New Single Moves People to Act on Climate Change, Benefits Storm Victims

Hip Hop Caucus’ non-partisan initiative reaches young voters and voters of color with Virginia cultural influencers issuing a calls to action to register to  vote by October 16th deadline

Washington D.C.Respect My Vote! kicked off a final push to make sure people across the Commonwealth are registered to vote ahead of the November 7th elections. The campaign is promoting young Virginia media, artist, activist and social media influencers as spokespeople.

Last Friday marked the 100th birthday of the civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer and the campaign joined the civil rights community to call for people to honor her by registering to vote. Rev Yearwood, Hip Hop Caucus President & CEO, wrote an op-ed in RVA Magazine connecting her spirit to the importance of voting in the upcoming Virginia elections. This year’s Virginia campaign is being lead by No Malice, formerly of the acclaimed rap duo The Clipse and Virginia Beach native. The deadline to register in Virginia is October 16th, and people can do so by visiting RespectMyVote.com.

For more information and to stay updated, check out:

Respect My Vote! was first launched in 2008 and has since engaged millions of people during election cycles throughout the United States . Through partnerships with nonprofits, businesses, media and entertainment companies, and celebrity spokespeople, the campaign focuses on voter registration, voter education, get-out-the-vote, and voter rights . Spokespeople have included Vic Mensa, T.I., Charlamagne tha God, Keke Palmer, 2 Chainz, Amber Rose, Future, and hundreds of other artists and community leaders. Respect My Vote! is a non-partisan, voter registration, education, and mobilization campaign of the Hip Hop Caucus

Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues affecting underserved and vulnerable communities. HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle, as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity . More at HipHopCaucus.org.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

At one of Hip Hop’s largest annual events, Hip Hop Caucus is working with activists, academics, and artists to drive social justice and environmental solutions through advocacy and non-partisan electoral organizing

Atlanta, Georgia – October 6, 2017 – This week at one of the world’s largest hip hop festivals,  Hip Hop Caucus has partnered with A3C to train and organize young people on the power of art, music, and hip hop culture advance social justice and civic engagement. Founded in 2005, A3C has grown from a local showcase to become one of the most important hip-hop events of the year, and is commonly referred to as “Hip-Hop’s Family Reunion.”

The Action Summit at A3C powered by Hip Hop Caucus is two days of dedicated programming at the Auburn Avenue Research Library in the center of the festival stages and events in Atlanta. The programing includes a series of events and workshops featuring activists, academics, and artists that explore how to best address social justice challenges through community driven solutions and develop actionable initiatives for young people. Three major tracks for the Action Summit are Police Reform, Getting Out the Youth Vote, and Climate Change and Environmental Justice.

As part of the Action Summit, Hip Hop Caucus joined forces with the Center for Civic Innovation for the A3C Action Pitch National Competition to find, support, and invest in new, innovative ideas that use hip-hop culture as a vehicle to advance social justice and civic engagement. Five finalists will do their final pitches in front of judges and a national audience at the A3C Action Summit this evening. Finalists are competing for $10,000 in cash and business development training. More information on the pitch competition can be found here.

“Social justice movements need innovation and need the energy of young people to drive bold agendas,” said Liz Havstad, COO and Executive Director of Hip Hop Caucus, who will be one of the judges of the Pitch Competition. “Hip Hop Caucus invests in creative communities and young people to be the drivers of change through advocacy and non-partisan electoral organizing, and we are proud to bring empowerment to cultural spaces like the A3C Festival and Conference.”

The Action Summit at A3C powered by Hip Hop Caucus will also feature keynotes from No Malice, formerly of the acclaimed rap duo The Clipse, and Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President of Climate, Environmental Justice & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus.

“At this moment in our country, we must use hip hop – the artform and the culture – to help us organize our collective voices to create change,” said No Malice. “There is a moral voice in Hip Hop that speaks to injustice and struggle, and that is what we are tapping into at the Action Summit at A3C powered by Hip Hop Caucus, and it is what we are tapping into right now in my home state of Virginia to get young people out to vote in our election this November.”

For more information about Hip Hop Caucus at A3C, please visit www.HipHopCaucus.org/A3C and www.a3cfestival.com/action-summit. You can also continue the conversation with us on social media, @HipHopCaucus on everything.

MEDIA CONTACT: Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-870-8476

ABOUT HIP HOP CAUCUSFormed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues affecting underserved and vulnerable communities. HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity.

###

 

Landmark bill enhances public health and participation in our democracy, while empowering our most vulnerable communities facing hardships

Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, released the statement below about The Environmental Justice Act of 2017, introduced yesterday by U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Rep. Raul Ruiz, M.D. (D-CA). The bill protects against potential executive actions to rollback basic public health protections and public input in decision-making, requires federal agencies to address environmental justice through agency actions and permitting decisions, and strengthens legal protections against environmental injustice for communities of color, low-income communities, and indigenous communities.

“We applaud Senator Booker and Congressman Ruiz for introducing the Environmental Justice Act of 2017 and call for its passage. This is a vital piece of legislation introduced at a time when our most vulnerable communities are under extreme hardships due to the reckless decisions of the current Administration, impacts we are seeing right now from climate change, ongoing disproportionate impacts from air and water pollution, and improper use and disposal of toxic chemicals by industry.”

“The common sense proposals outlined in this bill come from over 25 years of stakeholder engagement and bipartisan input. The bill provides basic protections, legal resources, and tools to empower local communities so that they can take their communities from surviving to thriving.”

“By strengthening our most vulnerable communities, we strengthen America.”

More information about the bill can be found here.

Mustafa Santiago Ali, SVP at Hip Hop Caucus, announcing the bill with Senator Booker and Rep Ruiz – October 24, 2017

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues impacting underserved and vulnerable communities . HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle, as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org. Follow HHC online @HipHopCaucus on all social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali joined Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. As a renowned speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator, he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, released the statement below about EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt’s anticipated move to repeal the Clean Power Plan.

“This backwards move is another clear indication that fossil fuel industry corporations have taken control of the Environmental Protection Agency. It simply does not make sense for our pocketbooks and health. Unfortunately our most vulnerable communities will face the brunt of this irresponsible decision, including disproportionate health impacts, while rich corporations that have control over the EPA will reap the profits.”

“The Trump Administration is failing on its obligation to protect the planet for future generations by ignoring what science is telling us. Without cutting the carbon pollution fueling climate change, we are only going to see stronger storms and more wildfires like the disasters that continue to ravage our country. They are also ignoring the economic opportunities the clean energy economy presents us with, and instead, choose to double and triple down on an already dying industry. The clean energy economy is here and the rest of the world is moving on without us. This puts us at a tremendous economic disadvantage both home and abroad.”

“Hip Hop Caucus urges states to continue carrying out their own plans to cut emissions and transition to 100% clean energy for all. We also urge the public to participate in the upcoming opportunities to refute this irresponsible move through public comment. Instead of favoring polluters, we need to protect the health and prosperity of the American people. Please know that this dangerous move by Scott Pruitt will not be met without a fight.”

###

About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues affecting underserved and vulnerable communities. HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle, as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org and by following @HipHopCaucus on social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali is a renowned national speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. He joined the Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Throughout his career he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

Washington, D.C. – October 28, 2017 – Rev.  Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the “Sandy5” march calling for leaders to take action on climate change and accelerate a just transition to clean energy. 

“We march to remember victims of Superstorm Sandy and say never again. We demand that our leaders act now to address the increasing impacts of climate change and help our communities move from surviving to thriving. Without cutting the carbon pollution fueling climate change, we are going to see stronger storms, like Sandy, Harvey, Irma, and Maria . We need to stop supporting the fossil fuel industry and stand up to the leaders at the federal, state, and local levels that value profit over people. Solutions to climate change exist and we can no longer wait to act – the time is now to protect our communities and the planet for future generations.”

###

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Washington, D.C. – Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the tragic and senseless attack at the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival in Las Vegas last night. The terrorist attack left over 50 people dead and 400 injured, in the most deadly mass shooting in modern United States history.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the victims that lost their lives from this absolute senseless attack. It is hard to comprehend why this would happen and we grieve with the families and friends of the victims in this dark time. They will never be forgotten.”

“We call for a renewed focus and immediate action on America’s gun policies and mental health issues. Weapons created for the battlefield are easily accessible in this country, including high powered rifles with extended magazines. Mental health issues too often go unaddressed and combined with unlimited access to increasingly sophisticated and powerful weapons, we continue to see tragedies unfold. From Columbine High School, to Sandy Hook Elementary School, to Pulse Nightclub, now Mandalay Bay on the Las Vegas strip – enough is enough. Let us come together and call on our elected leaders to take action that is needed to protect us against these senseless acts as much as possible. More can be done. What is it going to take for our leaders to act? How many more innocent people need to die and how many more families need to be destroyed?”

“Music is a unifying force – people attend concerts because of their shared love of music, whether it is country or hip hop. It is truly devastating to see that love and unity at a concert disrupted by such a despicable act. Instilling fear in the public through mass shootings is the definition of terrorism. Let us grieve now and also use this moment to come together to call for meaningful action to protect ourselves, family members, friends, neighbors, and fellow citizens in the future.”

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People’s Climate Music Releases New Single Featuring Jeremih and Antonique Smith to Move People to Act on Climate, Proceeds to Storm Relief Efforts

Cover of the 1969 Beatles iconic song inspires hope to solve climate change and support communities impacted by hurricanes and environmental disaster

Washington, D.C., September 22, 2017 – Today Hip Hop Caucus, creator of People’s Climate Music, debuted “Here Comes the Sun,” on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal and Amazon Music, featuring Grammy nominated singers Jeremih and Antonique Smith. The inspirational track is a cover of the song written by George Harrison that was first released on the Beatles’ 1969 pivotal album, Abbey Road. All profits from the record are being donated to Hurricanes Harvey and Irma relief efforts in frontline communities. Through People’s Climate Music, Hip Hop Caucus organizes diverse and influential artists to create music that inspires action on the climate crisis, with a goal of leading the way to a sustainable, 100% clean energy future for our planet.

Jeremih and Antonique Smith’s interpretation of “Here Comes the Sun” is a message about our humanity, as people of all walks of life come together to help each other in disaster and crises.

“We reprised the song in a way that keeps the essence of the original version, and we appropriated it as a message of hope to those today who are working on the right side of history– for justice, equality, and a healthy planet,” said Jeremih.

The song is accompanied by a call to action for people to take at www.PeoplesClimateMusic.com/HCTS. A promise to band together for the immediate and long-term recovery work from Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, and to prepare vulnerable communities for climate adaptation and an equitable transition to a clean economy, the project calls on people to use their voices to put pressure on our world leaders to act on climate change now.

“Poor communities and communities of color are impacted first and worst by the climate crisis,” said Antonique Smith. “I’ve traveled across the country meeting with communities on the frontlines of pollution and environmental disasters, and the purpose of our revival of ‘Here Comes the Sun’ is to bring more attention and support to their work and leadership on the frontlines.”

To mark People’s Climate Music’s third anniversary, a trailer for the “Here Comes the Sun” music video featuring Jeremih and Antonique Smith will premiere during Climate Week NYC 2017 at Hip Hop Caucus’ Frontline Communities – The Untold Stories of The Climate Movement event on Sunday, September 24th at The New School.

“With the power of culture and artists who have the ability to reach people everywhere, we are expanding the climate movement,” explained Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President and CEO of Hip Hop Caucus. “We must build a movement big enough and powerful enough to drive a transition to 100% clean energy for all. A healthy planet requires justice and equality so that everyone’s communities are clean, healthy, and safe places to live.”

“Here Comes the Sun” is available on all streaming and online stores including iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal and Amazon Music. Find the song at: www.PeoplesClimateMusic.com/HCTS For more information about People’s Climate Music visit peoplesclimatemusic.com or to continue the social conversation, visit Facebook.com/hiphopcaucus.

About Hip Hop Caucus (www.hiphopcaucus.org) Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting underserved communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders.

About People’s Climate Music (www.peoplesclimatemusic.com) Climate change is the most significant global issue of our time. The adverse impacts of climate change can be seen in unsafe water supplies, disproportionate pollution in poor communities, and extreme weather like hurricanes, heat waves and drought. It’s only going to get worse unless we work together to create a big change. Over the past decade, Hip Hop Caucus has been building support for the climate movement among cultural influencers. People’s Climate Music is a large-scale project that is expanding the base and scope of the climate movement, reaching deeper into popular consciousness to drive climate action among diverse constituencies, and inspiring action.

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Hip Hop Caucus Condemns Trump Administration’s Latest Moves at EPA, while Vulnerable Communities Deal With Impacts of Severe Storms

Hip Hop Caucus’ non-partisan initiative reaches young voters and voters of color with Virginia cultural influencers issuing a calls to action to register to  vote by October 16th deadline

Washington D.C.Respect My Vote! kicked off a final push to make sure people across the Commonwealth are registered to vote ahead of the November 7th elections. The campaign is promoting young Virginia media, artist, activist and social media influencers as spokespeople.

Last Friday marked the 100th birthday of the civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer and the campaign joined the civil rights community to call for people to honor her by registering to vote. Rev Yearwood, Hip Hop Caucus President & CEO, wrote an op-ed in RVA Magazine connecting her spirit to the importance of voting in the upcoming Virginia elections. This year’s Virginia campaign is being lead by No Malice, formerly of the acclaimed rap duo The Clipse and Virginia Beach native. The deadline to register in Virginia is October 16th, and people can do so by visiting RespectMyVote.com.

For more information and to stay updated, check out:

Respect My Vote! was first launched in 2008 and has since engaged millions of people during election cycles throughout the United States . Through partnerships with nonprofits, businesses, media and entertainment companies, and celebrity spokespeople, the campaign focuses on voter registration, voter education, get-out-the-vote, and voter rights . Spokespeople have included Vic Mensa, T.I., Charlamagne tha God, Keke Palmer, 2 Chainz, Amber Rose, Future, and hundreds of other artists and community leaders. Respect My Vote! is a non-partisan, voter registration, education, and mobilization campaign of the Hip Hop Caucus

Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues affecting underserved and vulnerable communities. HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle, as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity . More at HipHopCaucus.org.

###

MEDIA CONTACT: Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

At one of Hip Hop’s largest annual events, Hip Hop Caucus is working with activists, academics, and artists to drive social justice and environmental solutions through advocacy and non-partisan electoral organizing

Atlanta, Georgia – October 6, 2017 – This week at one of the world’s largest hip hop festivals,  Hip Hop Caucus has partnered with A3C to train and organize young people on the power of art, music, and hip hop culture advance social justice and civic engagement. Founded in 2005, A3C has grown from a local showcase to become one of the most important hip-hop events of the year, and is commonly referred to as “Hip-Hop’s Family Reunion.”

The Action Summit at A3C powered by Hip Hop Caucus is two days of dedicated programming at the Auburn Avenue Research Library in the center of the festival stages and events in Atlanta. The programing includes a series of events and workshops featuring activists, academics, and artists that explore how to best address social justice challenges through community driven solutions and develop actionable initiatives for young people. Three major tracks for the Action Summit are Police Reform, Getting Out the Youth Vote, and Climate Change and Environmental Justice.

As part of the Action Summit, Hip Hop Caucus joined forces with the Center for Civic Innovation for the A3C Action Pitch National Competition to find, support, and invest in new, innovative ideas that use hip-hop culture as a vehicle to advance social justice and civic engagement. Five finalists will do their final pitches in front of judges and a national audience at the A3C Action Summit this evening. Finalists are competing for $10,000 in cash and business development training. More information on the pitch competition can be found here.

“Social justice movements need innovation and need the energy of young people to drive bold agendas,” said Liz Havstad, COO and Executive Director of Hip Hop Caucus, who will be one of the judges of the Pitch Competition. “Hip Hop Caucus invests in creative communities and young people to be the drivers of change through advocacy and non-partisan electoral organizing, and we are proud to bring empowerment to cultural spaces like the A3C Festival and Conference.”

The Action Summit at A3C powered by Hip Hop Caucus will also feature keynotes from No Malice, formerly of the acclaimed rap duo The Clipse, and Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President of Climate, Environmental Justice & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus.

“At this moment in our country, we must use hip hop – the artform and the culture – to help us organize our collective voices to create change,” said No Malice. “There is a moral voice in Hip Hop that speaks to injustice and struggle, and that is what we are tapping into at the Action Summit at A3C powered by Hip Hop Caucus, and it is what we are tapping into right now in my home state of Virginia to get young people out to vote in our election this November.”

For more information about Hip Hop Caucus at A3C, please visit www.HipHopCaucus.org/A3C and www.a3cfestival.com/action-summit. You can also continue the conversation with us on social media, @HipHopCaucus on everything.

MEDIA CONTACT: Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-870-8476

ABOUT HIP HOP CAUCUSFormed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues affecting underserved and vulnerable communities. HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity.

###

 

Landmark bill enhances public health and participation in our democracy, while empowering our most vulnerable communities facing hardships

Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, released the statement below about The Environmental Justice Act of 2017, introduced yesterday by U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Rep. Raul Ruiz, M.D. (D-CA). The bill protects against potential executive actions to rollback basic public health protections and public input in decision-making, requires federal agencies to address environmental justice through agency actions and permitting decisions, and strengthens legal protections against environmental injustice for communities of color, low-income communities, and indigenous communities.

“We applaud Senator Booker and Congressman Ruiz for introducing the Environmental Justice Act of 2017 and call for its passage. This is a vital piece of legislation introduced at a time when our most vulnerable communities are under extreme hardships due to the reckless decisions of the current Administration, impacts we are seeing right now from climate change, ongoing disproportionate impacts from air and water pollution, and improper use and disposal of toxic chemicals by industry.”

“The common sense proposals outlined in this bill come from over 25 years of stakeholder engagement and bipartisan input. The bill provides basic protections, legal resources, and tools to empower local communities so that they can take their communities from surviving to thriving.”

“By strengthening our most vulnerable communities, we strengthen America.”

More information about the bill can be found here.

Mustafa Santiago Ali, SVP at Hip Hop Caucus, announcing the bill with Senator Booker and Rep Ruiz – October 24, 2017

###

About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues impacting underserved and vulnerable communities . HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle, as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org. Follow HHC online @HipHopCaucus on all social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali joined Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. As a renowned speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator, he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, released the statement below about EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt’s anticipated move to repeal the Clean Power Plan.

“This backwards move is another clear indication that fossil fuel industry corporations have taken control of the Environmental Protection Agency. It simply does not make sense for our pocketbooks and health. Unfortunately our most vulnerable communities will face the brunt of this irresponsible decision, including disproportionate health impacts, while rich corporations that have control over the EPA will reap the profits.”

“The Trump Administration is failing on its obligation to protect the planet for future generations by ignoring what science is telling us. Without cutting the carbon pollution fueling climate change, we are only going to see stronger storms and more wildfires like the disasters that continue to ravage our country. They are also ignoring the economic opportunities the clean energy economy presents us with, and instead, choose to double and triple down on an already dying industry. The clean energy economy is here and the rest of the world is moving on without us. This puts us at a tremendous economic disadvantage both home and abroad.”

“Hip Hop Caucus urges states to continue carrying out their own plans to cut emissions and transition to 100% clean energy for all. We also urge the public to participate in the upcoming opportunities to refute this irresponsible move through public comment. Instead of favoring polluters, we need to protect the health and prosperity of the American people. Please know that this dangerous move by Scott Pruitt will not be met without a fight.”

###

About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues affecting underserved and vulnerable communities. HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle, as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org and by following @HipHopCaucus on social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali is a renowned national speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. He joined the Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Throughout his career he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

Washington, D.C. – October 28, 2017 – Rev.  Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the “Sandy5” march calling for leaders to take action on climate change and accelerate a just transition to clean energy. 

“We march to remember victims of Superstorm Sandy and say never again. We demand that our leaders act now to address the increasing impacts of climate change and help our communities move from surviving to thriving. Without cutting the carbon pollution fueling climate change, we are going to see stronger storms, like Sandy, Harvey, Irma, and Maria . We need to stop supporting the fossil fuel industry and stand up to the leaders at the federal, state, and local levels that value profit over people. Solutions to climate change exist and we can no longer wait to act – the time is now to protect our communities and the planet for future generations.”

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Washington, D.C. – Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the tragic and senseless attack at the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival in Las Vegas last night. The terrorist attack left over 50 people dead and 400 injured, in the most deadly mass shooting in modern United States history.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the victims that lost their lives from this absolute senseless attack. It is hard to comprehend why this would happen and we grieve with the families and friends of the victims in this dark time. They will never be forgotten.”

“We call for a renewed focus and immediate action on America’s gun policies and mental health issues. Weapons created for the battlefield are easily accessible in this country, including high powered rifles with extended magazines. Mental health issues too often go unaddressed and combined with unlimited access to increasingly sophisticated and powerful weapons, we continue to see tragedies unfold. From Columbine High School, to Sandy Hook Elementary School, to Pulse Nightclub, now Mandalay Bay on the Las Vegas strip – enough is enough. Let us come together and call on our elected leaders to take action that is needed to protect us against these senseless acts as much as possible. More can be done. What is it going to take for our leaders to act? How many more innocent people need to die and how many more families need to be destroyed?”

“Music is a unifying force – people attend concerts because of their shared love of music, whether it is country or hip hop. It is truly devastating to see that love and unity at a concert disrupted by such a despicable act. Instilling fear in the public through mass shootings is the definition of terrorism. Let us grieve now and also use this moment to come together to call for meaningful action to protect ourselves, family members, friends, neighbors, and fellow citizens in the future.”

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People’s Climate Music Releases New Single Featuring Jeremih and Antonique Smith to Move People to Act on Climate, Proceeds to Storm Relief Efforts

Cover of the 1969 Beatles iconic song inspires hope to solve climate change and support communities impacted by hurricanes and environmental disaster

Washington, D.C., September 22, 2017 – Today Hip Hop Caucus, creator of People’s Climate Music, debuted “Here Comes the Sun,” on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal and Amazon Music, featuring Grammy nominated singers Jeremih and Antonique Smith. The inspirational track is a cover of the song written by George Harrison that was first released on the Beatles’ 1969 pivotal album, Abbey Road. All profits from the record are being donated to Hurricanes Harvey and Irma relief efforts in frontline communities. Through People’s Climate Music, Hip Hop Caucus organizes diverse and influential artists to create music that inspires action on the climate crisis, with a goal of leading the way to a sustainable, 100% clean energy future for our planet.

Jeremih and Antonique Smith’s interpretation of “Here Comes the Sun” is a message about our humanity, as people of all walks of life come together to help each other in disaster and crises.

“We reprised the song in a way that keeps the essence of the original version, and we appropriated it as a message of hope to those today who are working on the right side of history– for justice, equality, and a healthy planet,” said Jeremih.

The song is accompanied by a call to action for people to take at www.PeoplesClimateMusic.com/HCTS. A promise to band together for the immediate and long-term recovery work from Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, and to prepare vulnerable communities for climate adaptation and an equitable transition to a clean economy, the project calls on people to use their voices to put pressure on our world leaders to act on climate change now.

