse
Patrick ‘GIRR’ McGirr
Soul Mechanics/DC Spinmasters
Coppa Stone
Street Styles/ DC Spinmasters
DJ Cavem
*GWT*
Rebel Diaz
Fahima
Lady Wu-Tang
Class Info
The 21st century MINSTREL SHOWdown: Hip-Hop culture vs. rap music and the commodification of social identities.
Spring 2013
Mondays 11 am to 1:50 PM
Instructor: Dr. B. Afeni McNeely Cobham
Course Objectives
 Students will explore the social and cultural roots of Hip-Hop culture in America and the mobilization and empowerment of New York City’s urban youth. Students will be able to identify sociological issues and historical events
that illuminate the marginalization and triumphs of urban youth.

Students will examine rap artist’s ‘outsider-within’ representation of their lived experience and how these depictions impact one’s understanding of the multidimensional and complex issues facing urban America.

Using feminist theories as a backdrop, students will be able to recognize ‘stereotype resistance’ within the patriarchal sphere of rap music.

Students will investigate the impact of Eurocentric involvement in Hip-Hop culture and how representations of
White culture could be viewed as disingenuous and contradictory.

Students will investigate and critically analyze the aesthetical contributions of Hip-Hop culture in popular American/westernized institutions (i.e., sport, education, literature, film, commercials and various forms of music).

Students will examine the domestic and global influences of Hip-Hop culture on traditionally segregated and diverse people, and how these communities (commonly referred to as the “Hip-Hop Nation”) engage in broad opposition to social inequities.

Students will examine the intersection of various social identities and critically analyze how Hip-Hop culture
shapes and illuminates collective agency
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