“Poor communities and communities of color are impacted first and worst by the climate crisis,” said Antonique Smith. “I’ve traveled across the country meeting with communities on the frontlines of pollution and environmental disasters, and the purpose of our revival of ‘Here Comes the Sun’ is to bring more attention and support to their work and leadership on the frontlines.”

To mark People’s Climate Music’s third anniversary, a trailer for the “Here Comes the Sun” music video featuring Jeremih and Antonique Smith will premiere during Climate Week NYC 2017 at Hip Hop Caucus’ Frontline Communities – The Untold Stories of The Climate Movement event on Sunday, September 24th at The New School.

“With the power of culture and artists who have the ability to reach people everywhere, we are expanding the climate movement,” explained Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President and CEO of Hip Hop Caucus. “We must build a movement big enough and powerful enough to drive a transition to 100% clean energy for all. A healthy planet requires justice and equality so that everyone’s communities are clean, healthy, and safe places to live.”

“Here Comes the Sun” is available on all streaming and online stores including iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal and Amazon Music. Find the song at: www.PeoplesClimateMusic.com/HCTS For more information about People’s Climate Music visit peoplesclimatemusic.com or to continue the social conversation, visit Facebook.com/hiphopcaucus.

About Hip Hop Caucus (www.hiphopcaucus.org) Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting underserved communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders.

About People’s Climate Music (www.peoplesclimatemusic.com) Climate change is the most significant global issue of our time. The adverse impacts of climate change can be seen in unsafe water supplies, disproportionate pollution in poor communities, and extreme weather like hurricanes, heat waves and drought. It’s only going to get worse unless we work together to create a big change. Over the past decade, Hip Hop Caucus has been building support for the climate movement among cultural influencers. People’s Climate Music is a large-scale project that is expanding the base and scope of the climate movement, reaching deeper into popular consciousness to drive climate action among diverse constituencies, and inspiring action.

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HIP HOP CAUCUS PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 5, 2017
MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

Washington, D.C. – Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the below statement in response to the Trump Administration’s decision to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program:

“We the people will not stand for this Administration’s continued blatant disregard for our most vulnerable communities, cruel actions that will tear apart thousands of families, and fanning of the flames of hate and bigotry. The decision to end DACA today is so cruel, even this Administration decided to wait a few days until after a natural disaster devastated millions of our brothers and sisters on the Gulf Coast to announce it. Ending DACA will certainly be a man-made disaster, one that will have drastic negative implications on America’s families, economy, and moral fabric for years to come. This decision also comes on the heels of Charlottesville, where the whole world saw America’s ugliest side. We will continue to relentlessly counter this hate and bigotry supported by this Administration with love. All power to the people.”

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting under-served and vulnerable communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org.

HIP HOP CAUCUS PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 3, 2017
MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

New Orleans Community, Hip Hop Artists, and Activists Commemorate 12th Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, Call for a Just Harvey Recovery for All

New Orleans, LA – Today the Hip Hop Caucus, New Orleans Katrina Commemoration Foundation, Nuthin’ But Fire Records, Q93, People’s Climate Music, and many other community partners hosted the 12th Annual Hurricane Katrina March and Second Line.

The day’s events began with a healing ceremony next to the breached levee in the Lower Ninth Ward, followed by a march through the streets which fed into a second line. The second line ended with a rally at Hunter’s Field hosted by Wild Wayne of Q93 and renowned New Orleans’ poet Sunni Patterson. The rally featured remarks and performances by a variety of prominent community and cultural leaders, including Mia X, Sess 4-5, Roi Anthony, Hustlaz, Lady Red, Yung Pro, Shorty, Wildboy Woody, and DJ7.

This event serves as the largest annual community based commemoration of the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and shows first-hand the consequences of climate disasters on our communities. Each year this event honors the resiliency of the people, remembers the lives lost, and encourages further support for the communities most devastated by Hurricane Katrina. This year organizers also called for a just and equitable recovery from Hurricane Harvey which caused widespread flooding in southeast Texas and southwest Louisiana this past week.

“The people of New Orleans will not forget those who were lost 12 years ago and it is incredibly powerful to march in the same streets where your relatives died,” said Rev Yearwood, President & CEO, Hip Hop Caucus. “This anniversary is also a moment of solidarity, as millions are currently being impacted by Hurricane Harvey in Texas and Louisiana. Let us help our brothers and sisters in the Gulf get through this historic event, just as the City of Houston did by taking in over 100,000 people impacted by Hurricane Katrina 12 years ago. In that same spirit, we extend our hands and stand for a just recovery as we begin to heal and rebuild.”

Participants throughout the day also highlighted the ongoing struggle of families to live and thrive in post-Katrina New Orleans. Participants also called on leaders to do more to better prepare our most vulnerable communities to withstand future natural disasters by investing in smarter infrastructure and addressing climate change.

“We will never forget Katrina and what it did to our people,” said Sess 4-5, event organizer, leader of Hip Hop Caucus New Orleans, and recording artist and community activist. “We also want to shine a light on the fact that many people impacted by the storm are still not getting the help they deserve, even 12 years after it hit. We will keep on marching every year to remember those lost, bring our community closer together, and hold our elected leaders accountable so that they can right the wrongs of the past and create a better future for all.”

Organizers asked participants, supporters, and leaders to:

  • Remember: by calling on the state of Louisiana to make August 29 a holiday commemorating the lives lost in Katrina.
  • Right the wrongs: by calling for racial and economic justice so that in the face of disaster, the poor and people of color are not left without the ability to rebuild communities with good schools, good jobs, and good public health and safety.  
  • Say never again: by calling for action on climate change from our world’s leaders, otherwise we will only see more of these extreme weather events like Hurricane Katrina and Harvey around the world.
  • Call for a just and equitable Harvey recovery and rebuild for all: The most vulnerable communities – including low-income and communities of color – are being hardest hit. Help support by visiting anothergulf.com/a-just-harvey-recovery.

For more options on how to support Harvey recovery efforts, please visit hiphopcaucus.org/hurricane-harvey.  

About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting underserved communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org.  

About New Orleans Katrina Commemoration Foundation: New Orleans Katrina Commemoration Foundation annually organizes the largest community-led remembrance event on the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, August 29th.

About the People’s Climate Music: People’s Climate Music is helping to expand the climate movement by organizing diverse and influential artists to create music and culture that inspires action to solve the biggest crisis humanity has ever faced – climate change. More at PeoplesClimateMusic.com.

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Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the impacts severe storms have on our most vulnerable communities, and the lack of prioritization and response they receive from this Administration, including recent reports that Administrator Scott Pruitt is relocating the offices of Environmental Justice and National Environmental Policy Act Compliance out of the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These offices were formed out of a set of recommendations from stakeholders over the years under both Republican and Democratic Administrations. They provide critical expertise, protection of public health, and ensure that input and needs of all communities are fully considered by the agency, including ahead of, during, and following disasters.

“Moving these offices is very alarming, especially in the immediate aftermath of Harvey and looking ahead at Irma. This is another example of how this Administration is dissecting and dismantling the agency with a scalpel to favor industry polluters instead of protecting the health and prosperity of the American people. These actions politicize and weaken these offices, and continue to show a lack of connection to the voices and input from our most vulnerable communities by this Administration. This is at a time when the current leadership should be moving forward on the expansion of these offices to address the vastly disproportionate environmental impacts happening across the country to our most vulnerable communities – including communities of color, low income communities, and indigenous populations.”

“America’s most vulnerable communities are hardest hit and often undervalued, underestimated and marginalized by decision makers following storms like Harvey. For decades communities like Port Arthur and the Manchester neighborhood in Houston have been breathing in heavy toxic air that literally takes their breath away. Following Harvey, they now face even stronger first-hand exposure to harmful and unknown chemicals in their air, water, and land. First responders to the disaster areas are also exposed to these harmful toxins as they put their lives on the line to save lives and property. Vulnerable communities are also not typically prioritized in rebuilding efforts. They are often relocated to the most undesirable areas with the greatest risk to future public health threats and face many disproportionate hurdles as they attempt to recover financially.”

“Unfortunately, thus far the Trump Administration has not shown that they care about our most vulnerable communities. They have also shown an unwillingness to consider the impacts of an increasingly changing climate into their planning, policies, and priority setting for the American people. The current Administration has proposed drastic budget cuts that are not connected to the reality and dangers that vulnerable communities face, or what science is telling us. Their proposed cuts to NOAA, FEMA, EPA, and HUD in particular will have a direct correlation to the preparedness, response, and recovery within these communities hardest hit by Harvey and other severe storms of increasing magnitude, like Hurricane Irma approaching the U.S. mainland.”

“Vulnerable communities are forced into even more desperate situations, where their existing challenges are significantly compounded by these stronger storms and lack of foresight, empathy, and action by this Administration. This is literally putting people’s lives in jeopardy. This is the time we need to recognize the power, solutions, and opportunities to better prepare, respond, and rebuild for all. We need to work together to take our most vulnerable communities from surviving to thriving.”

To support frontline communities recovering from Harvey, please visit #AJustHarveyRecovery and Hip Hop Caucus’ resource page here.

For more, please be sure to check out Mustafa’s latest appearance on AM Joy, video interview with Robert Reich, and interview on the Politically Re-Active podcast with Kamau Bell and Hari Kondabolu. You can also keep up with him on Twitter (@EJinAction).

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative network, HHC addresses core issues impacting under-served and vulnerable communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org. Follow HHC online @HipHopCaucus on all social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali is a renowned national speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. He joined the Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Throughout his career he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org202-506-5882

Hip Hop Caucus Condemns Trump Administration’s Latest Moves at EPA, while Vulnerable Communities Deal With Impacts of Severe Storms

Hip Hop Caucus’ non-partisan initiative reaches young voters and voters of color with Virginia cultural influencers issuing a calls to action to register to  vote by October 16th deadline

Washington D.C.Respect My Vote! kicked off a final push to make sure people across the Commonwealth are registered to vote ahead of the November 7th elections. The campaign is promoting young Virginia media, artist, activist and social media influencers as spokespeople.

Last Friday marked the 100th birthday of the civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer and the campaign joined the civil rights community to call for people to honor her by registering to vote. Rev Yearwood, Hip Hop Caucus President & CEO, wrote an op-ed in RVA Magazine connecting her spirit to the importance of voting in the upcoming Virginia elections. This year’s Virginia campaign is being lead by No Malice, formerly of the acclaimed rap duo The Clipse and Virginia Beach native. The deadline to register in Virginia is October 16th, and people can do so by visiting RespectMyVote.com.

For more information and to stay updated, check out:

Respect My Vote! was first launched in 2008 and has since engaged millions of people during election cycles throughout the United States . Through partnerships with nonprofits, businesses, media and entertainment companies, and celebrity spokespeople, the campaign focuses on voter registration, voter education, get-out-the-vote, and voter rights . Spokespeople have included Vic Mensa, T.I., Charlamagne tha God, Keke Palmer, 2 Chainz, Amber Rose, Future, and hundreds of other artists and community leaders. Respect My Vote! is a non-partisan, voter registration, education, and mobilization campaign of the Hip Hop Caucus

Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues affecting underserved and vulnerable communities. HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle, as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity . More at HipHopCaucus.org.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

At one of Hip Hop’s largest annual events, Hip Hop Caucus is working with activists, academics, and artists to drive social justice and environmental solutions through advocacy and non-partisan electoral organizing

Atlanta, Georgia – October 6, 2017 – This week at one of the world’s largest hip hop festivals,  Hip Hop Caucus has partnered with A3C to train and organize young people on the power of art, music, and hip hop culture advance social justice and civic engagement. Founded in 2005, A3C has grown from a local showcase to become one of the most important hip-hop events of the year, and is commonly referred to as “Hip-Hop’s Family Reunion.”

The Action Summit at A3C powered by Hip Hop Caucus is two days of dedicated programming at the Auburn Avenue Research Library in the center of the festival stages and events in Atlanta. The programing includes a series of events and workshops featuring activists, academics, and artists that explore how to best address social justice challenges through community driven solutions and develop actionable initiatives for young people. Three major tracks for the Action Summit are Police Reform, Getting Out the Youth Vote, and Climate Change and Environmental Justice.

As part of the Action Summit, Hip Hop Caucus joined forces with the Center for Civic Innovation for the A3C Action Pitch National Competition to find, support, and invest in new, innovative ideas that use hip-hop culture as a vehicle to advance social justice and civic engagement. Five finalists will do their final pitches in front of judges and a national audience at the A3C Action Summit this evening. Finalists are competing for $10,000 in cash and business development training. More information on the pitch competition can be found here.

“Social justice movements need innovation and need the energy of young people to drive bold agendas,” said Liz Havstad, COO and Executive Director of Hip Hop Caucus, who will be one of the judges of the Pitch Competition. “Hip Hop Caucus invests in creative communities and young people to be the drivers of change through advocacy and non-partisan electoral organizing, and we are proud to bring empowerment to cultural spaces like the A3C Festival and Conference.”

The Action Summit at A3C powered by Hip Hop Caucus will also feature keynotes from No Malice, formerly of the acclaimed rap duo The Clipse, and Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President of Climate, Environmental Justice & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus.

“At this moment in our country, we must use hip hop – the artform and the culture – to help us organize our collective voices to create change,” said No Malice. “There is a moral voice in Hip Hop that speaks to injustice and struggle, and that is what we are tapping into at the Action Summit at A3C powered by Hip Hop Caucus, and it is what we are tapping into right now in my home state of Virginia to get young people out to vote in our election this November.”

For more information about Hip Hop Caucus at A3C, please visit www.HipHopCaucus.org/A3C and www.a3cfestival.com/action-summit. You can also continue the conversation with us on social media, @HipHopCaucus on everything.

MEDIA CONTACT: Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-870-8476

ABOUT HIP HOP CAUCUSFormed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues affecting underserved and vulnerable communities. HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity.

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Landmark bill enhances public health and participation in our democracy, while empowering our most vulnerable communities facing hardships

Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, released the statement below about The Environmental Justice Act of 2017, introduced yesterday by U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Rep. Raul Ruiz, M.D. (D-CA). The bill protects against potential executive actions to rollback basic public health protections and public input in decision-making, requires federal agencies to address environmental justice through agency actions and permitting decisions, and strengthens legal protections against environmental injustice for communities of color, low-income communities, and indigenous communities.

“We applaud Senator Booker and Congressman Ruiz for introducing the Environmental Justice Act of 2017 and call for its passage. This is a vital piece of legislation introduced at a time when our most vulnerable communities are under extreme hardships due to the reckless decisions of the current Administration, impacts we are seeing right now from climate change, ongoing disproportionate impacts from air and water pollution, and improper use and disposal of toxic chemicals by industry.”

“The common sense proposals outlined in this bill come from over 25 years of stakeholder engagement and bipartisan input. The bill provides basic protections, legal resources, and tools to empower local communities so that they can take their communities from surviving to thriving.”

“By strengthening our most vulnerable communities, we strengthen America.”

More information about the bill can be found here.

Mustafa Santiago Ali, SVP at Hip Hop Caucus, announcing the bill with Senator Booker and Rep Ruiz – October 24, 2017

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues impacting underserved and vulnerable communities . HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle, as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org. Follow HHC online @HipHopCaucus on all social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali joined Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. As a renowned speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator, he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, released the statement below about EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt’s anticipated move to repeal the Clean Power Plan.

“This backwards move is another clear indication that fossil fuel industry corporations have taken control of the Environmental Protection Agency. It simply does not make sense for our pocketbooks and health. Unfortunately our most vulnerable communities will face the brunt of this irresponsible decision, including disproportionate health impacts, while rich corporations that have control over the EPA will reap the profits.”

“The Trump Administration is failing on its obligation to protect the planet for future generations by ignoring what science is telling us. Without cutting the carbon pollution fueling climate change, we are only going to see stronger storms and more wildfires like the disasters that continue to ravage our country. They are also ignoring the economic opportunities the clean energy economy presents us with, and instead, choose to double and triple down on an already dying industry. The clean energy economy is here and the rest of the world is moving on without us. This puts us at a tremendous economic disadvantage both home and abroad.”

“Hip Hop Caucus urges states to continue carrying out their own plans to cut emissions and transition to 100% clean energy for all. We also urge the public to participate in the upcoming opportunities to refute this irresponsible move through public comment. Instead of favoring polluters, we need to protect the health and prosperity of the American people. Please know that this dangerous move by Scott Pruitt will not be met without a fight.”

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues affecting underserved and vulnerable communities. HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle, as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org and by following @HipHopCaucus on social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali is a renowned national speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. He joined the Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Throughout his career he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

Washington, D.C. – October 28, 2017 – Rev.  Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the “Sandy5” march calling for leaders to take action on climate change and accelerate a just transition to clean energy. 

“We march to remember victims of Superstorm Sandy and say never again. We demand that our leaders act now to address the increasing impacts of climate change and help our communities move from surviving to thriving. Without cutting the carbon pollution fueling climate change, we are going to see stronger storms, like Sandy, Harvey, Irma, and Maria . We need to stop supporting the fossil fuel industry and stand up to the leaders at the federal, state, and local levels that value profit over people. Solutions to climate change exist and we can no longer wait to act – the time is now to protect our communities and the planet for future generations.”

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Washington, D.C. – Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the tragic and senseless attack at the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival in Las Vegas last night. The terrorist attack left over 50 people dead and 400 injured, in the most deadly mass shooting in modern United States history.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the victims that lost their lives from this absolute senseless attack. It is hard to comprehend why this would happen and we grieve with the families and friends of the victims in this dark time. They will never be forgotten.”

“We call for a renewed focus and immediate action on America’s gun policies and mental health issues. Weapons created for the battlefield are easily accessible in this country, including high powered rifles with extended magazines. Mental health issues too often go unaddressed and combined with unlimited access to increasingly sophisticated and powerful weapons, we continue to see tragedies unfold. From Columbine High School, to Sandy Hook Elementary School, to Pulse Nightclub, now Mandalay Bay on the Las Vegas strip – enough is enough. Let us come together and call on our elected leaders to take action that is needed to protect us against these senseless acts as much as possible. More can be done. What is it going to take for our leaders to act? How many more innocent people need to die and how many more families need to be destroyed?”

“Music is a unifying force – people attend concerts because of their shared love of music, whether it is country or hip hop. It is truly devastating to see that love and unity at a concert disrupted by such a despicable act. Instilling fear in the public through mass shootings is the definition of terrorism. Let us grieve now and also use this moment to come together to call for meaningful action to protect ourselves, family members, friends, neighbors, and fellow citizens in the future.”

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People’s Climate Music Releases New Single Featuring Jeremih and Antonique Smith to Move People to Act on Climate, Proceeds to Storm Relief Efforts

Cover of the 1969 Beatles iconic song inspires hope to solve climate change and support communities impacted by hurricanes and environmental disaster

Washington, D.C., September 22, 2017 – Today Hip Hop Caucus, creator of People’s Climate Music, debuted “Here Comes the Sun,” on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal and Amazon Music, featuring Grammy nominated singers Jeremih and Antonique Smith. The inspirational track is a cover of the song written by George Harrison that was first released on the Beatles’ 1969 pivotal album, Abbey Road. All profits from the record are being donated to Hurricanes Harvey and Irma relief efforts in frontline communities. Through People’s Climate Music, Hip Hop Caucus organizes diverse and influential artists to create music that inspires action on the climate crisis, with a goal of leading the way to a sustainable, 100% clean energy future for our planet.

Jeremih and Antonique Smith’s interpretation of “Here Comes the Sun” is a message about our humanity, as people of all walks of life come together to help each other in disaster and crises.

“We reprised the song in a way that keeps the essence of the original version, and we appropriated it as a message of hope to those today who are working on the right side of history– for justice, equality, and a healthy planet,” said Jeremih.

The song is accompanied by a call to action for people to take at www.PeoplesClimateMusic.com/HCTS. A promise to band together for the immediate and long-term recovery work from Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, and to prepare vulnerable communities for climate adaptation and an equitable transition to a clean economy, the project calls on people to use their voices to put pressure on our world leaders to act on climate change now.

“Poor communities and communities of color are impacted first and worst by the climate crisis,” said Antonique Smith. “I’ve traveled across the country meeting with communities on the frontlines of pollution and environmental disasters, and the purpose of our revival of ‘Here Comes the Sun’ is to bring more attention and support to their work and leadership on the frontlines.”

To mark People’s Climate Music’s third anniversary, a trailer for the “Here Comes the Sun” music video featuring Jeremih and Antonique Smith will premiere during Climate Week NYC 2017 at Hip Hop Caucus’ Frontline Communities – The Untold Stories of The Climate Movement event on Sunday, September 24th at The New School.

“With the power of culture and artists who have the ability to reach people everywhere, we are expanding the climate movement,” explained Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President and CEO of Hip Hop Caucus. “We must build a movement big enough and powerful enough to drive a transition to 100% clean energy for all. A healthy planet requires justice and equality so that everyone’s communities are clean, healthy, and safe places to live.”

“Here Comes the Sun” is available on all streaming and online stores including iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal and Amazon Music. Find the song at: www.PeoplesClimateMusic.com/HCTS For more information about People’s Climate Music visit peoplesclimatemusic.com or to continue the social conversation, visit Facebook.com/hiphopcaucus.

About Hip Hop Caucus (www.hiphopcaucus.org) Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting underserved communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders.

About People’s Climate Music (www.peoplesclimatemusic.com) Climate change is the most significant global issue of our time. The adverse impacts of climate change can be seen in unsafe water supplies, disproportionate pollution in poor communities, and extreme weather like hurricanes, heat waves and drought. It’s only going to get worse unless we work together to create a big change. Over the past decade, Hip Hop Caucus has been building support for the climate movement among cultural influencers. People’s Climate Music is a large-scale project that is expanding the base and scope of the climate movement, reaching deeper into popular consciousness to drive climate action among diverse constituencies, and inspiring action.

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HIP HOP CAUCUS PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 5, 2017
MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

Washington, D.C. – Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the below statement in response to the Trump Administration’s decision to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program:

“We the people will not stand for this Administration’s continued blatant disregard for our most vulnerable communities, cruel actions that will tear apart thousands of families, and fanning of the flames of hate and bigotry. The decision to end DACA today is so cruel, even this Administration decided to wait a few days until after a natural disaster devastated millions of our brothers and sisters on the Gulf Coast to announce it. Ending DACA will certainly be a man-made disaster, one that will have drastic negative implications on America’s families, economy, and moral fabric for years to come. This decision also comes on the heels of Charlottesville, where the whole world saw America’s ugliest side. We will continue to relentlessly counter this hate and bigotry supported by this Administration with love. All power to the people.”

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting under-served and vulnerable communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org.

HIP HOP CAUCUS PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 3, 2017
MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

New Orleans Community, Hip Hop Artists, and Activists Commemorate 12th Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, Call for a Just Harvey Recovery for All

New Orleans, LA – Today the Hip Hop Caucus, New Orleans Katrina Commemoration Foundation, Nuthin’ But Fire Records, Q93, People’s Climate Music, and many other community partners hosted the 12th Annual Hurricane Katrina March and Second Line.

The day’s events began with a healing ceremony next to the breached levee in the Lower Ninth Ward, followed by a march through the streets which fed into a second line. The second line ended with a rally at Hunter’s Field hosted by Wild Wayne of Q93 and renowned New Orleans’ poet Sunni Patterson. The rally featured remarks and performances by a variety of prominent community and cultural leaders, including Mia X, Sess 4-5, Roi Anthony, Hustlaz, Lady Red, Yung Pro, Shorty, Wildboy Woody, and DJ7.

This event serves as the largest annual community based commemoration of the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and shows first-hand the consequences of climate disasters on our communities. Each year this event honors the resiliency of the people, remembers the lives lost, and encourages further support for the communities most devastated by Hurricane Katrina. This year organizers also called for a just and equitable recovery from Hurricane Harvey which caused widespread flooding in southeast Texas and southwest Louisiana this past week.

“The people of New Orleans will not forget those who were lost 12 years ago and it is incredibly powerful to march in the same streets where your relatives died,” said Rev Yearwood, President & CEO, Hip Hop Caucus. “This anniversary is also a moment of solidarity, as millions are currently being impacted by Hurricane Harvey in Texas and Louisiana. Let us help our brothers and sisters in the Gulf get through this historic event, just as the City of Houston did by taking in over 100,000 people impacted by Hurricane Katrina 12 years ago. In that same spirit, we extend our hands and stand for a just recovery as we begin to heal and rebuild.”

Participants throughout the day also highlighted the ongoing struggle of families to live and thrive in post-Katrina New Orleans. Participants also called on leaders to do more to better prepare our most vulnerable communities to withstand future natural disasters by investing in smarter infrastructure and addressing climate change.

“We will never forget Katrina and what it did to our people,” said Sess 4-5, event organizer, leader of Hip Hop Caucus New Orleans, and recording artist and community activist. “We also want to shine a light on the fact that many people impacted by the storm are still not getting the help they deserve, even 12 years after it hit. We will keep on marching every year to remember those lost, bring our community closer together, and hold our elected leaders accountable so that they can right the wrongs of the past and create a better future for all.”

Organizers asked participants, supporters, and leaders to:

  • Remember: by calling on the state of Louisiana to make August 29 a holiday commemorating the lives lost in Katrina.
  • Right the wrongs: by calling for racial and economic justice so that in the face of disaster, the poor and people of color are not left without the ability to rebuild communities with good schools, good jobs, and good public health and safety.  
  • Say never again: by calling for action on climate change from our world’s leaders, otherwise we will only see more of these extreme weather events like Hurricane Katrina and Harvey around the world.
  • Call for a just and equitable Harvey recovery and rebuild for all: The most vulnerable communities – including low-income and communities of color – are being hardest hit. Help support by visiting anothergulf.com/a-just-harvey-recovery.

For more options on how to support Harvey recovery efforts, please visit hiphopcaucus.org/hurricane-harvey.  

About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting underserved communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org.  

About New Orleans Katrina Commemoration Foundation: New Orleans Katrina Commemoration Foundation annually organizes the largest community-led remembrance event on the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, August 29th.

About the People’s Climate Music: People’s Climate Music is helping to expand the climate movement by organizing diverse and influential artists to create music and culture that inspires action to solve the biggest crisis humanity has ever faced – climate change. More at PeoplesClimateMusic.com.

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Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the impacts severe storms have on our most vulnerable communities, and the lack of prioritization and response they receive from this Administration, including recent reports that Administrator Scott Pruitt is relocating the offices of Environmental Justice and National Environmental Policy Act Compliance out of the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These offices were formed out of a set of recommendations from stakeholders over the years under both Republican and Democratic Administrations. They provide critical expertise, protection of public health, and ensure that input and needs of all communities are fully considered by the agency, including ahead of, during, and following disasters.

“Moving these offices is very alarming, especially in the immediate aftermath of Harvey and looking ahead at Irma. This is another example of how this Administration is dissecting and dismantling the agency with a scalpel to favor industry polluters instead of protecting the health and prosperity of the American people. These actions politicize and weaken these offices, and continue to show a lack of connection to the voices and input from our most vulnerable communities by this Administration. This is at a time when the current leadership should be moving forward on the expansion of these offices to address the vastly disproportionate environmental impacts happening across the country to our most vulnerable communities – including communities of color, low income communities, and indigenous populations.”

“America’s most vulnerable communities are hardest hit and often undervalued, underestimated and marginalized by decision makers following storms like Harvey. For decades communities like Port Arthur and the Manchester neighborhood in Houston have been breathing in heavy toxic air that literally takes their breath away. Following Harvey, they now face even stronger first-hand exposure to harmful and unknown chemicals in their air, water, and land. First responders to the disaster areas are also exposed to these harmful toxins as they put their lives on the line to save lives and property. Vulnerable communities are also not typically prioritized in rebuilding efforts. They are often relocated to the most undesirable areas with the greatest risk to future public health threats and face many disproportionate hurdles as they attempt to recover financially.”

“Unfortunately, thus far the Trump Administration has not shown that they care about our most vulnerable communities. They have also shown an unwillingness to consider the impacts of an increasingly changing climate into their planning, policies, and priority setting for the American people. The current Administration has proposed drastic budget cuts that are not connected to the reality and dangers that vulnerable communities face, or what science is telling us. Their proposed cuts to NOAA, FEMA, EPA, and HUD in particular will have a direct correlation to the preparedness, response, and recovery within these communities hardest hit by Harvey and other severe storms of increasing magnitude, like Hurricane Irma approaching the U.S. mainland.”

“Vulnerable communities are forced into even more desperate situations, where their existing challenges are significantly compounded by these stronger storms and lack of foresight, empathy, and action by this Administration. This is literally putting people’s lives in jeopardy. This is the time we need to recognize the power, solutions, and opportunities to better prepare, respond, and rebuild for all. We need to work together to take our most vulnerable communities from surviving to thriving.”

To support frontline communities recovering from Harvey, please visit #AJustHarveyRecovery and Hip Hop Caucus’ resource page here.

For more, please be sure to check out Mustafa’s latest appearance on AM Joy, video interview with Robert Reich, and interview on the Politically Re-Active podcast with Kamau Bell and Hari Kondabolu. You can also keep up with him on Twitter (@EJinAction).

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative network, HHC addresses core issues impacting under-served and vulnerable communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org. Follow HHC online @HipHopCaucus on all social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali is a renowned national speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. He joined the Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Throughout his career he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org202-506-5882

Hip Hop Caucus Condemns Trump Administration’s Latest Moves at EPA, while Vulnerable Communities Deal With Impacts of Severe Storms

Hip Hop Caucus’ non-partisan initiative reaches young voters and voters of color with Virginia cultural influencers issuing a calls to action to register to  vote by October 16th deadline

Washington D.C.Respect My Vote! kicked off a final push to make sure people across the Commonwealth are registered to vote ahead of the November 7th elections. The campaign is promoting young Virginia media, artist, activist and social media influencers as spokespeople.

Last Friday marked the 100th birthday of the civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer and the campaign joined the civil rights community to call for people to honor her by registering to vote. Rev Yearwood, Hip Hop Caucus President & CEO, wrote an op-ed in RVA Magazine connecting her spirit to the importance of voting in the upcoming Virginia elections. This year’s Virginia campaign is being lead by No Malice, formerly of the acclaimed rap duo The Clipse and Virginia Beach native. The deadline to register in Virginia is October 16th, and people can do so by visiting RespectMyVote.com.

For more information and to stay updated, check out:

Respect My Vote! was first launched in 2008 and has since engaged millions of people during election cycles throughout the United States . Through partnerships with nonprofits, businesses, media and entertainment companies, and celebrity spokespeople, the campaign focuses on voter registration, voter education, get-out-the-vote, and voter rights . Spokespeople have included Vic Mensa, T.I., Charlamagne tha God, Keke Palmer, 2 Chainz, Amber Rose, Future, and hundreds of other artists and community leaders. Respect My Vote! is a non-partisan, voter registration, education, and mobilization campaign of the Hip Hop Caucus

Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues affecting underserved and vulnerable communities. HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle, as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity . More at HipHopCaucus.org.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

At one of Hip Hop’s largest annual events, Hip Hop Caucus is working with activists, academics, and artists to drive social justice and environmental solutions through advocacy and non-partisan electoral organizing

Atlanta, Georgia – October 6, 2017 – This week at one of the world’s largest hip hop festivals,  Hip Hop Caucus has partnered with A3C to train and organize young people on the power of art, music, and hip hop culture advance social justice and civic engagement. Founded in 2005, A3C has grown from a local showcase to become one of the most important hip-hop events of the year, and is commonly referred to as “Hip-Hop’s Family Reunion.”

The Action Summit at A3C powered by Hip Hop Caucus is two days of dedicated programming at the Auburn Avenue Research Library in the center of the festival stages and events in Atlanta. The programing includes a series of events and workshops featuring activists, academics, and artists that explore how to best address social justice challenges through community driven solutions and develop actionable initiatives for young people. Three major tracks for the Action Summit are Police Reform, Getting Out the Youth Vote, and Climate Change and Environmental Justice.

As part of the Action Summit, Hip Hop Caucus joined forces with the Center for Civic Innovation for the A3C Action Pitch National Competition to find, support, and invest in new, innovative ideas that use hip-hop culture as a vehicle to advance social justice and civic engagement. Five finalists will do their final pitches in front of judges and a national audience at the A3C Action Summit this evening. Finalists are competing for $10,000 in cash and business development training. More information on the pitch competition can be found here.

“Social justice movements need innovation and need the energy of young people to drive bold agendas,” said Liz Havstad, COO and Executive Director of Hip Hop Caucus, who will be one of the judges of the Pitch Competition. “Hip Hop Caucus invests in creative communities and young people to be the drivers of change through advocacy and non-partisan electoral organizing, and we are proud to bring empowerment to cultural spaces like the A3C Festival and Conference.”

The Action Summit at A3C powered by Hip Hop Caucus will also feature keynotes from No Malice, formerly of the acclaimed rap duo The Clipse, and Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President of Climate, Environmental Justice & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus.

“At this moment in our country, we must use hip hop – the artform and the culture – to help us organize our collective voices to create change,” said No Malice. “There is a moral voice in Hip Hop that speaks to injustice and struggle, and that is what we are tapping into at the Action Summit at A3C powered by Hip Hop Caucus, and it is what we are tapping into right now in my home state of Virginia to get young people out to vote in our election this November.”

For more information about Hip Hop Caucus at A3C, please visit www.HipHopCaucus.org/A3C and www.a3cfestival.com/action-summit. You can also continue the conversation with us on social media, @HipHopCaucus on everything.

MEDIA CONTACT: Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-870-8476

ABOUT HIP HOP CAUCUSFormed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues affecting underserved and vulnerable communities. HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity.

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Landmark bill enhances public health and participation in our democracy, while empowering our most vulnerable communities facing hardships

Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, released the statement below about The Environmental Justice Act of 2017, introduced yesterday by U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Rep. Raul Ruiz, M.D. (D-CA). The bill protects against potential executive actions to rollback basic public health protections and public input in decision-making, requires federal agencies to address environmental justice through agency actions and permitting decisions, and strengthens legal protections against environmental injustice for communities of color, low-income communities, and indigenous communities.

“We applaud Senator Booker and Congressman Ruiz for introducing the Environmental Justice Act of 2017 and call for its passage. This is a vital piece of legislation introduced at a time when our most vulnerable communities are under extreme hardships due to the reckless decisions of the current Administration, impacts we are seeing right now from climate change, ongoing disproportionate impacts from air and water pollution, and improper use and disposal of toxic chemicals by industry.”

“The common sense proposals outlined in this bill come from over 25 years of stakeholder engagement and bipartisan input. The bill provides basic protections, legal resources, and tools to empower local communities so that they can take their communities from surviving to thriving.”

“By strengthening our most vulnerable communities, we strengthen America.”

More information about the bill can be found here.

Mustafa Santiago Ali, SVP at Hip Hop Caucus, announcing the bill with Senator Booker and Rep Ruiz – October 24, 2017

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues impacting underserved and vulnerable communities . HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle, as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org. Follow HHC online @HipHopCaucus on all social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali joined Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. As a renowned speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator, he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, released the statement below about EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt’s anticipated move to repeal the Clean Power Plan.

“This backwards move is another clear indication that fossil fuel industry corporations have taken control of the Environmental Protection Agency. It simply does not make sense for our pocketbooks and health. Unfortunately our most vulnerable communities will face the brunt of this irresponsible decision, including disproportionate health impacts, while rich corporations that have control over the EPA will reap the profits.”

“The Trump Administration is failing on its obligation to protect the planet for future generations by ignoring what science is telling us. Without cutting the carbon pollution fueling climate change, we are only going to see stronger storms and more wildfires like the disasters that continue to ravage our country. They are also ignoring the economic opportunities the clean energy economy presents us with, and instead, choose to double and triple down on an already dying industry. The clean energy economy is here and the rest of the world is moving on without us. This puts us at a tremendous economic disadvantage both home and abroad.”

“Hip Hop Caucus urges states to continue carrying out their own plans to cut emissions and transition to 100% clean energy for all. We also urge the public to participate in the upcoming opportunities to refute this irresponsible move through public comment. Instead of favoring polluters, we need to protect the health and prosperity of the American people. Please know that this dangerous move by Scott Pruitt will not be met without a fight.”

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues affecting underserved and vulnerable communities. HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle, as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org and by following @HipHopCaucus on social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali is a renowned national speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. He joined the Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Throughout his career he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

Washington, D.C. – October 28, 2017 – Rev.  Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the “Sandy5” march calling for leaders to take action on climate change and accelerate a just transition to clean energy. 

“We march to remember victims of Superstorm Sandy and say never again. We demand that our leaders act now to address the increasing impacts of climate change and help our communities move from surviving to thriving. Without cutting the carbon pollution fueling climate change, we are going to see stronger storms, like Sandy, Harvey, Irma, and Maria . We need to stop supporting the fossil fuel industry and stand up to the leaders at the federal, state, and local levels that value profit over people. Solutions to climate change exist and we can no longer wait to act – the time is now to protect our communities and the planet for future generations.”

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Washington, D.C. – Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the tragic and senseless attack at the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival in Las Vegas last night. The terrorist attack left over 50 people dead and 400 injured, in the most deadly mass shooting in modern United States history.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the victims that lost their lives from this absolute senseless attack. It is hard to comprehend why this would happen and we grieve with the families and friends of the victims in this dark time. They will never be forgotten.”

“We call for a renewed focus and immediate action on America’s gun policies and mental health issues. Weapons created for the battlefield are easily accessible in this country, including high powered rifles with extended magazines. Mental health issues too often go unaddressed and combined with unlimited access to increasingly sophisticated and powerful weapons, we continue to see tragedies unfold. From Columbine High School, to Sandy Hook Elementary School, to Pulse Nightclub, now Mandalay Bay on the Las Vegas strip – enough is enough. Let us come together and call on our elected leaders to take action that is needed to protect us against these senseless acts as much as possible. More can be done. What is it going to take for our leaders to act? How many more innocent people need to die and how many more families need to be destroyed?”

“Music is a unifying force – people attend concerts because of their shared love of music, whether it is country or hip hop. It is truly devastating to see that love and unity at a concert disrupted by such a despicable act. Instilling fear in the public through mass shootings is the definition of terrorism. Let us grieve now and also use this moment to come together to call for meaningful action to protect ourselves, family members, friends, neighbors, and fellow citizens in the future.”

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People’s Climate Music Releases New Single Featuring Jeremih and Antonique Smith to Move People to Act on Climate, Proceeds to Storm Relief Efforts

Cover of the 1969 Beatles iconic song inspires hope to solve climate change and support communities impacted by hurricanes and environmental disaster

Washington, D.C., September 22, 2017 – Today Hip Hop Caucus, creator of People’s Climate Music, debuted “Here Comes the Sun,” on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal and Amazon Music, featuring Grammy nominated singers Jeremih and Antonique Smith. The inspirational track is a cover of the song written by George Harrison that was first released on the Beatles’ 1969 pivotal album, Abbey Road. All profits from the record are being donated to Hurricanes Harvey and Irma relief efforts in frontline communities. Through People’s Climate Music, Hip Hop Caucus organizes diverse and influential artists to create music that inspires action on the climate crisis, with a goal of leading the way to a sustainable, 100% clean energy future for our planet.

Jeremih and Antonique Smith’s interpretation of “Here Comes the Sun” is a message about our humanity, as people of all walks of life come together to help each other in disaster and crises.

“We reprised the song in a way that keeps the essence of the original version, and we appropriated it as a message of hope to those today who are working on the right side of history– for justice, equality, and a healthy planet,” said Jeremih.

The song is accompanied by a call to action for people to take at www.PeoplesClimateMusic.com/HCTS. A promise to band together for the immediate and long-term recovery work from Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, and to prepare vulnerable communities for climate adaptation and an equitable transition to a clean economy, the project calls on people to use their voices to put pressure on our world leaders to act on climate change now.

“Poor communities and communities of color are impacted first and worst by the climate crisis,” said Antonique Smith. “I’ve traveled across the country meeting with communities on the frontlines of pollution and environmental disasters, and the purpose of our revival of ‘Here Comes the Sun’ is to bring more attention and support to their work and leadership on the frontlines.”

To mark People’s Climate Music’s third anniversary, a trailer for the “Here Comes the Sun” music video featuring Jeremih and Antonique Smith will premiere during Climate Week NYC 2017 at Hip Hop Caucus’ Frontline Communities – The Untold Stories of The Climate Movement event on Sunday, September 24th at The New School.

“With the power of culture and artists who have the ability to reach people everywhere, we are expanding the climate movement,” explained Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President and CEO of Hip Hop Caucus. “We must build a movement big enough and powerful enough to drive a transition to 100% clean energy for all. A healthy planet requires justice and equality so that everyone’s communities are clean, healthy, and safe places to live.”

“Here Comes the Sun” is available on all streaming and online stores including iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal and Amazon Music. Find the song at: www.PeoplesClimateMusic.com/HCTS For more information about People’s Climate Music visit peoplesclimatemusic.com or to continue the social conversation, visit Facebook.com/hiphopcaucus.

About Hip Hop Caucus (www.hiphopcaucus.org) Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting underserved communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders.

About People’s Climate Music (www.peoplesclimatemusic.com) Climate change is the most significant global issue of our time. The adverse impacts of climate change can be seen in unsafe water supplies, disproportionate pollution in poor communities, and extreme weather like hurricanes, heat waves and drought. It’s only going to get worse unless we work together to create a big change. Over the past decade, Hip Hop Caucus has been building support for the climate movement among cultural influencers. People’s Climate Music is a large-scale project that is expanding the base and scope of the climate movement, reaching deeper into popular consciousness to drive climate action among diverse constituencies, and inspiring action.

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HIP HOP CAUCUS PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 5, 2017
MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

Washington, D.C. – Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the below statement in response to the Trump Administration’s decision to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program:

“We the people will not stand for this Administration’s continued blatant disregard for our most vulnerable communities, cruel actions that will tear apart thousands of families, and fanning of the flames of hate and bigotry. The decision to end DACA today is so cruel, even this Administration decided to wait a few days until after a natural disaster devastated millions of our brothers and sisters on the Gulf Coast to announce it. Ending DACA will certainly be a man-made disaster, one that will have drastic negative implications on America’s families, economy, and moral fabric for years to come. This decision also comes on the heels of Charlottesville, where the whole world saw America’s ugliest side. We will continue to relentlessly counter this hate and bigotry supported by this Administration with love. All power to the people.”

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting under-served and vulnerable communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org.

HIP HOP CAUCUS PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 3, 2017
MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

New Orleans Community, Hip Hop Artists, and Activists Commemorate 12th Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, Call for a Just Harvey Recovery for All

New Orleans, LA – Today the Hip Hop Caucus, New Orleans Katrina Commemoration Foundation, Nuthin’ But Fire Records, Q93, People’s Climate Music, and many other community partners hosted the 12th Annual Hurricane Katrina March and Second Line.

The day’s events began with a healing ceremony next to the breached levee in the Lower Ninth Ward, followed by a march through the streets which fed into a second line. The second line ended with a rally at Hunter’s Field hosted by Wild Wayne of Q93 and renowned New Orleans’ poet Sunni Patterson. The rally featured remarks and performances by a variety of prominent community and cultural leaders, including Mia X, Sess 4-5, Roi Anthony, Hustlaz, Lady Red, Yung Pro, Shorty, Wildboy Woody, and DJ7.

This event serves as the largest annual community based commemoration of the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and shows first-hand the consequences of climate disasters on our communities. Each year this event honors the resiliency of the people, remembers the lives lost, and encourages further support for the communities most devastated by Hurricane Katrina. This year organizers also called for a just and equitable recovery from Hurricane Harvey which caused widespread flooding in southeast Texas and southwest Louisiana this past week.

“The people of New Orleans will not forget those who were lost 12 years ago and it is incredibly powerful to march in the same streets where your relatives died,” said Rev Yearwood, President & CEO, Hip Hop Caucus. “This anniversary is also a moment of solidarity, as millions are currently being impacted by Hurricane Harvey in Texas and Louisiana. Let us help our brothers and sisters in the Gulf get through this historic event, just as the City of Houston did by taking in over 100,000 people impacted by Hurricane Katrina 12 years ago. In that same spirit, we extend our hands and stand for a just recovery as we begin to heal and rebuild.”

Participants throughout the day also highlighted the ongoing struggle of families to live and thrive in post-Katrina New Orleans. Participants also called on leaders to do more to better prepare our most vulnerable communities to withstand future natural disasters by investing in smarter infrastructure and addressing climate change.

“We will never forget Katrina and what it did to our people,” said Sess 4-5, event organizer, leader of Hip Hop Caucus New Orleans, and recording artist and community activist. “We also want to shine a light on the fact that many people impacted by the storm are still not getting the help they deserve, even 12 years after it hit. We will keep on marching every year to remember those lost, bring our community closer together, and hold our elected leaders accountable so that they can right the wrongs of the past and create a better future for all.”

Organizers asked participants, supporters, and leaders to:

  • Remember: by calling on the state of Louisiana to make August 29 a holiday commemorating the lives lost in Katrina.
  • Right the wrongs: by calling for racial and economic justice so that in the face of disaster, the poor and people of color are not left without the ability to rebuild communities with good schools, good jobs, and good public health and safety.  
  • Say never again: by calling for action on climate change from our world’s leaders, otherwise we will only see more of these extreme weather events like Hurricane Katrina and Harvey around the world.
  • Call for a just and equitable Harvey recovery and rebuild for all: The most vulnerable communities – including low-income and communities of color – are being hardest hit. Help support by visiting anothergulf.com/a-just-harvey-recovery.

For more options on how to support Harvey recovery efforts, please visit hiphopcaucus.org/hurricane-harvey.  

About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting underserved communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org.  

About New Orleans Katrina Commemoration Foundation: New Orleans Katrina Commemoration Foundation annually organizes the largest community-led remembrance event on the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, August 29th.

About the People’s Climate Music: People’s Climate Music is helping to expand the climate movement by organizing diverse and influential artists to create music and culture that inspires action to solve the biggest crisis humanity has ever faced – climate change. More at PeoplesClimateMusic.com.

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Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the impacts severe storms have on our most vulnerable communities, and the lack of prioritization and response they receive from this Administration, including recent reports that Administrator Scott Pruitt is relocating the offices of Environmental Justice and National Environmental Policy Act Compliance out of the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These offices were formed out of a set of recommendations from stakeholders over the years under both Republican and Democratic Administrations. They provide critical expertise, protection of public health, and ensure that input and needs of all communities are fully considered by the agency, including ahead of, during, and following disasters.

“Moving these offices is very alarming, especially in the immediate aftermath of Harvey and looking ahead at Irma. This is another example of how this Administration is dissecting and dismantling the agency with a scalpel to favor industry polluters instead of protecting the health and prosperity of the American people. These actions politicize and weaken these offices, and continue to show a lack of connection to the voices and input from our most vulnerable communities by this Administration. This is at a time when the current leadership should be moving forward on the expansion of these offices to address the vastly disproportionate environmental impacts happening across the country to our most vulnerable communities – including communities of color, low income communities, and indigenous populations.”

“America’s most vulnerable communities are hardest hit and often undervalued, underestimated and marginalized by decision makers following storms like Harvey. For decades communities like Port Arthur and the Manchester neighborhood in Houston have been breathing in heavy toxic air that literally takes their breath away. Following Harvey, they now face even stronger first-hand exposure to harmful and unknown chemicals in their air, water, and land. First responders to the disaster areas are also exposed to these harmful toxins as they put their lives on the line to save lives and property. Vulnerable communities are also not typically prioritized in rebuilding efforts. They are often relocated to the most undesirable areas with the greatest risk to future public health threats and face many disproportionate hurdles as they attempt to recover financially.”

“Unfortunately, thus far the Trump Administration has not shown that they care about our most vulnerable communities. They have also shown an unwillingness to consider the impacts of an increasingly changing climate into their planning, policies, and priority setting for the American people. The current Administration has proposed drastic budget cuts that are not connected to the reality and dangers that vulnerable communities face, or what science is telling us. Their proposed cuts to NOAA, FEMA, EPA, and HUD in particular will have a direct correlation to the preparedness, response, and recovery within these communities hardest hit by Harvey and other severe storms of increasing magnitude, like Hurricane Irma approaching the U.S. mainland.”

“Vulnerable communities are forced into even more desperate situations, where their existing challenges are significantly compounded by these stronger storms and lack of foresight, empathy, and action by this Administration. This is literally putting people’s lives in jeopardy. This is the time we need to recognize the power, solutions, and opportunities to better prepare, respond, and rebuild for all. We need to work together to take our most vulnerable communities from surviving to thriving.”

To support frontline communities recovering from Harvey, please visit #AJustHarveyRecovery and Hip Hop Caucus’ resource page here.

For more, please be sure to check out Mustafa’s latest appearance on AM Joy, video interview with Robert Reich, and interview on the Politically Re-Active podcast with Kamau Bell and Hari Kondabolu. You can also keep up with him on Twitter (@EJinAction).

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative network, HHC addresses core issues impacting under-served and vulnerable communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org. Follow HHC online @HipHopCaucus on all social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali is a renowned national speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. He joined the Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Throughout his career he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org202-506-5882

Hip Hop Caucus Condemns Trump Administration’s Latest Moves at EPA, while Vulnerable Communities Deal With Impacts of Severe Storms

Hip Hop Caucus’ non-partisan initiative reaches young voters and voters of color with Virginia cultural influencers issuing a calls to action to register to  vote by October 16th deadline

Washington D.C.Respect My Vote! kicked off a final push to make sure people across the Commonwealth are registered to vote ahead of the November 7th elections. The campaign is promoting young Virginia media, artist, activist and social media influencers as spokespeople.

Last Friday marked the 100th birthday of the civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer and the campaign joined the civil rights community to call for people to honor her by registering to vote. Rev Yearwood, Hip Hop Caucus President & CEO, wrote an op-ed in RVA Magazine connecting her spirit to the importance of voting in the upcoming Virginia elections. This year’s Virginia campaign is being lead by No Malice, formerly of the acclaimed rap duo The Clipse and Virginia Beach native. The deadline to register in Virginia is October 16th, and people can do so by visiting RespectMyVote.com.

For more information and to stay updated, check out:

Respect My Vote! was first launched in 2008 and has since engaged millions of people during election cycles throughout the United States . Through partnerships with nonprofits, businesses, media and entertainment companies, and celebrity spokespeople, the campaign focuses on voter registration, voter education, get-out-the-vote, and voter rights . Spokespeople have included Vic Mensa, T.I., Charlamagne tha God, Keke Palmer, 2 Chainz, Amber Rose, Future, and hundreds of other artists and community leaders. Respect My Vote! is a non-partisan, voter registration, education, and mobilization campaign of the Hip Hop Caucus

Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues affecting underserved and vulnerable communities. HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle, as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity . More at HipHopCaucus.org.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

At one of Hip Hop’s largest annual events, Hip Hop Caucus is working with activists, academics, and artists to drive social justice and environmental solutions through advocacy and non-partisan electoral organizing

Atlanta, Georgia – October 6, 2017 – This week at one of the world’s largest hip hop festivals,  Hip Hop Caucus has partnered with A3C to train and organize young people on the power of art, music, and hip hop culture advance social justice and civic engagement. Founded in 2005, A3C has grown from a local showcase to become one of the most important hip-hop events of the year, and is commonly referred to as “Hip-Hop’s Family Reunion.”

The Action Summit at A3C powered by Hip Hop Caucus is two days of dedicated programming at the Auburn Avenue Research Library in the center of the festival stages and events in Atlanta. The programing includes a series of events and workshops featuring activists, academics, and artists that explore how to best address social justice challenges through community driven solutions and develop actionable initiatives for young people. Three major tracks for the Action Summit are Police Reform, Getting Out the Youth Vote, and Climate Change and Environmental Justice.

As part of the Action Summit, Hip Hop Caucus joined forces with the Center for Civic Innovation for the A3C Action Pitch National Competition to find, support, and invest in new, innovative ideas that use hip-hop culture as a vehicle to advance social justice and civic engagement. Five finalists will do their final pitches in front of judges and a national audience at the A3C Action Summit this evening. Finalists are competing for $10,000 in cash and business development training. More information on the pitch competition can be found here.

“Social justice movements need innovation and need the energy of young people to drive bold agendas,” said Liz Havstad, COO and Executive Director of Hip Hop Caucus, who will be one of the judges of the Pitch Competition. “Hip Hop Caucus invests in creative communities and young people to be the drivers of change through advocacy and non-partisan electoral organizing, and we are proud to bring empowerment to cultural spaces like the A3C Festival and Conference.”

The Action Summit at A3C powered by Hip Hop Caucus will also feature keynotes from No Malice, formerly of the acclaimed rap duo The Clipse, and Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President of Climate, Environmental Justice & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus.

“At this moment in our country, we must use hip hop – the artform and the culture – to help us organize our collective voices to create change,” said No Malice. “There is a moral voice in Hip Hop that speaks to injustice and struggle, and that is what we are tapping into at the Action Summit at A3C powered by Hip Hop Caucus, and it is what we are tapping into right now in my home state of Virginia to get young people out to vote in our election this November.”

For more information about Hip Hop Caucus at A3C, please visit www.HipHopCaucus.org/A3C and www.a3cfestival.com/action-summit. You can also continue the conversation with us on social media, @HipHopCaucus on everything.

MEDIA CONTACT: Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-870-8476

ABOUT HIP HOP CAUCUSFormed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues affecting underserved and vulnerable communities. HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity.

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Landmark bill enhances public health and participation in our democracy, while empowering our most vulnerable communities facing hardships

Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, released the statement below about The Environmental Justice Act of 2017, introduced yesterday by U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Rep. Raul Ruiz, M.D. (D-CA). The bill protects against potential executive actions to rollback basic public health protections and public input in decision-making, requires federal agencies to address environmental justice through agency actions and permitting decisions, and strengthens legal protections against environmental injustice for communities of color, low-income communities, and indigenous communities.

“We applaud Senator Booker and Congressman Ruiz for introducing the Environmental Justice Act of 2017 and call for its passage. This is a vital piece of legislation introduced at a time when our most vulnerable communities are under extreme hardships due to the reckless decisions of the current Administration, impacts we are seeing right now from climate change, ongoing disproportionate impacts from air and water pollution, and improper use and disposal of toxic chemicals by industry.”

“The common sense proposals outlined in this bill come from over 25 years of stakeholder engagement and bipartisan input. The bill provides basic protections, legal resources, and tools to empower local communities so that they can take their communities from surviving to thriving.”

“By strengthening our most vulnerable communities, we strengthen America.”

More information about the bill can be found here.

Mustafa Santiago Ali, SVP at Hip Hop Caucus, announcing the bill with Senator Booker and Rep Ruiz – October 24, 2017

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues impacting underserved and vulnerable communities . HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle, as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org. Follow HHC online @HipHopCaucus on all social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali joined Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. As a renowned speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator, he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, released the statement below about EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt’s anticipated move to repeal the Clean Power Plan.

“This backwards move is another clear indication that fossil fuel industry corporations have taken control of the Environmental Protection Agency. It simply does not make sense for our pocketbooks and health. Unfortunately our most vulnerable communities will face the brunt of this irresponsible decision, including disproportionate health impacts, while rich corporations that have control over the EPA will reap the profits.”

“The Trump Administration is failing on its obligation to protect the planet for future generations by ignoring what science is telling us. Without cutting the carbon pollution fueling climate change, we are only going to see stronger storms and more wildfires like the disasters that continue to ravage our country. They are also ignoring the economic opportunities the clean energy economy presents us with, and instead, choose to double and triple down on an already dying industry. The clean energy economy is here and the rest of the world is moving on without us. This puts us at a tremendous economic disadvantage both home and abroad.”

“Hip Hop Caucus urges states to continue carrying out their own plans to cut emissions and transition to 100% clean energy for all. We also urge the public to participate in the upcoming opportunities to refute this irresponsible move through public comment. Instead of favoring polluters, we need to protect the health and prosperity of the American people. Please know that this dangerous move by Scott Pruitt will not be met without a fight.”

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues affecting underserved and vulnerable communities. HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle, as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org and by following @HipHopCaucus on social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali is a renowned national speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. He joined the Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Throughout his career he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

Washington, D.C. – October 28, 2017 – Rev.  Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the “Sandy5” march calling for leaders to take action on climate change and accelerate a just transition to clean energy. 

“We march to remember victims of Superstorm Sandy and say never again. We demand that our leaders act now to address the increasing impacts of climate change and help our communities move from surviving to thriving. Without cutting the carbon pollution fueling climate change, we are going to see stronger storms, like Sandy, Harvey, Irma, and Maria . We need to stop supporting the fossil fuel industry and stand up to the leaders at the federal, state, and local levels that value profit over people. Solutions to climate change exist and we can no longer wait to act – the time is now to protect our communities and the planet for future generations.”

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Washington, D.C. – Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the tragic and senseless attack at the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival in Las Vegas last night. The terrorist attack left over 50 people dead and 400 injured, in the most deadly mass shooting in modern United States history.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the victims that lost their lives from this absolute senseless attack. It is hard to comprehend why this would happen and we grieve with the families and friends of the victims in this dark time. They will never be forgotten.”

“We call for a renewed focus and immediate action on America’s gun policies and mental health issues. Weapons created for the battlefield are easily accessible in this country, including high powered rifles with extended magazines. Mental health issues too often go unaddressed and combined with unlimited access to increasingly sophisticated and powerful weapons, we continue to see tragedies unfold. From Columbine High School, to Sandy Hook Elementary School, to Pulse Nightclub, now Mandalay Bay on the Las Vegas strip – enough is enough. Let us come together and call on our elected leaders to take action that is needed to protect us against these senseless acts as much as possible. More can be done. What is it going to take for our leaders to act? How many more innocent people need to die and how many more families need to be destroyed?”

“Music is a unifying force – people attend concerts because of their shared love of music, whether it is country or hip hop. It is truly devastating to see that love and unity at a concert disrupted by such a despicable act. Instilling fear in the public through mass shootings is the definition of terrorism. Let us grieve now and also use this moment to come together to call for meaningful action to protect ourselves, family members, friends, neighbors, and fellow citizens in the future.”

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People’s Climate Music Releases New Single Featuring Jeremih and Antonique Smith to Move People to Act on Climate, Proceeds to Storm Relief Efforts

Cover of the 1969 Beatles iconic song inspires hope to solve climate change and support communities impacted by hurricanes and environmental disaster

Washington, D.C., September 22, 2017 – Today Hip Hop Caucus, creator of People’s Climate Music, debuted “Here Comes the Sun,” on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal and Amazon Music, featuring Grammy nominated singers Jeremih and Antonique Smith. The inspirational track is a cover of the song written by George Harrison that was first released on the Beatles’ 1969 pivotal album, Abbey Road. All profits from the record are being donated to Hurricanes Harvey and Irma relief efforts in frontline communities. Through People’s Climate Music, Hip Hop Caucus organizes diverse and influential artists to create music that inspires action on the climate crisis, with a goal of leading the way to a sustainable, 100% clean energy future for our planet.

Jeremih and Antonique Smith’s interpretation of “Here Comes the Sun” is a message about our humanity, as people of all walks of life come together to help each other in disaster and crises.

“We reprised the song in a way that keeps the essence of the original version, and we appropriated it as a message of hope to those today who are working on the right side of history– for justice, equality, and a healthy planet,” said Jeremih.

The song is accompanied by a call to action for people to take at www.PeoplesClimateMusic.com/HCTS. A promise to band together for the immediate and long-term recovery work from Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, and to prepare vulnerable communities for climate adaptation and an equitable transition to a clean economy, the project calls on people to use their voices to put pressure on our world leaders to act on climate change now.

“Poor communities and communities of color are impacted first and worst by the climate crisis,” said Antonique Smith. “I’ve traveled across the country meeting with communities on the frontlines of pollution and environmental disasters, and the purpose of our revival of ‘Here Comes the Sun’ is to bring more attention and support to their work and leadership on the frontlines.”

To mark People’s Climate Music’s third anniversary, a trailer for the “Here Comes the Sun” music video featuring Jeremih and Antonique Smith will premiere during Climate Week NYC 2017 at Hip Hop Caucus’ Frontline Communities – The Untold Stories of The Climate Movement event on Sunday, September 24th at The New School.

“With the power of culture and artists who have the ability to reach people everywhere, we are expanding the climate movement,” explained Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President and CEO of Hip Hop Caucus. “We must build a movement big enough and powerful enough to drive a transition to 100% clean energy for all. A healthy planet requires justice and equality so that everyone’s communities are clean, healthy, and safe places to live.”

“Here Comes the Sun” is available on all streaming and online stores including iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal and Amazon Music. Find the song at: www.PeoplesClimateMusic.com/HCTS For more information about People’s Climate Music visit peoplesclimatemusic.com or to continue the social conversation, visit Facebook.com/hiphopcaucus.

About Hip Hop Caucus (www.hiphopcaucus.org) Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting underserved communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders.

About People’s Climate Music (www.peoplesclimatemusic.com) Climate change is the most significant global issue of our time. The adverse impacts of climate change can be seen in unsafe water supplies, disproportionate pollution in poor communities, and extreme weather like hurricanes, heat waves and drought. It’s only going to get worse unless we work together to create a big change. Over the past decade, Hip Hop Caucus has been building support for the climate movement among cultural influencers. People’s Climate Music is a large-scale project that is expanding the base and scope of the climate movement, reaching deeper into popular consciousness to drive climate action among diverse constituencies, and inspiring action.

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HIP HOP CAUCUS PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 5, 2017
MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

Washington, D.C. – Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the below statement in response to the Trump Administration’s decision to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program:

“We the people will not stand for this Administration’s continued blatant disregard for our most vulnerable communities, cruel actions that will tear apart thousands of families, and fanning of the flames of hate and bigotry. The decision to end DACA today is so cruel, even this Administration decided to wait a few days until after a natural disaster devastated millions of our brothers and sisters on the Gulf Coast to announce it. Ending DACA will certainly be a man-made disaster, one that will have drastic negative implications on America’s families, economy, and moral fabric for years to come. This decision also comes on the heels of Charlottesville, where the whole world saw America’s ugliest side. We will continue to relentlessly counter this hate and bigotry supported by this Administration with love. All power to the people.”

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting under-served and vulnerable communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org.

HIP HOP CAUCUS PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 3, 2017
MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

New Orleans Community, Hip Hop Artists, and Activists Commemorate 12th Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, Call for a Just Harvey Recovery for All

New Orleans, LA – Today the Hip Hop Caucus, New Orleans Katrina Commemoration Foundation, Nuthin’ But Fire Records, Q93, People’s Climate Music, and many other community partners hosted the 12th Annual Hurricane Katrina March and Second Line.

The day’s events began with a healing ceremony next to the breached levee in the Lower Ninth Ward, followed by a march through the streets which fed into a second line. The second line ended with a rally at Hunter’s Field hosted by Wild Wayne of Q93 and renowned New Orleans’ poet Sunni Patterson. The rally featured remarks and performances by a variety of prominent community and cultural leaders, including Mia X, Sess 4-5, Roi Anthony, Hustlaz, Lady Red, Yung Pro, Shorty, Wildboy Woody, and DJ7.

This event serves as the largest annual community based commemoration of the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and shows first-hand the consequences of climate disasters on our communities. Each year this event honors the resiliency of the people, remembers the lives lost, and encourages further support for the communities most devastated by Hurricane Katrina. This year organizers also called for a just and equitable recovery from Hurricane Harvey which caused widespread flooding in southeast Texas and southwest Louisiana this past week.

“The people of New Orleans will not forget those who were lost 12 years ago and it is incredibly powerful to march in the same streets where your relatives died,” said Rev Yearwood, President & CEO, Hip Hop Caucus. “This anniversary is also a moment of solidarity, as millions are currently being impacted by Hurricane Harvey in Texas and Louisiana. Let us help our brothers and sisters in the Gulf get through this historic event, just as the City of Houston did by taking in over 100,000 people impacted by Hurricane Katrina 12 years ago. In that same spirit, we extend our hands and stand for a just recovery as we begin to heal and rebuild.”

Participants throughout the day also highlighted the ongoing struggle of families to live and thrive in post-Katrina New Orleans. Participants also called on leaders to do more to better prepare our most vulnerable communities to withstand future natural disasters by investing in smarter infrastructure and addressing climate change.

“We will never forget Katrina and what it did to our people,” said Sess 4-5, event organizer, leader of Hip Hop Caucus New Orleans, and recording artist and community activist. “We also want to shine a light on the fact that many people impacted by the storm are still not getting the help they deserve, even 12 years after it hit. We will keep on marching every year to remember those lost, bring our community closer together, and hold our elected leaders accountable so that they can right the wrongs of the past and create a better future for all.”

Organizers asked participants, supporters, and leaders to:

  • Remember: by calling on the state of Louisiana to make August 29 a holiday commemorating the lives lost in Katrina.
  • Right the wrongs: by calling for racial and economic justice so that in the face of disaster, the poor and people of color are not left without the ability to rebuild communities with good schools, good jobs, and good public health and safety.  
  • Say never again: by calling for action on climate change from our world’s leaders, otherwise we will only see more of these extreme weather events like Hurricane Katrina and Harvey around the world.
  • Call for a just and equitable Harvey recovery and rebuild for all: The most vulnerable communities – including low-income and communities of color – are being hardest hit. Help support by visiting anothergulf.com/a-just-harvey-recovery.

For more options on how to support Harvey recovery efforts, please visit hiphopcaucus.org/hurricane-harvey.  

About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting underserved communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org.  

About New Orleans Katrina Commemoration Foundation: New Orleans Katrina Commemoration Foundation annually organizes the largest community-led remembrance event on the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, August 29th.

About the People’s Climate Music: People’s Climate Music is helping to expand the climate movement by organizing diverse and influential artists to create music and culture that inspires action to solve the biggest crisis humanity has ever faced – climate change. More at PeoplesClimateMusic.com.

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Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the impacts severe storms have on our most vulnerable communities, and the lack of prioritization and response they receive from this Administration, including recent reports that Administrator Scott Pruitt is relocating the offices of Environmental Justice and National Environmental Policy Act Compliance out of the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These offices were formed out of a set of recommendations from stakeholders over the years under both Republican and Democratic Administrations. They provide critical expertise, protection of public health, and ensure that input and needs of all communities are fully considered by the agency, including ahead of, during, and following disasters.

“Moving these offices is very alarming, especially in the immediate aftermath of Harvey and looking ahead at Irma. This is another example of how this Administration is dissecting and dismantling the agency with a scalpel to favor industry polluters instead of protecting the health and prosperity of the American people. These actions politicize and weaken these offices, and continue to show a lack of connection to the voices and input from our most vulnerable communities by this Administration. This is at a time when the current leadership should be moving forward on the expansion of these offices to address the vastly disproportionate environmental impacts happening across the country to our most vulnerable communities – including communities of color, low income communities, and indigenous populations.”

“America’s most vulnerable communities are hardest hit and often undervalued, underestimated and marginalized by decision makers following storms like Harvey. For decades communities like Port Arthur and the Manchester neighborhood in Houston have been breathing in heavy toxic air that literally takes their breath away. Following Harvey, they now face even stronger first-hand exposure to harmful and unknown chemicals in their air, water, and land. First responders to the disaster areas are also exposed to these harmful toxins as they put their lives on the line to save lives and property. Vulnerable communities are also not typically prioritized in rebuilding efforts. They are often relocated to the most undesirable areas with the greatest risk to future public health threats and face many disproportionate hurdles as they attempt to recover financially.”

“Unfortunately, thus far the Trump Administration has not shown that they care about our most vulnerable communities. They have also shown an unwillingness to consider the impacts of an increasingly changing climate into their planning, policies, and priority setting for the American people. The current Administration has proposed drastic budget cuts that are not connected to the reality and dangers that vulnerable communities face, or what science is telling us. Their proposed cuts to NOAA, FEMA, EPA, and HUD in particular will have a direct correlation to the preparedness, response, and recovery within these communities hardest hit by Harvey and other severe storms of increasing magnitude, like Hurricane Irma approaching the U.S. mainland.”

“Vulnerable communities are forced into even more desperate situations, where their existing challenges are significantly compounded by these stronger storms and lack of foresight, empathy, and action by this Administration. This is literally putting people’s lives in jeopardy. This is the time we need to recognize the power, solutions, and opportunities to better prepare, respond, and rebuild for all. We need to work together to take our most vulnerable communities from surviving to thriving.”

To support frontline communities recovering from Harvey, please visit #AJustHarveyRecovery and Hip Hop Caucus’ resource page here.

For more, please be sure to check out Mustafa’s latest appearance on AM Joy, video interview with Robert Reich, and interview on the Politically Re-Active podcast with Kamau Bell and Hari Kondabolu. You can also keep up with him on Twitter (@EJinAction).

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative network, HHC addresses core issues impacting under-served and vulnerable communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org. Follow HHC online @HipHopCaucus on all social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali is a renowned national speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. He joined the Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Throughout his career he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org202-506-5882

Hip Hop Caucus Condemns Trump Administration’s Latest Moves at EPA, while Vulnerable Communities Deal With Impacts of Severe Storms

Hip Hop Caucus’ non-partisan initiative reaches young voters and voters of color with Virginia cultural influencers issuing a calls to action to register to  vote by October 16th deadline

Washington D.C.Respect My Vote! kicked off a final push to make sure people across the Commonwealth are registered to vote ahead of the November 7th elections. The campaign is promoting young Virginia media, artist, activist and social media influencers as spokespeople.

Last Friday marked the 100th birthday of the civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer and the campaign joined the civil rights community to call for people to honor her by registering to vote. Rev Yearwood, Hip Hop Caucus President & CEO, wrote an op-ed in RVA Magazine connecting her spirit to the importance of voting in the upcoming Virginia elections. This year’s Virginia campaign is being lead by No Malice, formerly of the acclaimed rap duo The Clipse and Virginia Beach native. The deadline to register in Virginia is October 16th, and people can do so by visiting RespectMyVote.com.

For more information and to stay updated, check out:

Respect My Vote! was first launched in 2008 and has since engaged millions of people during election cycles throughout the United States . Through partnerships with nonprofits, businesses, media and entertainment companies, and celebrity spokespeople, the campaign focuses on voter registration, voter education, get-out-the-vote, and voter rights . Spokespeople have included Vic Mensa, T.I., Charlamagne tha God, Keke Palmer, 2 Chainz, Amber Rose, Future, and hundreds of other artists and community leaders. Respect My Vote! is a non-partisan, voter registration, education, and mobilization campaign of the Hip Hop Caucus

Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues affecting underserved and vulnerable communities. HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle, as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity . More at HipHopCaucus.org.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

At one of Hip Hop’s largest annual events, Hip Hop Caucus is working with activists, academics, and artists to drive social justice and environmental solutions through advocacy and non-partisan electoral organizing

Atlanta, Georgia – October 6, 2017 – This week at one of the world’s largest hip hop festivals,  Hip Hop Caucus has partnered with A3C to train and organize young people on the power of art, music, and hip hop culture advance social justice and civic engagement. Founded in 2005, A3C has grown from a local showcase to become one of the most important hip-hop events of the year, and is commonly referred to as “Hip-Hop’s Family Reunion.”

The Action Summit at A3C powered by Hip Hop Caucus is two days of dedicated programming at the Auburn Avenue Research Library in the center of the festival stages and events in Atlanta. The programing includes a series of events and workshops featuring activists, academics, and artists that explore how to best address social justice challenges through community driven solutions and develop actionable initiatives for young people. Three major tracks for the Action Summit are Police Reform, Getting Out the Youth Vote, and Climate Change and Environmental Justice.

As part of the Action Summit, Hip Hop Caucus joined forces with the Center for Civic Innovation for the A3C Action Pitch National Competition to find, support, and invest in new, innovative ideas that use hip-hop culture as a vehicle to advance social justice and civic engagement. Five finalists will do their final pitches in front of judges and a national audience at the A3C Action Summit this evening. Finalists are competing for $10,000 in cash and business development training. More information on the pitch competition can be found here.

“Social justice movements need innovation and need the energy of young people to drive bold agendas,” said Liz Havstad, COO and Executive Director of Hip Hop Caucus, who will be one of the judges of the Pitch Competition. “Hip Hop Caucus invests in creative communities and young people to be the drivers of change through advocacy and non-partisan electoral organizing, and we are proud to bring empowerment to cultural spaces like the A3C Festival and Conference.”

The Action Summit at A3C powered by Hip Hop Caucus will also feature keynotes from No Malice, formerly of the acclaimed rap duo The Clipse, and Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President of Climate, Environmental Justice & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus.

“At this moment in our country, we must use hip hop – the artform and the culture – to help us organize our collective voices to create change,” said No Malice. “There is a moral voice in Hip Hop that speaks to injustice and struggle, and that is what we are tapping into at the Action Summit at A3C powered by Hip Hop Caucus, and it is what we are tapping into right now in my home state of Virginia to get young people out to vote in our election this November.”

For more information about Hip Hop Caucus at A3C, please visit www.HipHopCaucus.org/A3C and www.a3cfestival.com/action-summit. You can also continue the conversation with us on social media, @HipHopCaucus on everything.

MEDIA CONTACT: Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-870-8476

ABOUT HIP HOP CAUCUSFormed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues affecting underserved and vulnerable communities. HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity.

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Landmark bill enhances public health and participation in our democracy, while empowering our most vulnerable communities facing hardships

Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, released the statement below about The Environmental Justice Act of 2017, introduced yesterday by U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Rep. Raul Ruiz, M.D. (D-CA). The bill protects against potential executive actions to rollback basic public health protections and public input in decision-making, requires federal agencies to address environmental justice through agency actions and permitting decisions, and strengthens legal protections against environmental injustice for communities of color, low-income communities, and indigenous communities.

“We applaud Senator Booker and Congressman Ruiz for introducing the Environmental Justice Act of 2017 and call for its passage. This is a vital piece of legislation introduced at a time when our most vulnerable communities are under extreme hardships due to the reckless decisions of the current Administration, impacts we are seeing right now from climate change, ongoing disproportionate impacts from air and water pollution, and improper use and disposal of toxic chemicals by industry.”

“The common sense proposals outlined in this bill come from over 25 years of stakeholder engagement and bipartisan input. The bill provides basic protections, legal resources, and tools to empower local communities so that they can take their communities from surviving to thriving.”

“By strengthening our most vulnerable communities, we strengthen America.”

More information about the bill can be found here.

Mustafa Santiago Ali, SVP at Hip Hop Caucus, announcing the bill with Senator Booker and Rep Ruiz – October 24, 2017

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues impacting underserved and vulnerable communities . HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle, as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org. Follow HHC online @HipHopCaucus on all social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali joined Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. As a renowned speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator, he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, released the statement below about EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt’s anticipated move to repeal the Clean Power Plan.

“This backwards move is another clear indication that fossil fuel industry corporations have taken control of the Environmental Protection Agency. It simply does not make sense for our pocketbooks and health. Unfortunately our most vulnerable communities will face the brunt of this irresponsible decision, including disproportionate health impacts, while rich corporations that have control over the EPA will reap the profits.”

“The Trump Administration is failing on its obligation to protect the planet for future generations by ignoring what science is telling us. Without cutting the carbon pollution fueling climate change, we are only going to see stronger storms and more wildfires like the disasters that continue to ravage our country. They are also ignoring the economic opportunities the clean energy economy presents us with, and instead, choose to double and triple down on an already dying industry. The clean energy economy is here and the rest of the world is moving on without us. This puts us at a tremendous economic disadvantage both home and abroad.”

“Hip Hop Caucus urges states to continue carrying out their own plans to cut emissions and transition to 100% clean energy for all. We also urge the public to participate in the upcoming opportunities to refute this irresponsible move through public comment. Instead of favoring polluters, we need to protect the health and prosperity of the American people. Please know that this dangerous move by Scott Pruitt will not be met without a fight.”

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues affecting underserved and vulnerable communities. HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle, as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org and by following @HipHopCaucus on social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali is a renowned national speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. He joined the Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Throughout his career he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

Washington, D.C. – October 28, 2017 – Rev.  Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the “Sandy5” march calling for leaders to take action on climate change and accelerate a just transition to clean energy. 

“We march to remember victims of Superstorm Sandy and say never again. We demand that our leaders act now to address the increasing impacts of climate change and help our communities move from surviving to thriving. Without cutting the carbon pollution fueling climate change, we are going to see stronger storms, like Sandy, Harvey, Irma, and Maria . We need to stop supporting the fossil fuel industry and stand up to the leaders at the federal, state, and local levels that value profit over people. Solutions to climate change exist and we can no longer wait to act – the time is now to protect our communities and the planet for future generations.”

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Washington, D.C. – Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the tragic and senseless attack at the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival in Las Vegas last night. The terrorist attack left over 50 people dead and 400 injured, in the most deadly mass shooting in modern United States history.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the victims that lost their lives from this absolute senseless attack. It is hard to comprehend why this would happen and we grieve with the families and friends of the victims in this dark time. They will never be forgotten.”

“We call for a renewed focus and immediate action on America’s gun policies and mental health issues. Weapons created for the battlefield are easily accessible in this country, including high powered rifles with extended magazines. Mental health issues too often go unaddressed and combined with unlimited access to increasingly sophisticated and powerful weapons, we continue to see tragedies unfold. From Columbine High School, to Sandy Hook Elementary School, to Pulse Nightclub, now Mandalay Bay on the Las Vegas strip – enough is enough. Let us come together and call on our elected leaders to take action that is needed to protect us against these senseless acts as much as possible. More can be done. What is it going to take for our leaders to act? How many more innocent people need to die and how many more families need to be destroyed?”

“Music is a unifying force – people attend concerts because of their shared love of music, whether it is country or hip hop. It is truly devastating to see that love and unity at a concert disrupted by such a despicable act. Instilling fear in the public through mass shootings is the definition of terrorism. Let us grieve now and also use this moment to come together to call for meaningful action to protect ourselves, family members, friends, neighbors, and fellow citizens in the future.”

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People’s Climate Music Releases New Single Featuring Jeremih and Antonique Smith to Move People to Act on Climate, Proceeds to Storm Relief Efforts

Cover of the 1969 Beatles iconic song inspires hope to solve climate change and support communities impacted by hurricanes and environmental disaster

Washington, D.C., September 22, 2017 – Today Hip Hop Caucus, creator of People’s Climate Music, debuted “Here Comes the Sun,” on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal and Amazon Music, featuring Grammy nominated singers Jeremih and Antonique Smith. The inspirational track is a cover of the song written by George Harrison that was first released on the Beatles’ 1969 pivotal album, Abbey Road. All profits from the record are being donated to Hurricanes Harvey and Irma relief efforts in frontline communities. Through People’s Climate Music, Hip Hop Caucus organizes diverse and influential artists to create music that inspires action on the climate crisis, with a goal of leading the way to a sustainable, 100% clean energy future for our planet.

Jeremih and Antonique Smith’s interpretation of “Here Comes the Sun” is a message about our humanity, as people of all walks of life come together to help each other in disaster and crises.

“We reprised the song in a way that keeps the essence of the original version, and we appropriated it as a message of hope to those today who are working on the right side of history– for justice, equality, and a healthy planet,” said Jeremih.

The song is accompanied by a call to action for people to take at www.PeoplesClimateMusic.com/HCTS. A promise to band together for the immediate and long-term recovery work from Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, and to prepare vulnerable communities for climate adaptation and an equitable transition to a clean economy, the project calls on people to use their voices to put pressure on our world leaders to act on climate change now.

“Poor communities and communities of color are impacted first and worst by the climate crisis,” said Antonique Smith. “I’ve traveled across the country meeting with communities on the frontlines of pollution and environmental disasters, and the purpose of our revival of ‘Here Comes the Sun’ is to bring more attention and support to their work and leadership on the frontlines.”

To mark People’s Climate Music’s third anniversary, a trailer for the “Here Comes the Sun” music video featuring Jeremih and Antonique Smith will premiere during Climate Week NYC 2017 at Hip Hop Caucus’ Frontline Communities – The Untold Stories of The Climate Movement event on Sunday, September 24th at The New School.

“With the power of culture and artists who have the ability to reach people everywhere, we are expanding the climate movement,” explained Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President and CEO of Hip Hop Caucus. “We must build a movement big enough and powerful enough to drive a transition to 100% clean energy for all. A healthy planet requires justice and equality so that everyone’s communities are clean, healthy, and safe places to live.”

“Here Comes the Sun” is available on all streaming and online stores including iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal and Amazon Music. Find the song at: www.PeoplesClimateMusic.com/HCTS For more information about People’s Climate Music visit peoplesclimatemusic.com or to continue the social conversation, visit Facebook.com/hiphopcaucus.

About Hip Hop Caucus (www.hiphopcaucus.org) Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting underserved communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders.

About People’s Climate Music (www.peoplesclimatemusic.com) Climate change is the most significant global issue of our time. The adverse impacts of climate change can be seen in unsafe water supplies, disproportionate pollution in poor communities, and extreme weather like hurricanes, heat waves and drought. It’s only going to get worse unless we work together to create a big change. Over the past decade, Hip Hop Caucus has been building support for the climate movement among cultural influencers. People’s Climate Music is a large-scale project that is expanding the base and scope of the climate movement, reaching deeper into popular consciousness to drive climate action among diverse constituencies, and inspiring action.

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HIP HOP CAUCUS PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 5, 2017
MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

Washington, D.C. – Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the below statement in response to the Trump Administration’s decision to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program:

“We the people will not stand for this Administration’s continued blatant disregard for our most vulnerable communities, cruel actions that will tear apart thousands of families, and fanning of the flames of hate and bigotry. The decision to end DACA today is so cruel, even this Administration decided to wait a few days until after a natural disaster devastated millions of our brothers and sisters on the Gulf Coast to announce it. Ending DACA will certainly be a man-made disaster, one that will have drastic negative implications on America’s families, economy, and moral fabric for years to come. This decision also comes on the heels of Charlottesville, where the whole world saw America’s ugliest side. We will continue to relentlessly counter this hate and bigotry supported by this Administration with love. All power to the people.”

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting under-served and vulnerable communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org.

HIP HOP CAUCUS PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 3, 2017
MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

New Orleans Community, Hip Hop Artists, and Activists Commemorate 12th Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, Call for a Just Harvey Recovery for All

New Orleans, LA – Today the Hip Hop Caucus, New Orleans Katrina Commemoration Foundation, Nuthin’ But Fire Records, Q93, People’s Climate Music, and many other community partners hosted the 12th Annual Hurricane Katrina March and Second Line.

The day’s events began with a healing ceremony next to the breached levee in the Lower Ninth Ward, followed by a march through the streets which fed into a second line. The second line ended with a rally at Hunter’s Field hosted by Wild Wayne of Q93 and renowned New Orleans’ poet Sunni Patterson. The rally featured remarks and performances by a variety of prominent community and cultural leaders, including Mia X, Sess 4-5, Roi Anthony, Hustlaz, Lady Red, Yung Pro, Shorty, Wildboy Woody, and DJ7.

This event serves as the largest annual community based commemoration of the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and shows first-hand the consequences of climate disasters on our communities. Each year this event honors the resiliency of the people, remembers the lives lost, and encourages further support for the communities most devastated by Hurricane Katrina. This year organizers also called for a just and equitable recovery from Hurricane Harvey which caused widespread flooding in southeast Texas and southwest Louisiana this past week.

“The people of New Orleans will not forget those who were lost 12 years ago and it is incredibly powerful to march in the same streets where your relatives died,” said Rev Yearwood, President & CEO, Hip Hop Caucus. “This anniversary is also a moment of solidarity, as millions are currently being impacted by Hurricane Harvey in Texas and Louisiana. Let us help our brothers and sisters in the Gulf get through this historic event, just as the City of Houston did by taking in over 100,000 people impacted by Hurricane Katrina 12 years ago. In that same spirit, we extend our hands and stand for a just recovery as we begin to heal and rebuild.”

Participants throughout the day also highlighted the ongoing struggle of families to live and thrive in post-Katrina New Orleans. Participants also called on leaders to do more to better prepare our most vulnerable communities to withstand future natural disasters by investing in smarter infrastructure and addressing climate change.

“We will never forget Katrina and what it did to our people,” said Sess 4-5, event organizer, leader of Hip Hop Caucus New Orleans, and recording artist and community activist. “We also want to shine a light on the fact that many people impacted by the storm are still not getting the help they deserve, even 12 years after it hit. We will keep on marching every year to remember those lost, bring our community closer together, and hold our elected leaders accountable so that they can right the wrongs of the past and create a better future for all.”

Organizers asked participants, supporters, and leaders to:

  • Remember: by calling on the state of Louisiana to make August 29 a holiday commemorating the lives lost in Katrina.
  • Right the wrongs: by calling for racial and economic justice so that in the face of disaster, the poor and people of color are not left without the ability to rebuild communities with good schools, good jobs, and good public health and safety.  
  • Say never again: by calling for action on climate change from our world’s leaders, otherwise we will only see more of these extreme weather events like Hurricane Katrina and Harvey around the world.
  • Call for a just and equitable Harvey recovery and rebuild for all: The most vulnerable communities – including low-income and communities of color – are being hardest hit. Help support by visiting anothergulf.com/a-just-harvey-recovery.

For more options on how to support Harvey recovery efforts, please visit hiphopcaucus.org/hurricane-harvey.  

About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting underserved communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org.  

About New Orleans Katrina Commemoration Foundation: New Orleans Katrina Commemoration Foundation annually organizes the largest community-led remembrance event on the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, August 29th.

About the People’s Climate Music: People’s Climate Music is helping to expand the climate movement by organizing diverse and influential artists to create music and culture that inspires action to solve the biggest crisis humanity has ever faced – climate change. More at PeoplesClimateMusic.com.

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Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the impacts severe storms have on our most vulnerable communities, and the lack of prioritization and response they receive from this Administration, including recent reports that Administrator Scott Pruitt is relocating the offices of Environmental Justice and National Environmental Policy Act Compliance out of the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These offices were formed out of a set of recommendations from stakeholders over the years under both Republican and Democratic Administrations. They provide critical expertise, protection of public health, and ensure that input and needs of all communities are fully considered by the agency, including ahead of, during, and following disasters.

“Moving these offices is very alarming, especially in the immediate aftermath of Harvey and looking ahead at Irma. This is another example of how this Administration is dissecting and dismantling the agency with a scalpel to favor industry polluters instead of protecting the health and prosperity of the American people. These actions politicize and weaken these offices, and continue to show a lack of connection to the voices and input from our most vulnerable communities by this Administration. This is at a time when the current leadership should be moving forward on the expansion of these offices to address the vastly disproportionate environmental impacts happening across the country to our most vulnerable communities – including communities of color, low income communities, and indigenous populations.”

“America’s most vulnerable communities are hardest hit and often undervalued, underestimated and marginalized by decision makers following storms like Harvey. For decades communities like Port Arthur and the Manchester neighborhood in Houston have been breathing in heavy toxic air that literally takes their breath away. Following Harvey, they now face even stronger first-hand exposure to harmful and unknown chemicals in their air, water, and land. First responders to the disaster areas are also exposed to these harmful toxins as they put their lives on the line to save lives and property. Vulnerable communities are also not typically prioritized in rebuilding efforts. They are often relocated to the most undesirable areas with the greatest risk to future public health threats and face many disproportionate hurdles as they attempt to recover financially.”

“Unfortunately, thus far the Trump Administration has not shown that they care about our most vulnerable communities. They have also shown an unwillingness to consider the impacts of an increasingly changing climate into their planning, policies, and priority setting for the American people. The current Administration has proposed drastic budget cuts that are not connected to the reality and dangers that vulnerable communities face, or what science is telling us. Their proposed cuts to NOAA, FEMA, EPA, and HUD in particular will have a direct correlation to the preparedness, response, and recovery within these communities hardest hit by Harvey and other severe storms of increasing magnitude, like Hurricane Irma approaching the U.S. mainland.”

“Vulnerable communities are forced into even more desperate situations, where their existing challenges are significantly compounded by these stronger storms and lack of foresight, empathy, and action by this Administration. This is literally putting people’s lives in jeopardy. This is the time we need to recognize the power, solutions, and opportunities to better prepare, respond, and rebuild for all. We need to work together to take our most vulnerable communities from surviving to thriving.”

To support frontline communities recovering from Harvey, please visit #AJustHarveyRecovery and Hip Hop Caucus’ resource page here.

For more, please be sure to check out Mustafa’s latest appearance on AM Joy, video interview with Robert Reich, and interview on the Politically Re-Active podcast with Kamau Bell and Hari Kondabolu. You can also keep up with him on Twitter (@EJinAction).

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative network, HHC addresses core issues impacting under-served and vulnerable communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org. Follow HHC online @HipHopCaucus on all social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali is a renowned national speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. He joined the Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Throughout his career he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org202-506-5882

Hip Hop Caucus Condemns Trump Administration’s Latest Moves at EPA, while Vulnerable Communities Deal With Impacts of Severe Storms

Hip Hop Caucus’ non-partisan initiative reaches young voters and voters of color with Virginia cultural influencers issuing a calls to action to register to  vote by October 16th deadline

Washington D.C.Respect My Vote! kicked off a final push to make sure people across the Commonwealth are registered to vote ahead of the November 7th elections. The campaign is promoting young Virginia media, artist, activist and social media influencers as spokespeople.

Last Friday marked the 100th birthday of the civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer and the campaign joined the civil rights community to call for people to honor her by registering to vote. Rev Yearwood, Hip Hop Caucus President & CEO, wrote an op-ed in RVA Magazine connecting her spirit to the importance of voting in the upcoming Virginia elections. This year’s Virginia campaign is being lead by No Malice, formerly of the acclaimed rap duo The Clipse and Virginia Beach native. The deadline to register in Virginia is October 16th, and people can do so by visiting RespectMyVote.com.

For more information and to stay updated, check out:

Respect My Vote! was first launched in 2008 and has since engaged millions of people during election cycles throughout the United States . Through partnerships with nonprofits, businesses, media and entertainment companies, and celebrity spokespeople, the campaign focuses on voter registration, voter education, get-out-the-vote, and voter rights . Spokespeople have included Vic Mensa, T.I., Charlamagne tha God, Keke Palmer, 2 Chainz, Amber Rose, Future, and hundreds of other artists and community leaders. Respect My Vote! is a non-partisan, voter registration, education, and mobilization campaign of the Hip Hop Caucus

Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues affecting underserved and vulnerable communities. HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle, as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity . More at HipHopCaucus.org.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

At one of Hip Hop’s largest annual events, Hip Hop Caucus is working with activists, academics, and artists to drive social justice and environmental solutions through advocacy and non-partisan electoral organizing

Atlanta, Georgia – October 6, 2017 – This week at one of the world’s largest hip hop festivals,  Hip Hop Caucus has partnered with A3C to train and organize young people on the power of art, music, and hip hop culture advance social justice and civic engagement. Founded in 2005, A3C has grown from a local showcase to become one of the most important hip-hop events of the year, and is commonly referred to as “Hip-Hop’s Family Reunion.”

The Action Summit at A3C powered by Hip Hop Caucus is two days of dedicated programming at the Auburn Avenue Research Library in the center of the festival stages and events in Atlanta. The programing includes a series of events and workshops featuring activists, academics, and artists that explore how to best address social justice challenges through community driven solutions and develop actionable initiatives for young people. Three major tracks for the Action Summit are Police Reform, Getting Out the Youth Vote, and Climate Change and Environmental Justice.

As part of the Action Summit, Hip Hop Caucus joined forces with the Center for Civic Innovation for the A3C Action Pitch National Competition to find, support, and invest in new, innovative ideas that use hip-hop culture as a vehicle to advance social justice and civic engagement. Five finalists will do their final pitches in front of judges and a national audience at the A3C Action Summit this evening. Finalists are competing for $10,000 in cash and business development training. More information on the pitch competition can be found here.

“Social justice movements need innovation and need the energy of young people to drive bold agendas,” said Liz Havstad, COO and Executive Director of Hip Hop Caucus, who will be one of the judges of the Pitch Competition. “Hip Hop Caucus invests in creative communities and young people to be the drivers of change through advocacy and non-partisan electoral organizing, and we are proud to bring empowerment to cultural spaces like the A3C Festival and Conference.”

The Action Summit at A3C powered by Hip Hop Caucus will also feature keynotes from No Malice, formerly of the acclaimed rap duo The Clipse, and Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President of Climate, Environmental Justice & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus.

“At this moment in our country, we must use hip hop – the artform and the culture – to help us organize our collective voices to create change,” said No Malice. “There is a moral voice in Hip Hop that speaks to injustice and struggle, and that is what we are tapping into at the Action Summit at A3C powered by Hip Hop Caucus, and it is what we are tapping into right now in my home state of Virginia to get young people out to vote in our election this November.”

For more information about Hip Hop Caucus at A3C, please visit www.HipHopCaucus.org/A3C and www.a3cfestival.com/action-summit. You can also continue the conversation with us on social media, @HipHopCaucus on everything.

MEDIA CONTACT: Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-870-8476

ABOUT HIP HOP CAUCUSFormed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues affecting underserved and vulnerable communities. HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity.

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Landmark bill enhances public health and participation in our democracy, while empowering our most vulnerable communities facing hardships

Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, released the statement below about The Environmental Justice Act of 2017, introduced yesterday by U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Rep. Raul Ruiz, M.D. (D-CA). The bill protects against potential executive actions to rollback basic public health protections and public input in decision-making, requires federal agencies to address environmental justice through agency actions and permitting decisions, and strengthens legal protections against environmental injustice for communities of color, low-income communities, and indigenous communities.

“We applaud Senator Booker and Congressman Ruiz for introducing the Environmental Justice Act of 2017 and call for its passage. This is a vital piece of legislation introduced at a time when our most vulnerable communities are under extreme hardships due to the reckless decisions of the current Administration, impacts we are seeing right now from climate change, ongoing disproportionate impacts from air and water pollution, and improper use and disposal of toxic chemicals by industry.”

“The common sense proposals outlined in this bill come from over 25 years of stakeholder engagement and bipartisan input. The bill provides basic protections, legal resources, and tools to empower local communities so that they can take their communities from surviving to thriving.”

“By strengthening our most vulnerable communities, we strengthen America.”

More information about the bill can be found here.

Mustafa Santiago Ali, SVP at Hip Hop Caucus, announcing the bill with Senator Booker and Rep Ruiz – October 24, 2017

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues impacting underserved and vulnerable communities . HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle, as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org. Follow HHC online @HipHopCaucus on all social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali joined Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. As a renowned speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator, he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, released the statement below about EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt’s anticipated move to repeal the Clean Power Plan.

“This backwards move is another clear indication that fossil fuel industry corporations have taken control of the Environmental Protection Agency. It simply does not make sense for our pocketbooks and health. Unfortunately our most vulnerable communities will face the brunt of this irresponsible decision, including disproportionate health impacts, while rich corporations that have control over the EPA will reap the profits.”

“The Trump Administration is failing on its obligation to protect the planet for future generations by ignoring what science is telling us. Without cutting the carbon pollution fueling climate change, we are only going to see stronger storms and more wildfires like the disasters that continue to ravage our country. They are also ignoring the economic opportunities the clean energy economy presents us with, and instead, choose to double and triple down on an already dying industry. The clean energy economy is here and the rest of the world is moving on without us. This puts us at a tremendous economic disadvantage both home and abroad.”

“Hip Hop Caucus urges states to continue carrying out their own plans to cut emissions and transition to 100% clean energy for all. We also urge the public to participate in the upcoming opportunities to refute this irresponsible move through public comment. Instead of favoring polluters, we need to protect the health and prosperity of the American people. Please know that this dangerous move by Scott Pruitt will not be met without a fight.”

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that connects the Hip Hop community to the civic process to build power and create positive change. Through a collaborative leadership network and support of community-driven solutions, HHC focuses on addressing core issues affecting underserved and vulnerable communities. HHC hopes to establish the culture and practice of voting as part of a desired civic lifestyle, as well as empower and train leaders and volunteers from our communities to be strategic leaders, messengers, and spokespeople for issues critical to equality, justice, and opportunity. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org and by following @HipHopCaucus on social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali is a renowned national speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. He joined the Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Throughout his career he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

Washington, D.C. – October 28, 2017 – Rev.  Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the “Sandy5” march calling for leaders to take action on climate change and accelerate a just transition to clean energy. 

“We march to remember victims of Superstorm Sandy and say never again. We demand that our leaders act now to address the increasing impacts of climate change and help our communities move from surviving to thriving. Without cutting the carbon pollution fueling climate change, we are going to see stronger storms, like Sandy, Harvey, Irma, and Maria . We need to stop supporting the fossil fuel industry and stand up to the leaders at the federal, state, and local levels that value profit over people. Solutions to climate change exist and we can no longer wait to act – the time is now to protect our communities and the planet for future generations.”

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Washington, D.C. – Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the tragic and senseless attack at the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival in Las Vegas last night. The terrorist attack left over 50 people dead and 400 injured, in the most deadly mass shooting in modern United States history.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the victims that lost their lives from this absolute senseless attack. It is hard to comprehend why this would happen and we grieve with the families and friends of the victims in this dark time. They will never be forgotten.”

“We call for a renewed focus and immediate action on America’s gun policies and mental health issues. Weapons created for the battlefield are easily accessible in this country, including high powered rifles with extended magazines. Mental health issues too often go unaddressed and combined with unlimited access to increasingly sophisticated and powerful weapons, we continue to see tragedies unfold. From Columbine High School, to Sandy Hook Elementary School, to Pulse Nightclub, now Mandalay Bay on the Las Vegas strip – enough is enough. Let us come together and call on our elected leaders to take action that is needed to protect us against these senseless acts as much as possible. More can be done. What is it going to take for our leaders to act? How many more innocent people need to die and how many more families need to be destroyed?”

“Music is a unifying force – people attend concerts because of their shared love of music, whether it is country or hip hop. It is truly devastating to see that love and unity at a concert disrupted by such a despicable act. Instilling fear in the public through mass shootings is the definition of terrorism. Let us grieve now and also use this moment to come together to call for meaningful action to protect ourselves, family members, friends, neighbors, and fellow citizens in the future.”

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People’s Climate Music Releases New Single Featuring Jeremih and Antonique Smith to Move People to Act on Climate, Proceeds to Storm Relief Efforts

Cover of the 1969 Beatles iconic song inspires hope to solve climate change and support communities impacted by hurricanes and environmental disaster

Washington, D.C., September 22, 2017 – Today Hip Hop Caucus, creator of People’s Climate Music, debuted “Here Comes the Sun,” on iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal and Amazon Music, featuring Grammy nominated singers Jeremih and Antonique Smith. The inspirational track is a cover of the song written by George Harrison that was first released on the Beatles’ 1969 pivotal album, Abbey Road. All profits from the record are being donated to Hurricanes Harvey and Irma relief efforts in frontline communities. Through People’s Climate Music, Hip Hop Caucus organizes diverse and influential artists to create music that inspires action on the climate crisis, with a goal of leading the way to a sustainable, 100% clean energy future for our planet.

Jeremih and Antonique Smith’s interpretation of “Here Comes the Sun” is a message about our humanity, as people of all walks of life come together to help each other in disaster and crises.

“We reprised the song in a way that keeps the essence of the original version, and we appropriated it as a message of hope to those today who are working on the right side of history– for justice, equality, and a healthy planet,” said Jeremih.

The song is accompanied by a call to action for people to take at www.PeoplesClimateMusic.com/HCTS. A promise to band together for the immediate and long-term recovery work from Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, and to prepare vulnerable communities for climate adaptation and an equitable transition to a clean economy, the project calls on people to use their voices to put pressure on our world leaders to act on climate change now.

“Poor communities and communities of color are impacted first and worst by the climate crisis,” said Antonique Smith. “I’ve traveled across the country meeting with communities on the frontlines of pollution and environmental disasters, and the purpose of our revival of ‘Here Comes the Sun’ is to bring more attention and support to their work and leadership on the frontlines.”

To mark People’s Climate Music’s third anniversary, a trailer for the “Here Comes the Sun” music video featuring Jeremih and Antonique Smith will premiere during Climate Week NYC 2017 at Hip Hop Caucus’ Frontline Communities – The Untold Stories of The Climate Movement event on Sunday, September 24th at The New School.

“With the power of culture and artists who have the ability to reach people everywhere, we are expanding the climate movement,” explained Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President and CEO of Hip Hop Caucus. “We must build a movement big enough and powerful enough to drive a transition to 100% clean energy for all. A healthy planet requires justice and equality so that everyone’s communities are clean, healthy, and safe places to live.”

“Here Comes the Sun” is available on all streaming and online stores including iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal and Amazon Music. Find the song at: www.PeoplesClimateMusic.com/HCTS For more information about People’s Climate Music visit peoplesclimatemusic.com or to continue the social conversation, visit Facebook.com/hiphopcaucus.

About Hip Hop Caucus (www.hiphopcaucus.org) Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting underserved communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders.

About People’s Climate Music (www.peoplesclimatemusic.com) Climate change is the most significant global issue of our time. The adverse impacts of climate change can be seen in unsafe water supplies, disproportionate pollution in poor communities, and extreme weather like hurricanes, heat waves and drought. It’s only going to get worse unless we work together to create a big change. Over the past decade, Hip Hop Caucus has been building support for the climate movement among cultural influencers. People’s Climate Music is a large-scale project that is expanding the base and scope of the climate movement, reaching deeper into popular consciousness to drive climate action among diverse constituencies, and inspiring action.

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HIP HOP CAUCUS PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 5, 2017
MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

Washington, D.C. – Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the below statement in response to the Trump Administration’s decision to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program:

“We the people will not stand for this Administration’s continued blatant disregard for our most vulnerable communities, cruel actions that will tear apart thousands of families, and fanning of the flames of hate and bigotry. The decision to end DACA today is so cruel, even this Administration decided to wait a few days until after a natural disaster devastated millions of our brothers and sisters on the Gulf Coast to announce it. Ending DACA will certainly be a man-made disaster, one that will have drastic negative implications on America’s families, economy, and moral fabric for years to come. This decision also comes on the heels of Charlottesville, where the whole world saw America’s ugliest side. We will continue to relentlessly counter this hate and bigotry supported by this Administration with love. All power to the people.”

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting under-served and vulnerable communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org.

HIP HOP CAUCUS PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 3, 2017
MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

New Orleans Community, Hip Hop Artists, and Activists Commemorate 12th Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, Call for a Just Harvey Recovery for All

New Orleans, LA – Today the Hip Hop Caucus, New Orleans Katrina Commemoration Foundation, Nuthin’ But Fire Records, Q93, People’s Climate Music, and many other community partners hosted the 12th Annual Hurricane Katrina March and Second Line.

The day’s events began with a healing ceremony next to the breached levee in the Lower Ninth Ward, followed by a march through the streets which fed into a second line. The second line ended with a rally at Hunter’s Field hosted by Wild Wayne of Q93 and renowned New Orleans’ poet Sunni Patterson. The rally featured remarks and performances by a variety of prominent community and cultural leaders, including Mia X, Sess 4-5, Roi Anthony, Hustlaz, Lady Red, Yung Pro, Shorty, Wildboy Woody, and DJ7.

This event serves as the largest annual community based commemoration of the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and shows first-hand the consequences of climate disasters on our communities. Each year this event honors the resiliency of the people, remembers the lives lost, and encourages further support for the communities most devastated by Hurricane Katrina. This year organizers also called for a just and equitable recovery from Hurricane Harvey which caused widespread flooding in southeast Texas and southwest Louisiana this past week.

“The people of New Orleans will not forget those who were lost 12 years ago and it is incredibly powerful to march in the same streets where your relatives died,” said Rev Yearwood, President & CEO, Hip Hop Caucus. “This anniversary is also a moment of solidarity, as millions are currently being impacted by Hurricane Harvey in Texas and Louisiana. Let us help our brothers and sisters in the Gulf get through this historic event, just as the City of Houston did by taking in over 100,000 people impacted by Hurricane Katrina 12 years ago. In that same spirit, we extend our hands and stand for a just recovery as we begin to heal and rebuild.”

Participants throughout the day also highlighted the ongoing struggle of families to live and thrive in post-Katrina New Orleans. Participants also called on leaders to do more to better prepare our most vulnerable communities to withstand future natural disasters by investing in smarter infrastructure and addressing climate change.

“We will never forget Katrina and what it did to our people,” said Sess 4-5, event organizer, leader of Hip Hop Caucus New Orleans, and recording artist and community activist. “We also want to shine a light on the fact that many people impacted by the storm are still not getting the help they deserve, even 12 years after it hit. We will keep on marching every year to remember those lost, bring our community closer together, and hold our elected leaders accountable so that they can right the wrongs of the past and create a better future for all.”

Organizers asked participants, supporters, and leaders to:

  • Remember: by calling on the state of Louisiana to make August 29 a holiday commemorating the lives lost in Katrina.
  • Right the wrongs: by calling for racial and economic justice so that in the face of disaster, the poor and people of color are not left without the ability to rebuild communities with good schools, good jobs, and good public health and safety.  
  • Say never again: by calling for action on climate change from our world’s leaders, otherwise we will only see more of these extreme weather events like Hurricane Katrina and Harvey around the world.
  • Call for a just and equitable Harvey recovery and rebuild for all: The most vulnerable communities – including low-income and communities of color – are being hardest hit. Help support by visiting anothergulf.com/a-just-harvey-recovery.

For more options on how to support Harvey recovery efforts, please visit hiphopcaucus.org/hurricane-harvey.  

About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting underserved communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org.  

About New Orleans Katrina Commemoration Foundation: New Orleans Katrina Commemoration Foundation annually organizes the largest community-led remembrance event on the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, August 29th.

About the People’s Climate Music: People’s Climate Music is helping to expand the climate movement by organizing diverse and influential artists to create music and culture that inspires action to solve the biggest crisis humanity has ever faced – climate change. More at PeoplesClimateMusic.com.

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Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the impacts severe storms have on our most vulnerable communities, and the lack of prioritization and response they receive from this Administration, including recent reports that Administrator Scott Pruitt is relocating the offices of Environmental Justice and National Environmental Policy Act Compliance out of the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These offices were formed out of a set of recommendations from stakeholders over the years under both Republican and Democratic Administrations. They provide critical expertise, protection of public health, and ensure that input and needs of all communities are fully considered by the agency, including ahead of, during, and following disasters.

“Moving these offices is very alarming, especially in the immediate aftermath of Harvey and looking ahead at Irma. This is another example of how this Administration is dissecting and dismantling the agency with a scalpel to favor industry polluters instead of protecting the health and prosperity of the American people. These actions politicize and weaken these offices, and continue to show a lack of connection to the voices and input from our most vulnerable communities by this Administration. This is at a time when the current leadership should be moving forward on the expansion of these offices to address the vastly disproportionate environmental impacts happening across the country to our most vulnerable communities – including communities of color, low income communities, and indigenous populations.”

“America’s most vulnerable communities are hardest hit and often undervalued, underestimated and marginalized by decision makers following storms like Harvey. For decades communities like Port Arthur and the Manchester neighborhood in Houston have been breathing in heavy toxic air that literally takes their breath away. Following Harvey, they now face even stronger first-hand exposure to harmful and unknown chemicals in their air, water, and land. First responders to the disaster areas are also exposed to these harmful toxins as they put their lives on the line to save lives and property. Vulnerable communities are also not typically prioritized in rebuilding efforts. They are often relocated to the most undesirable areas with the greatest risk to future public health threats and face many disproportionate hurdles as they attempt to recover financially.”

“Unfortunately, thus far the Trump Administration has not shown that they care about our most vulnerable communities. They have also shown an unwillingness to consider the impacts of an increasingly changing climate into their planning, policies, and priority setting for the American people. The current Administration has proposed drastic budget cuts that are not connected to the reality and dangers that vulnerable communities face, or what science is telling us. Their proposed cuts to NOAA, FEMA, EPA, and HUD in particular will have a direct correlation to the preparedness, response, and recovery within these communities hardest hit by Harvey and other severe storms of increasing magnitude, like Hurricane Irma approaching the U.S. mainland.”

“Vulnerable communities are forced into even more desperate situations, where their existing challenges are significantly compounded by these stronger storms and lack of foresight, empathy, and action by this Administration. This is literally putting people’s lives in jeopardy. This is the time we need to recognize the power, solutions, and opportunities to better prepare, respond, and rebuild for all. We need to work together to take our most vulnerable communities from surviving to thriving.”

To support frontline communities recovering from Harvey, please visit #AJustHarveyRecovery and Hip Hop Caucus’ resource page here.

For more, please be sure to check out Mustafa’s latest appearance on AM Joy, video interview with Robert Reich, and interview on the Politically Re-Active podcast with Kamau Bell and Hari Kondabolu. You can also keep up with him on Twitter (@EJinAction).

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative network, HHC addresses core issues impacting under-served and vulnerable communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org. Follow HHC online @HipHopCaucus on all social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali is a renowned national speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. He joined the Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Throughout his career he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org202-506-5882

Condemning Trump Administration’s Latest Moves at EPA, while Vulnerable Communities Deal With Impacts of Severe Storms

IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 16, 2017

MEDIA CONTACT
Yamila Pino, yamila@prosperolatino.com, (202) 440-1432
Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A broad coalition of environmental, public health and public interest groups, including prominent African American and Latino organizations, issued the following joint statement in response to this past weekend’s white nationalist gathering and violence in Charlottesville, Virginia and President Trump’s inexplicable reversal as to who’s to blame for the violence:

“Our nation witnessed tragic, despicable and completely unnecessary violence in Charlottesville this past weekend. Driven by hatred and racism, these white nationalist and neo-nazi groups and their actions do not represent our values, nor the values of the vast majority of Americans. We also remember the life of Heather Heyer and commit to continuing the struggle she died for.

The behavior of white nationalists is neither acceptable nor normal and we will continue to stand in solidarity against such hatred and in defense of the rights and safety of communities across the country like Charlottesville. We will not tolerate any form of hatred or discrimination and will align ourselves with communities of color and creeds that are the target of ongoing bigotry.

We call on our political leaders to condemn these acts not just today, but every time they happen. President Trump and all political leaders, no matter their party affiliation, have an obligation to stand up against such hate groups immediately and unequivocally. Their voices and words — and lack thereof — matter.

The tragic events in Charlottesville fall on our shoulders as a nation. No one who stands for justice, equality, and human dignity can stay silent any longer. We will stand unified against the white nationalist movement that everyday threatens America’s people and ideals, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all. We will ultimately prevail by countering this hate with love.”

17 for Peace and Justice
350.org
African American Nature and Parks Experience
Alaska Wilderness League
Alliance for Climate Education (ACE)
Audubon Naturalist Society
Austin 2030 District
Azul
Be The Change -USA
Black permaculture network
Bold Alliance
California League of Conservation Voters
Care About Climate
Center for Biological Diversity
Center for Diversity & the Environment
Center for International Environmental Law
Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN)
Chispa
Citizens’ Climate Lobby
Clean Air Council
Climate Hawks Vote
Climate Nexus
Coalition Center for Popular Democracy
Defend Our Future
Defenders of Wildlife
Diverse Environmental Leaders Speakers Bureau
Dogwood Alliance
Dynamic Aptitude
Earthjustice
Earthworks
Endangered Species Coalition
Environmental Defense Fund
Environmental Leadership Program
EPCF – Climate Change Disruption
Food & Water Watch
Friends of Organ Mountains Desert Peaks
Friends of the Earth
Green 2.0
Green For All
GreenFaith
GreenLatinos
Greenpeace USA
Greensgrow
Hip Hop Caucus
Hispanic Access Foundation
Hispanic Federation
IDEASForUs
Imagine Power LLC
Institute for Sustainable Communities
Institute for Sutainable Urban Transformation
Interfaith Power & Light
International Mayan League
La Union Hace La Fuerza
Latino Victory Project
League of Conservation Voters
League of United Latin American Citizens
Living United for Change in Arizona (LUCHA)
Maine Conservation Voters
Mi Familia Vota
Moms Clean Air Force
Mount Moriah FBH Church
Mt Eastern Joy, LLC
National Hispanic Medical Association
National Ocean Protection
National Parks Conservation Association
Natural Resources Defense Council
NCLR Action Fund
Network for Sustainable Financial Markets
NextGen America
Noble Renewables Group of the West
North American Students of Cooperation (NASCO)
Ocean Conservancy
Oceana
Our Climate
Outdoor Afro
Peoples Climate Movement
Physicians for Social Responsibility
Population Connection
Power Shift Network
Public Citizen
Rachel Carson Council
Rachel’s Network
Radiance Studios LLC
Rainforest Action Network
Roosevelt Institute
Rural Coalition
Sachamama
Save EPA
Sierra Club
Sierra Club Virginia Chapter
Sunrise
Sustainable Agricultural Education Association
Sustainable Practices
SustainUS
The Environmental Justice Center at Chestnut Hill United Church
The Evangelical Environmental Network
The Farmworker Association of Florida, Inc
The Joy Trip Project
The Praxis Project
The Trail Posse
The Wilderness Society
Toxics Action Center
Union of Concerned Scientists
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Virginia Interfaith Power & Light
Virginia League of Conservation Voters
Voces Verdes
Voices for Progress
Voto Latino
Waterkeeper Alliance
WE ACT for Environmental Justice
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PARA DISTRIBUCIÓN INMEDIATA
August 16, 2017

CONTACTO PARA LOS MEDIOS
Yamila Pino, (202) 440-1432 / (202) 660-1433
Grupos ambientalistas y de interés público condenan la violencia racista y la intolerancia en Charlottesville, Virginia

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Una amplia coalición de grupos ambientalistas, de salud pública e interés público, que también incluyen reconocidas organizaciones afroamericanas y latinas, emitieron las siguientes declaraciones en respuesta a la manifestación y violencia de nacionalistas blancos el fin de semana pasado en Charlottesville, Virginia, y el inexplicable revés del President Trump sobre los culpables de los sucesos:

“Nuestra nación ha sido testigo de una violencia trágica, despiadada y completamente innecesaria este pasado fin de semana en Charlottesville. Impulsados por el odio y el racismo, estos grupos de nacionalistas blancos y neo-nazis, al igual que sus acciones, no representan nuestros valores. Tampoco representan los valores de la mayoría de los estadounidenses. También recordamos la vida de Heather Heyer y nos comprometemos a continuar la lucha que le costó la vida.

El comportamiento de nacionalistas blancos no es aceptable. Por tal razón, continuaremos expresando nuestra solidaridad en contra de dicho odio y defendiendo los derechos y bienestar de comunidades como Charlottesville a lo largo del país. No toleraremos ninguna expresión de odio o discriminación y nos unimos a las comunidades de color y de diversos credos que son víctimas de la intolerancia. Buy Professional Cialis

Hacemos un llamado a nuestros líderes políticos para que repudien estos actos no sólo en estos momentos sino cada vez que ocurran. El Presidente Trump y todos los funcionarios electos— independientemente de su afiliación política— tienen la obligación de no quedarse callados ante estos grupos de odio inmediata e inequívocamente. Sus voces y palabras— al igual que la ausencia de ellas— importan.

Los trágicos eventos de Charlottesville pesan sobre la nación entera. Todo el que luche por la justicia, igualdad y dignidad del ser humano tiene el deber de levantar su voz. Nos uniremos en contra de lo que representa el movimiento supremacista blanco que día a día es una amenaza al pueblo estadounidense y sus ideales como el derecho a la dignidad, libertad y búsqueda de la felicidad. Al final saldremos victoriosos al hacerle frente a este odio con amor”.

 

17 for Peace and Justice
350.org
African American Nature and Parks Experience
Alaska Wilderness League
Alliance for Climate Education (ACE)
Audubon Naturalist Society
Austin 2030 District
Azul
Be The Change -USA
Black permaculture network
Bold Alliance
California League of Conservation Voters
Care About Climate
Center for Biological Diversity
Center for Diversity & the Environment
Center for International Environmental Law
Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN)
Chispa
Citizens’ Climate Lobby
Clean Air Council
Climate Hawks Vote
Climate Nexus
Coalition Center for Popular Democracy
Defend Our Future
Defenders of Wildlife
Diverse Environmental Leaders Speakers Bureau
Dogwood Alliance
Dynamic Aptitude
Earthjustice
Earthworks
Endangered Species Coalition
Environmental Defense Fund
Environmental Leadership Program
EPCF – Climate Change Disruption
Food & Water Watch
Friends of Organ Mountains Desert Peaks
Friends of the Earth
Green 2.0
Green For All
GreenFaith
GreenLatinos
Greenpeace USA
Greensgrow
Hip Hop Caucus
Hispanic Access Foundation
Hispanic Federation
IDEASForUs
Imagine Power LLC
Institute for Sustainable Communities
Institute for Sutainable Urban Transformation
Interfaith Power & Light
International Mayan League
La Union Hace La Fuerza
Latino Victory Project
League of Conservation Voters
League of United Latin American Citizens
Living United for Change in Arizona (LUCHA)
Maine Conservation Voters
Mi Familia Vota
Moms Clean Air Force
Mount Moriah FBH Church
Mt Eastern Joy, LLC
National Hispanic Medical Association
National Ocean Protection
National Parks Conservation Association
Natural Resources Defense Council
NCLR Action Fund
Network for Sustainable Financial Markets
NextGen America
Noble Renewables Group of the West
North American Students of Cooperation (NASCO)
Ocean Conservancy
Oceana
Our Climate
Outdoor Afro
Peoples Climate Movement
Physicians for Social Responsibility
Population Connection
Power Shift Network
Public Citizen
Rachel Carson Council
Rachel’s Network
Radiance Studios LLC
Rainforest Action Network
Roosevelt Institute
Rural Coalition
Sachamama
Save EPA
Sierra Club
Sierra Club Virginia Chapter
Sunrise
Sustainable Agricultural Education Association
Sustainable Practices
SustainUS
The Environmental Justice Center at Chestnut Hill United Church
The Evangelical Environmental Network
The Farmworker Association of Florida, Inc
The Joy Trip Project
The Praxis Project
The Trail Posse
The Wilderness Society
Toxics Action Center
Union of Concerned Scientists
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Virginia Interfaith Power & Light
Virginia League of Conservation Voters
Voces Verdes
Voices for Progress
Voto Latino
Waterkeeper Alliance
WE ACT for Environmental Justice

###

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Hosted by Wild Wayne & Sunni Patterson

Tuesday, August 29, 2017
10:00 AM – Lower Ninth Ward

Free to the Public

March is from Jourdan Avenue and Galvez Street, to Hunter Field

#BiggestSecondLineonaTuesday

For more information, call 504-342-6977.

About: Hip Hop Caucus, People’s Climate Music and Nuthin’ But Fire Records will be holding the 12th annual Katrina March and Second Line for the 12-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. The event is set to have radio personality Wild Wayne of Q93 and poet Sunni Patterson as hosts. The Katrina March and Second Line is scheduled to start in the morning in the Lower 9th Ward, where the levees broke in the storm, and end at Hunter’s Field, where a rally will be held with speakers and performers. More information coming soon.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:August 13, 2017

PRESS CONTACT: Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org202-870-8476

Yesterday, this country’s leadership failed its citizens and allowed White supremacists, KKK, and Neo-Nazi infiltrators to be violent, vicious, and murderous in the city of Charlottesville, VA. Friday night the nation had been alarmed by the lighted torch invasion of the UVA campus by hundreds of Neo-Nazis and White supremacists chanting racist slurs including “Jews cannot replace us,” “Blood and Soil”, and spewing racial epithets. Unimpeded by police, they rallied for hours, assaulted a small contingent of peaceful counter-protesters before marching on a local church where a civil rights service and rally was taking place before being forcefully dispersed.

The day began with one group of nonviolent activist s led by Black Clergy and interracial/interdenominational clergy, who had come to the city to participate in peaceful social justice actions and condemn hatred. They were attacked by a mob of White supremacists, KKK members, and Neo-Nazis, made up of mostly armed white males who came prepared to “wipe out oppression”. After a morning and afternoon of violence, James Alex Fields drove his car into the back of racial justice demonstrators returning home and killed 32 year Heather Heyer and injured 19 others. In the end, a community was left in turmoil, lives were lost, people were critically injured, and instead of peace and love, hate and bigotry rang in the air for all the world to see, because the President of the United States, having inspired this atmosphere through his words and misdeeds, ignored what happened.

The Civil Rights Coalition on Policing Reform (“Coalition”) was created in the aftermath of the killing by law enforcement of Michael Brown Jr. in Ferguson, MO in August 2014. The coalition condemns the failure of the White House to profoundly denounce the presence and actions of these hate groups in Charlottesville, VA yesterday. Donald Trump’s speech late in the day was a complete abdication of his leadership role as President to denounce organized and violent bigots hate mongers. Instead, he said, “ We condemn in the strongest possible terms this egregious display of hatred, bigotry, and violence. On many sides.” These vague and insidious words are far from an honest and full condemnation of the bigotry and hatred of these white supremacist groups.

The Coalition is also disappointed by the slow and weak response from the Department of Justice (DOJ) to come to the aid of the city of Charlottesville and the peaceful social justice activists. There were clear and visible images via multiple media outlets showing hateful words, spitting, hitting, and other violent acts of terror by these White supremacist groups. The lack of a timely response to these images from the Attorney General of the United States is oppressive and encouraged the continued violence by these domestic terrorists. Made late Saturday night, the statement from DOJ “to look into possible hate crimes” and to open a federal civil rights investigation into “the deadly car attack” are is limited, slow, and doesn’t encompass all of the crimes that happened yesterday. Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ statement : was “The violence and deaths in Charlottesville strike at the heart of American law and justice. When such actions arise from racial bigotry and hatred, they betray our core values and cannot be tolerated.” This is degrading to the office of Attorney General as he states “…such actions arise from ….”, while refusing to poignantly and emphatically state that these deeds were acts of terrorism done by bigots and White supremacists whose primary purpose for gathering in Charlottesville was to be violent.

We must not forget the reasons why Black Clergy and many social justice activists made the pilgrimage to Charlottesville, VA. Vice-Mayor Wes Bellamy took on a noble task of eliminating the hurtful and harmful history that the remembrance of the Confederacy brought to the city. He welcomed vivacious dialogue with his city and was met by hateful bigotry and violence by White supremacists, KKK members, and Neo-Nazis. The Black Clergy and social justice activists who went to Charlottesville joined the many people of this nation, of this world, who denounce and resist hatred everyday. They are working to create a world that is inclusive and respectful of all lives. We embrace the words of Heather Heyer’s mother, Susan Bro,
“..I want her death to be a rallying cry for justice and equality and fairness and compassion.”

The Civil Rights Coalition on Policing Reform will remain active in its charge to create a better law enforcement system in this country and at the same time join brave social justice activists in our quest for “igniting change” in the world.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A broad coalition of environmental, public health and public interest groups, including prominent African American and Latino organizations, issued the following joint statement in response to this past weekend’s white nationalist gathering and violence in Charlottesville, Virginia:

“Our nation witnessed tragic, despicable and completely unnecessary violence in Charlottesville this past weekend. Driven by hatred and racism, these white nationalist and neo nazis groups and their actions do not represent the values upon which this country was founded, nor the values of the vast majority of Americans. We also remember the life of Heather Heyer and commit to continuing the struggle she died for.”

“The behavior of white nationalists is neither acceptable nor normal and we will continue to stand in solidarity against such hatred and in defense of the rights and safety of communities across the country like Charlottesville.  We will not tolerate any form of hatred or discrimination and will align ourselves with communities of color and creeds that are the target of ongoing bigotry.”

“We call on our political leaders to condemn these acts not just today, but every time they happen. President Trump and all political leaders, no matter their party affiliation, have an obligation to stand up against such hate groups immediately and unequivocally. Their voices and words — and lack thereof — matter.”

The tragic events in Charlottesville fall on our shoulders as a nation. No one who stands for justice, equality, and human dignity can stay silent any longer. We will stand unified against the white nationalist movement that everyday threatens America’s people and ideals, including the life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all. We will ultimately prevail by countering this hate with love.

# # #

HIP HOP CAUCUS PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 5, 2017
MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

Washington, D.C. – Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the below statement in response to the Trump Administration’s decision to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program:

“We the people will not stand for this Administration’s continued blatant disregard for our most vulnerable communities, cruel actions that will tear apart thousands of families, and fanning of the flames of hate and bigotry. The decision to end DACA today is so cruel, even this Administration decided to wait a few days until after a natural disaster devastated millions of our brothers and sisters on the Gulf Coast to announce it. Ending DACA will certainly be a man-made disaster, one that will have drastic negative implications on America’s families, economy, and moral fabric for years to come. This decision also comes on the heels of Charlottesville, where the whole world saw America’s ugliest side. We will continue to relentlessly counter this hate and bigotry supported by this Administration with love. All power to the people.”

###

About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting under-served and vulnerable communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org.

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Hip Hop Family and Friends,

Today is the 12th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. We remember those who lost their lives during the storm and recognize the resiliency of our communities in the Gulf Region. This anniversary is also a moment of solidarity, as millions of our fellow brothers and sisters are currently being impacted by Hurricane Harvey.

That is why Hip Hop Caucus is asking you to help.

 

Our most vulnerable communities – low-income, seniors, disabled, and communities of color – are being hardest hit. Recovery from this this unprecedented storm is going to take an unprecedented amount of support from all of us.

Here is how you can help now:

 

 

GENERALGlobalGiving is a large crowdfunding community with the goal of raising $2 million for its Harvey fund, with a focused on immediate needs and longer-term relief. CLICK HERE TO DONATE

 

FOODHouston Food Bank is providing immediate food distribution to families most in need. CLICK HERE TO DONATE

 

SHELTERCoalition for the Homeless of Houston/Harris County coordinates the city’s response to homelessness and has been providing updated information on shelters for people displaced by the storm. CLICK HERE TO DONATE

 

DISABILITIES: Portlight Strategies provides inclusive disaster relief and has a hotline specifically for the disabled impacted by Harvey (1-800-626-4959). CLICK HERE TO DONATE

 

KIDS/SENIORSDonate to the Texas Diaper Bank, an organization working to meet the basic needs of vulnerable babies, children with disabilities, and seniors. CLICK HERE TO DONATE

 

ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE:

For more ideas on where to donate, please visit Charity Navigator’s Hurricane Harvey webpage.

We need to help our brothers and sisters in the Gulf get through this historic event, just as the City of Houston did by taking in over 100,000 people impacted by Hurricane Katrina 12 years ago. In that same spirit, let us act today for those impacted by Hurricane Harvey.

Thank you for your support.

 

For future generations,
Rev Yearwood
President & CEO
Hip Hop Caucus

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HIP HOP CAUCUS PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 7, 2017
MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org202-506-5882

Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the impacts severe storms have on our most vulnerable communities, and the lack of prioritization and response they receive from this Administration, including recent reports that Administrator Scott Pruitt is relocating the offices of Environmental Justice and National Environmental Policy Act Compliance out of the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These offices were formed out of a set of recommendations from stakeholders over the years under both Republican and Democratic Administrations. They provide critical expertise, protection of public health, and ensure that input and needs of all communities are fully considered by the agency, including ahead of, during, and following disasters.

“Moving these offices is very alarming, especially in the immediate aftermath of Harvey and looking ahead at Irma. This is another example of how this Administration is dissecting and dismantling the agency with a scalpel to favor industry polluters instead of protecting the health and prosperity of the American people. These actions politicize and weaken these offices, and continue to show a lack of connection to the voices and input from our most vulnerable communities by this Administration. This is at a time when the current leadership should be moving forward on the expansion of these offices to address the vastly disproportionate environmental impacts happening across the country to our most vulnerable communities – including communities of color, low income communities, and indigenous populations.”

“America’s most vulnerable communities are hardest hit and often undervalued, underestimated and marginalized by decision makers following storms like Harvey. For decades communities like Port Arthur and the Manchester neighborhood in Houston have been breathing in heavy toxic air that literally takes their breath away. Following Harvey, they now face even stronger first-hand exposure to harmful and unknown chemicals in their air, water, and land. First responders to the disaster areas are also exposed to these harmful toxins as they put their lives on the line to save lives and property. Vulnerable communities are also not typically prioritized in rebuilding efforts. They are often relocated to the most undesirable areas with the greatest risk to future public health threats and face many disproportionate hurdles as they attempt to recover financially.”

“Unfortunately, thus far the Trump Administration has not shown that they care about our most vulnerable communities. They have also shown an unwillingness to consider the impacts of an increasingly changing climate into their planning, policies, and priority setting for the American people. The current Administration has proposed drastic budget cuts that are not connected to the reality and dangers that vulnerable communities face, or what science is telling us. Their proposed cuts to NOAA, FEMA, EPA, and HUD in particular will have a direct correlation to the preparedness, response, and recovery within these communities hardest hit by Harvey and other severe storms of increasing magnitude, like Hurricane Irma approaching the U.S. mainland.”

“Vulnerable communities are forced into even more desperate situations, where their existing challenges are significantly compounded by these stronger storms and lack of foresight, empathy, and action by this Administration. This is literally putting people’s lives in jeopardy. This is the time we need to recognize the power, solutions, and opportunities to better prepare, respond, and rebuild for all. We need to work together to take our most vulnerable communities from surviving to thriving.”

To support frontline communities recovering from Harvey, please visit #AJustHarveyRecovery and Hip Hop Caucus’ resource page here.

For more, please be sure to check out Mustafa’s latest appearance on AM Joy, video interview with Robert Reich, and interview on the Politically Re-Active podcast with Kamau Bell and Hari Kondabolu. You can also keep up with him on Twitter (@EJinAction).

###

About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative network, HHC addresses core issues impacting under-served and vulnerable communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org. Follow HHC online @HipHopCaucus on all social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali is a renowned national speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. He joined the Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Throughout his career he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

Statement on Trump’s Decision to End DACA

IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 16, 2017

MEDIA CONTACT
Yamila Pino, yamila@prosperolatino.com, (202) 440-1432
Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A broad coalition of environmental, public health and public interest groups, including prominent African American and Latino organizations, issued the following joint statement in response to this past weekend’s white nationalist gathering and violence in Charlottesville, Virginia and President Trump’s inexplicable reversal as to who’s to blame for the violence:

“Our nation witnessed tragic, despicable and completely unnecessary violence in Charlottesville this past weekend. Driven by hatred and racism, these white nationalist and neo-nazi groups and their actions do not represent our values, nor the values of the vast majority of Americans. We also remember the life of Heather Heyer and commit to continuing the struggle she died for.

The behavior of white nationalists is neither acceptable nor normal and we will continue to stand in solidarity against such hatred and in defense of the rights and safety of communities across the country like Charlottesville. We will not tolerate any form of hatred or discrimination and will align ourselves with communities of color and creeds that are the target of ongoing bigotry.

We call on our political leaders to condemn these acts not just today, but every time they happen. President Trump and all political leaders, no matter their party affiliation, have an obligation to stand up against such hate groups immediately and unequivocally. Their voices and words — and lack thereof — matter.

The tragic events in Charlottesville fall on our shoulders as a nation. No one who stands for justice, equality, and human dignity can stay silent any longer. We will stand unified against the white nationalist movement that everyday threatens America’s people and ideals, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all. We will ultimately prevail by countering this hate with love.”

17 for Peace and Justice
350.org
African American Nature and Parks Experience
Alaska Wilderness League
Alliance for Climate Education (ACE)
Audubon Naturalist Society
Austin 2030 District
Azul
Be The Change -USA
Black permaculture network
Bold Alliance
California League of Conservation Voters
Care About Climate
Center for Biological Diversity
Center for Diversity & the Environment
Center for International Environmental Law
Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN)
Chispa
Citizens’ Climate Lobby
Clean Air Council
Climate Hawks Vote
Climate Nexus
Coalition Center for Popular Democracy
Defend Our Future
Defenders of Wildlife
Diverse Environmental Leaders Speakers Bureau
Dogwood Alliance
Dynamic Aptitude
Earthjustice
Earthworks
Endangered Species Coalition
Environmental Defense Fund
Environmental Leadership Program
EPCF – Climate Change Disruption
Food & Water Watch
Friends of Organ Mountains Desert Peaks
Friends of the Earth
Green 2.0
Green For All
GreenFaith
GreenLatinos
Greenpeace USA
Greensgrow
Hip Hop Caucus
Hispanic Access Foundation
Hispanic Federation
IDEASForUs
Imagine Power LLC
Institute for Sustainable Communities
Institute for Sutainable Urban Transformation
Interfaith Power & Light
International Mayan League
La Union Hace La Fuerza
Latino Victory Project
League of Conservation Voters
League of United Latin American Citizens
Living United for Change in Arizona (LUCHA)
Maine Conservation Voters
Mi Familia Vota
Moms Clean Air Force
Mount Moriah FBH Church
Mt Eastern Joy, LLC
National Hispanic Medical Association
National Ocean Protection
National Parks Conservation Association
Natural Resources Defense Council
NCLR Action Fund
Network for Sustainable Financial Markets
NextGen America
Noble Renewables Group of the West
North American Students of Cooperation (NASCO)
Ocean Conservancy
Oceana
Our Climate
Outdoor Afro
Peoples Climate Movement
Physicians for Social Responsibility
Population Connection
Power Shift Network
Public Citizen
Rachel Carson Council
Rachel’s Network
Radiance Studios LLC
Rainforest Action Network
Roosevelt Institute
Rural Coalition
Sachamama
Save EPA
Sierra Club
Sierra Club Virginia Chapter
Sunrise
Sustainable Agricultural Education Association
Sustainable Practices
SustainUS
The Environmental Justice Center at Chestnut Hill United Church
The Evangelical Environmental Network
The Farmworker Association of Florida, Inc
The Joy Trip Project
The Praxis Project
The Trail Posse
The Wilderness Society
Toxics Action Center
Union of Concerned Scientists
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Virginia Interfaith Power & Light
Virginia League of Conservation Voters
Voces Verdes
Voices for Progress
Voto Latino
Waterkeeper Alliance
WE ACT for Environmental Justice
###

 

PARA DISTRIBUCIÓN INMEDIATA
August 16, 2017

CONTACTO PARA LOS MEDIOS
Yamila Pino, (202) 440-1432 / (202) 660-1433
Grupos ambientalistas y de interés público condenan la violencia racista y la intolerancia en Charlottesville, Virginia

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Una amplia coalición de grupos ambientalistas, de salud pública e interés público, que también incluyen reconocidas organizaciones afroamericanas y latinas, emitieron las siguientes declaraciones en respuesta a la manifestación y violencia de nacionalistas blancos el fin de semana pasado en Charlottesville, Virginia, y el inexplicable revés del President Trump sobre los culpables de los sucesos:

“Nuestra nación ha sido testigo de una violencia trágica, despiadada y completamente innecesaria este pasado fin de semana en Charlottesville. Impulsados por el odio y el racismo, estos grupos de nacionalistas blancos y neo-nazis, al igual que sus acciones, no representan nuestros valores. Tampoco representan los valores de la mayoría de los estadounidenses. También recordamos la vida de Heather Heyer y nos comprometemos a continuar la lucha que le costó la vida.

El comportamiento de nacionalistas blancos no es aceptable. Por tal razón, continuaremos expresando nuestra solidaridad en contra de dicho odio y defendiendo los derechos y bienestar de comunidades como Charlottesville a lo largo del país. No toleraremos ninguna expresión de odio o discriminación y nos unimos a las comunidades de color y de diversos credos que son víctimas de la intolerancia. Buy Professional Cialis

Hacemos un llamado a nuestros líderes políticos para que repudien estos actos no sólo en estos momentos sino cada vez que ocurran. El Presidente Trump y todos los funcionarios electos— independientemente de su afiliación política— tienen la obligación de no quedarse callados ante estos grupos de odio inmediata e inequívocamente. Sus voces y palabras— al igual que la ausencia de ellas— importan.

Los trágicos eventos de Charlottesville pesan sobre la nación entera. Todo el que luche por la justicia, igualdad y dignidad del ser humano tiene el deber de levantar su voz. Nos uniremos en contra de lo que representa el movimiento supremacista blanco que día a día es una amenaza al pueblo estadounidense y sus ideales como el derecho a la dignidad, libertad y búsqueda de la felicidad. Al final saldremos victoriosos al hacerle frente a este odio con amor”.

 

17 for Peace and Justice
350.org
African American Nature and Parks Experience
Alaska Wilderness League
Alliance for Climate Education (ACE)
Audubon Naturalist Society
Austin 2030 District
Azul
Be The Change -USA
Black permaculture network
Bold Alliance
California League of Conservation Voters
Care About Climate
Center for Biological Diversity
Center for Diversity & the Environment
Center for International Environmental Law
Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN)
Chispa
Citizens’ Climate Lobby
Clean Air Council
Climate Hawks Vote
Climate Nexus
Coalition Center for Popular Democracy
Defend Our Future
Defenders of Wildlife
Diverse Environmental Leaders Speakers Bureau
Dogwood Alliance
Dynamic Aptitude
Earthjustice
Earthworks
Endangered Species Coalition
Environmental Defense Fund
Environmental Leadership Program
EPCF – Climate Change Disruption
Food & Water Watch
Friends of Organ Mountains Desert Peaks
Friends of the Earth
Green 2.0
Green For All
GreenFaith
GreenLatinos
Greenpeace USA
Greensgrow
Hip Hop Caucus
Hispanic Access Foundation
Hispanic Federation
IDEASForUs
Imagine Power LLC
Institute for Sustainable Communities
Institute for Sutainable Urban Transformation
Interfaith Power & Light
International Mayan League
La Union Hace La Fuerza
Latino Victory Project
League of Conservation Voters
League of United Latin American Citizens
Living United for Change in Arizona (LUCHA)
Maine Conservation Voters
Mi Familia Vota
Moms Clean Air Force
Mount Moriah FBH Church
Mt Eastern Joy, LLC
National Hispanic Medical Association
National Ocean Protection
National Parks Conservation Association
Natural Resources Defense Council
NCLR Action Fund
Network for Sustainable Financial Markets
NextGen America
Noble Renewables Group of the West
North American Students of Cooperation (NASCO)
Ocean Conservancy
Oceana
Our Climate
Outdoor Afro
Peoples Climate Movement
Physicians for Social Responsibility
Population Connection
Power Shift Network
Public Citizen
Rachel Carson Council
Rachel’s Network
Radiance Studios LLC
Rainforest Action Network
Roosevelt Institute
Rural Coalition
Sachamama
Save EPA
Sierra Club
Sierra Club Virginia Chapter
Sunrise
Sustainable Agricultural Education Association
Sustainable Practices
SustainUS
The Environmental Justice Center at Chestnut Hill United Church
The Evangelical Environmental Network
The Farmworker Association of Florida, Inc
The Joy Trip Project
The Praxis Project
The Trail Posse
The Wilderness Society
Toxics Action Center
Union of Concerned Scientists
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Virginia Interfaith Power & Light
Virginia League of Conservation Voters
Voces Verdes
Voices for Progress
Voto Latino
Waterkeeper Alliance
WE ACT for Environmental Justice

###

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Hosted by Wild Wayne & Sunni Patterson

Tuesday, August 29, 2017
10:00 AM – Lower Ninth Ward

Free to the Public

March is from Jourdan Avenue and Galvez Street, to Hunter Field

#BiggestSecondLineonaTuesday

For more information, call 504-342-6977.

About: Hip Hop Caucus, People’s Climate Music and Nuthin’ But Fire Records will be holding the 12th annual Katrina March and Second Line for the 12-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. The event is set to have radio personality Wild Wayne of Q93 and poet Sunni Patterson as hosts. The Katrina March and Second Line is scheduled to start in the morning in the Lower 9th Ward, where the levees broke in the storm, and end at Hunter’s Field, where a rally will be held with speakers and performers. More information coming soon.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:August 13, 2017

PRESS CONTACT: Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org202-870-8476

Yesterday, this country’s leadership failed its citizens and allowed White supremacists, KKK, and Neo-Nazi infiltrators to be violent, vicious, and murderous in the city of Charlottesville, VA. Friday night the nation had been alarmed by the lighted torch invasion of the UVA campus by hundreds of Neo-Nazis and White supremacists chanting racist slurs including “Jews cannot replace us,” “Blood and Soil”, and spewing racial epithets. Unimpeded by police, they rallied for hours, assaulted a small contingent of peaceful counter-protesters before marching on a local church where a civil rights service and rally was taking place before being forcefully dispersed.

The day began with one group of nonviolent activist s led by Black Clergy and interracial/interdenominational clergy, who had come to the city to participate in peaceful social justice actions and condemn hatred. They were attacked by a mob of White supremacists, KKK members, and Neo-Nazis, made up of mostly armed white males who came prepared to “wipe out oppression”. After a morning and afternoon of violence, James Alex Fields drove his car into the back of racial justice demonstrators returning home and killed 32 year Heather Heyer and injured 19 others. In the end, a community was left in turmoil, lives were lost, people were critically injured, and instead of peace and love, hate and bigotry rang in the air for all the world to see, because the President of the United States, having inspired this atmosphere through his words and misdeeds, ignored what happened.

The Civil Rights Coalition on Policing Reform (“Coalition”) was created in the aftermath of the killing by law enforcement of Michael Brown Jr. in Ferguson, MO in August 2014. The coalition condemns the failure of the White House to profoundly denounce the presence and actions of these hate groups in Charlottesville, VA yesterday. Donald Trump’s speech late in the day was a complete abdication of his leadership role as President to denounce organized and violent bigots hate mongers. Instead, he said, “ We condemn in the strongest possible terms this egregious display of hatred, bigotry, and violence. On many sides.” These vague and insidious words are far from an honest and full condemnation of the bigotry and hatred of these white supremacist groups.

The Coalition is also disappointed by the slow and weak response from the Department of Justice (DOJ) to come to the aid of the city of Charlottesville and the peaceful social justice activists. There were clear and visible images via multiple media outlets showing hateful words, spitting, hitting, and other violent acts of terror by these White supremacist groups. The lack of a timely response to these images from the Attorney General of the United States is oppressive and encouraged the continued violence by these domestic terrorists. Made late Saturday night, the statement from DOJ “to look into possible hate crimes” and to open a federal civil rights investigation into “the deadly car attack” are is limited, slow, and doesn’t encompass all of the crimes that happened yesterday. Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ statement : was “The violence and deaths in Charlottesville strike at the heart of American law and justice. When such actions arise from racial bigotry and hatred, they betray our core values and cannot be tolerated.” This is degrading to the office of Attorney General as he states “…such actions arise from ….”, while refusing to poignantly and emphatically state that these deeds were acts of terrorism done by bigots and White supremacists whose primary purpose for gathering in Charlottesville was to be violent.

We must not forget the reasons why Black Clergy and many social justice activists made the pilgrimage to Charlottesville, VA. Vice-Mayor Wes Bellamy took on a noble task of eliminating the hurtful and harmful history that the remembrance of the Confederacy brought to the city. He welcomed vivacious dialogue with his city and was met by hateful bigotry and violence by White supremacists, KKK members, and Neo-Nazis. The Black Clergy and social justice activists who went to Charlottesville joined the many people of this nation, of this world, who denounce and resist hatred everyday. They are working to create a world that is inclusive and respectful of all lives. We embrace the words of Heather Heyer’s mother, Susan Bro,
“..I want her death to be a rallying cry for justice and equality and fairness and compassion.”

The Civil Rights Coalition on Policing Reform will remain active in its charge to create a better law enforcement system in this country and at the same time join brave social justice activists in our quest for “igniting change” in the world.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A broad coalition of environmental, public health and public interest groups, including prominent African American and Latino organizations, issued the following joint statement in response to this past weekend’s white nationalist gathering and violence in Charlottesville, Virginia:

“Our nation witnessed tragic, despicable and completely unnecessary violence in Charlottesville this past weekend. Driven by hatred and racism, these white nationalist and neo nazis groups and their actions do not represent the values upon which this country was founded, nor the values of the vast majority of Americans. We also remember the life of Heather Heyer and commit to continuing the struggle she died for.”

“The behavior of white nationalists is neither acceptable nor normal and we will continue to stand in solidarity against such hatred and in defense of the rights and safety of communities across the country like Charlottesville.  We will not tolerate any form of hatred or discrimination and will align ourselves with communities of color and creeds that are the target of ongoing bigotry.”

“We call on our political leaders to condemn these acts not just today, but every time they happen. President Trump and all political leaders, no matter their party affiliation, have an obligation to stand up against such hate groups immediately and unequivocally. Their voices and words — and lack thereof — matter.”

The tragic events in Charlottesville fall on our shoulders as a nation. No one who stands for justice, equality, and human dignity can stay silent any longer. We will stand unified against the white nationalist movement that everyday threatens America’s people and ideals, including the life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all. We will ultimately prevail by countering this hate with love.

# # #

HIP HOP CAUCUS PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 5, 2017
MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

Washington, D.C. – Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the below statement in response to the Trump Administration’s decision to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program:

“We the people will not stand for this Administration’s continued blatant disregard for our most vulnerable communities, cruel actions that will tear apart thousands of families, and fanning of the flames of hate and bigotry. The decision to end DACA today is so cruel, even this Administration decided to wait a few days until after a natural disaster devastated millions of our brothers and sisters on the Gulf Coast to announce it. Ending DACA will certainly be a man-made disaster, one that will have drastic negative implications on America’s families, economy, and moral fabric for years to come. This decision also comes on the heels of Charlottesville, where the whole world saw America’s ugliest side. We will continue to relentlessly counter this hate and bigotry supported by this Administration with love. All power to the people.”

###

About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting under-served and vulnerable communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org.

Hurricane Katrina 12th Anniversary – March & Second Line

IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 16, 2017

MEDIA CONTACT
Yamila Pino, yamila@prosperolatino.com, (202) 440-1432
Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A broad coalition of environmental, public health and public interest groups, including prominent African American and Latino organizations, issued the following joint statement in response to this past weekend’s white nationalist gathering and violence in Charlottesville, Virginia and President Trump’s inexplicable reversal as to who’s to blame for the violence:

“Our nation witnessed tragic, despicable and completely unnecessary violence in Charlottesville this past weekend. Driven by hatred and racism, these white nationalist and neo-nazi groups and their actions do not represent our values, nor the values of the vast majority of Americans. We also remember the life of Heather Heyer and commit to continuing the struggle she died for.

The behavior of white nationalists is neither acceptable nor normal and we will continue to stand in solidarity against such hatred and in defense of the rights and safety of communities across the country like Charlottesville. We will not tolerate any form of hatred or discrimination and will align ourselves with communities of color and creeds that are the target of ongoing bigotry.

We call on our political leaders to condemn these acts not just today, but every time they happen. President Trump and all political leaders, no matter their party affiliation, have an obligation to stand up against such hate groups immediately and unequivocally. Their voices and words — and lack thereof — matter.

The tragic events in Charlottesville fall on our shoulders as a nation. No one who stands for justice, equality, and human dignity can stay silent any longer. We will stand unified against the white nationalist movement that everyday threatens America’s people and ideals, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all. We will ultimately prevail by countering this hate with love.”

17 for Peace and Justice
350.org
African American Nature and Parks Experience
Alaska Wilderness League
Alliance for Climate Education (ACE)
Audubon Naturalist Society
Austin 2030 District
Azul
Be The Change -USA
Black permaculture network
Bold Alliance
California League of Conservation Voters
Care About Climate
Center for Biological Diversity
Center for Diversity & the Environment
Center for International Environmental Law
Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN)
Chispa
Citizens’ Climate Lobby
Clean Air Council
Climate Hawks Vote
Climate Nexus
Coalition Center for Popular Democracy
Defend Our Future
Defenders of Wildlife
Diverse Environmental Leaders Speakers Bureau
Dogwood Alliance
Dynamic Aptitude
Earthjustice
Earthworks
Endangered Species Coalition
Environmental Defense Fund
Environmental Leadership Program
EPCF – Climate Change Disruption
Food & Water Watch
Friends of Organ Mountains Desert Peaks
Friends of the Earth
Green 2.0
Green For All
GreenFaith
GreenLatinos
Greenpeace USA
Greensgrow
Hip Hop Caucus
Hispanic Access Foundation
Hispanic Federation
IDEASForUs
Imagine Power LLC
Institute for Sustainable Communities
Institute for Sutainable Urban Transformation
Interfaith Power & Light
International Mayan League
La Union Hace La Fuerza
Latino Victory Project
League of Conservation Voters
League of United Latin American Citizens
Living United for Change in Arizona (LUCHA)
Maine Conservation Voters
Mi Familia Vota
Moms Clean Air Force
Mount Moriah FBH Church
Mt Eastern Joy, LLC
National Hispanic Medical Association
National Ocean Protection
National Parks Conservation Association
Natural Resources Defense Council
NCLR Action Fund
Network for Sustainable Financial Markets
NextGen America
Noble Renewables Group of the West
North American Students of Cooperation (NASCO)
Ocean Conservancy
Oceana
Our Climate
Outdoor Afro
Peoples Climate Movement
Physicians for Social Responsibility
Population Connection
Power Shift Network
Public Citizen
Rachel Carson Council
Rachel’s Network
Radiance Studios LLC
Rainforest Action Network
Roosevelt Institute
Rural Coalition
Sachamama
Save EPA
Sierra Club
Sierra Club Virginia Chapter
Sunrise
Sustainable Agricultural Education Association
Sustainable Practices
SustainUS
The Environmental Justice Center at Chestnut Hill United Church
The Evangelical Environmental Network
The Farmworker Association of Florida, Inc
The Joy Trip Project
The Praxis Project
The Trail Posse
The Wilderness Society
Toxics Action Center
Union of Concerned Scientists
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Virginia Interfaith Power & Light
Virginia League of Conservation Voters
Voces Verdes
Voices for Progress
Voto Latino
Waterkeeper Alliance
WE ACT for Environmental Justice
###

 

PARA DISTRIBUCIÓN INMEDIATA
August 16, 2017

CONTACTO PARA LOS MEDIOS
Yamila Pino, (202) 440-1432 / (202) 660-1433
Grupos ambientalistas y de interés público condenan la violencia racista y la intolerancia en Charlottesville, Virginia

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Una amplia coalición de grupos ambientalistas, de salud pública e interés público, que también incluyen reconocidas organizaciones afroamericanas y latinas, emitieron las siguientes declaraciones en respuesta a la manifestación y violencia de nacionalistas blancos el fin de semana pasado en Charlottesville, Virginia, y el inexplicable revés del President Trump sobre los culpables de los sucesos:

“Nuestra nación ha sido testigo de una violencia trágica, despiadada y completamente innecesaria este pasado fin de semana en Charlottesville. Impulsados por el odio y el racismo, estos grupos de nacionalistas blancos y neo-nazis, al igual que sus acciones, no representan nuestros valores. Tampoco representan los valores de la mayoría de los estadounidenses. También recordamos la vida de Heather Heyer y nos comprometemos a continuar la lucha que le costó la vida.

El comportamiento de nacionalistas blancos no es aceptable. Por tal razón, continuaremos expresando nuestra solidaridad en contra de dicho odio y defendiendo los derechos y bienestar de comunidades como Charlottesville a lo largo del país. No toleraremos ninguna expresión de odio o discriminación y nos unimos a las comunidades de color y de diversos credos que son víctimas de la intolerancia. Buy Professional Cialis

Hacemos un llamado a nuestros líderes políticos para que repudien estos actos no sólo en estos momentos sino cada vez que ocurran. El Presidente Trump y todos los funcionarios electos— independientemente de su afiliación política— tienen la obligación de no quedarse callados ante estos grupos de odio inmediata e inequívocamente. Sus voces y palabras— al igual que la ausencia de ellas— importan.

Los trágicos eventos de Charlottesville pesan sobre la nación entera. Todo el que luche por la justicia, igualdad y dignidad del ser humano tiene el deber de levantar su voz. Nos uniremos en contra de lo que representa el movimiento supremacista blanco que día a día es una amenaza al pueblo estadounidense y sus ideales como el derecho a la dignidad, libertad y búsqueda de la felicidad. Al final saldremos victoriosos al hacerle frente a este odio con amor”.

 

17 for Peace and Justice
350.org
African American Nature and Parks Experience
Alaska Wilderness League
Alliance for Climate Education (ACE)
Audubon Naturalist Society
Austin 2030 District
Azul
Be The Change -USA
Black permaculture network
Bold Alliance
California League of Conservation Voters
Care About Climate
Center for Biological Diversity
Center for Diversity & the Environment
Center for International Environmental Law
Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN)
Chispa
Citizens’ Climate Lobby
Clean Air Council
Climate Hawks Vote
Climate Nexus
Coalition Center for Popular Democracy
Defend Our Future
Defenders of Wildlife
Diverse Environmental Leaders Speakers Bureau
Dogwood Alliance
Dynamic Aptitude
Earthjustice
Earthworks
Endangered Species Coalition
Environmental Defense Fund
Environmental Leadership Program
EPCF – Climate Change Disruption
Food & Water Watch
Friends of Organ Mountains Desert Peaks
Friends of the Earth
Green 2.0
Green For All
GreenFaith
GreenLatinos
Greenpeace USA
Greensgrow
Hip Hop Caucus
Hispanic Access Foundation
Hispanic Federation
IDEASForUs
Imagine Power LLC
Institute for Sustainable Communities
Institute for Sutainable Urban Transformation
Interfaith Power & Light
International Mayan League
La Union Hace La Fuerza
Latino Victory Project
League of Conservation Voters
League of United Latin American Citizens
Living United for Change in Arizona (LUCHA)
Maine Conservation Voters
Mi Familia Vota
Moms Clean Air Force
Mount Moriah FBH Church
Mt Eastern Joy, LLC
National Hispanic Medical Association
National Ocean Protection
National Parks Conservation Association
Natural Resources Defense Council
NCLR Action Fund
Network for Sustainable Financial Markets
NextGen America
Noble Renewables Group of the West
North American Students of Cooperation (NASCO)
Ocean Conservancy
Oceana
Our Climate
Outdoor Afro
Peoples Climate Movement
Physicians for Social Responsibility
Population Connection
Power Shift Network
Public Citizen
Rachel Carson Council
Rachel’s Network
Radiance Studios LLC
Rainforest Action Network
Roosevelt Institute
Rural Coalition
Sachamama
Save EPA
Sierra Club
Sierra Club Virginia Chapter
Sunrise
Sustainable Agricultural Education Association
Sustainable Practices
SustainUS
The Environmental Justice Center at Chestnut Hill United Church
The Evangelical Environmental Network
The Farmworker Association of Florida, Inc
The Joy Trip Project
The Praxis Project
The Trail Posse
The Wilderness Society
Toxics Action Center
Union of Concerned Scientists
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Virginia Interfaith Power & Light
Virginia League of Conservation Voters
Voces Verdes
Voices for Progress
Voto Latino
Waterkeeper Alliance
WE ACT for Environmental Justice

###

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Hosted by Wild Wayne & Sunni Patterson

Tuesday, August 29, 2017
10:00 AM – Lower Ninth Ward

Free to the Public

March is from Jourdan Avenue and Galvez Street, to Hunter Field

#BiggestSecondLineonaTuesday

For more information, call 504-342-6977.

About: Hip Hop Caucus, People’s Climate Music and Nuthin’ But Fire Records will be holding the 12th annual Katrina March and Second Line for the 12-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. The event is set to have radio personality Wild Wayne of Q93 and poet Sunni Patterson as hosts. The Katrina March and Second Line is scheduled to start in the morning in the Lower 9th Ward, where the levees broke in the storm, and end at Hunter’s Field, where a rally will be held with speakers and performers. More information coming soon.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:August 13, 2017

PRESS CONTACT: Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org202-870-8476

Yesterday, this country’s leadership failed its citizens and allowed White supremacists, KKK, and Neo-Nazi infiltrators to be violent, vicious, and murderous in the city of Charlottesville, VA. Friday night the nation had been alarmed by the lighted torch invasion of the UVA campus by hundreds of Neo-Nazis and White supremacists chanting racist slurs including “Jews cannot replace us,” “Blood and Soil”, and spewing racial epithets. Unimpeded by police, they rallied for hours, assaulted a small contingent of peaceful counter-protesters before marching on a local church where a civil rights service and rally was taking place before being forcefully dispersed.

The day began with one group of nonviolent activist s led by Black Clergy and interracial/interdenominational clergy, who had come to the city to participate in peaceful social justice actions and condemn hatred. They were attacked by a mob of White supremacists, KKK members, and Neo-Nazis, made up of mostly armed white males who came prepared to “wipe out oppression”. After a morning and afternoon of violence, James Alex Fields drove his car into the back of racial justice demonstrators returning home and killed 32 year Heather Heyer and injured 19 others. In the end, a community was left in turmoil, lives were lost, people were critically injured, and instead of peace and love, hate and bigotry rang in the air for all the world to see, because the President of the United States, having inspired this atmosphere through his words and misdeeds, ignored what happened.

The Civil Rights Coalition on Policing Reform (“Coalition”) was created in the aftermath of the killing by law enforcement of Michael Brown Jr. in Ferguson, MO in August 2014. The coalition condemns the failure of the White House to profoundly denounce the presence and actions of these hate groups in Charlottesville, VA yesterday. Donald Trump’s speech late in the day was a complete abdication of his leadership role as President to denounce organized and violent bigots hate mongers. Instead, he said, “ We condemn in the strongest possible terms this egregious display of hatred, bigotry, and violence. On many sides.” These vague and insidious words are far from an honest and full condemnation of the bigotry and hatred of these white supremacist groups.

The Coalition is also disappointed by the slow and weak response from the Department of Justice (DOJ) to come to the aid of the city of Charlottesville and the peaceful social justice activists. There were clear and visible images via multiple media outlets showing hateful words, spitting, hitting, and other violent acts of terror by these White supremacist groups. The lack of a timely response to these images from the Attorney General of the United States is oppressive and encouraged the continued violence by these domestic terrorists. Made late Saturday night, the statement from DOJ “to look into possible hate crimes” and to open a federal civil rights investigation into “the deadly car attack” are is limited, slow, and doesn’t encompass all of the crimes that happened yesterday. Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ statement : was “The violence and deaths in Charlottesville strike at the heart of American law and justice. When such actions arise from racial bigotry and hatred, they betray our core values and cannot be tolerated.” This is degrading to the office of Attorney General as he states “…such actions arise from ….”, while refusing to poignantly and emphatically state that these deeds were acts of terrorism done by bigots and White supremacists whose primary purpose for gathering in Charlottesville was to be violent.

We must not forget the reasons why Black Clergy and many social justice activists made the pilgrimage to Charlottesville, VA. Vice-Mayor Wes Bellamy took on a noble task of eliminating the hurtful and harmful history that the remembrance of the Confederacy brought to the city. He welcomed vivacious dialogue with his city and was met by hateful bigotry and violence by White supremacists, KKK members, and Neo-Nazis. The Black Clergy and social justice activists who went to Charlottesville joined the many people of this nation, of this world, who denounce and resist hatred everyday. They are working to create a world that is inclusive and respectful of all lives. We embrace the words of Heather Heyer’s mother, Susan Bro,
“..I want her death to be a rallying cry for justice and equality and fairness and compassion.”

The Civil Rights Coalition on Policing Reform will remain active in its charge to create a better law enforcement system in this country and at the same time join brave social justice activists in our quest for “igniting change” in the world.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A broad coalition of environmental, public health and public interest groups, including prominent African American and Latino organizations, issued the following joint statement in response to this past weekend’s white nationalist gathering and violence in Charlottesville, Virginia:

“Our nation witnessed tragic, despicable and completely unnecessary violence in Charlottesville this past weekend. Driven by hatred and racism, these white nationalist and neo nazis groups and their actions do not represent the values upon which this country was founded, nor the values of the vast majority of Americans. We also remember the life of Heather Heyer and commit to continuing the struggle she died for.”

“The behavior of white nationalists is neither acceptable nor normal and we will continue to stand in solidarity against such hatred and in defense of the rights and safety of communities across the country like Charlottesville.  We will not tolerate any form of hatred or discrimination and will align ourselves with communities of color and creeds that are the target of ongoing bigotry.”

“We call on our political leaders to condemn these acts not just today, but every time they happen. President Trump and all political leaders, no matter their party affiliation, have an obligation to stand up against such hate groups immediately and unequivocally. Their voices and words — and lack thereof — matter.”

The tragic events in Charlottesville fall on our shoulders as a nation. No one who stands for justice, equality, and human dignity can stay silent any longer. We will stand unified against the white nationalist movement that everyday threatens America’s people and ideals, including the life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all. We will ultimately prevail by countering this hate with love.

# # #

HIP HOP CAUCUS PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 5, 2017
MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

Washington, D.C. – Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President & CEO of Hip Hop Caucus, today released the below statement in response to the Trump Administration’s decision to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program:

“We the people will not stand for this Administration’s continued blatant disregard for our most vulnerable communities, cruel actions that will tear apart thousands of families, and fanning of the flames of hate and bigotry. The decision to end DACA today is so cruel, even this Administration decided to wait a few days until after a natural disaster devastated millions of our brothers and sisters on the Gulf Coast to announce it. Ending DACA will certainly be a man-made disaster, one that will have drastic negative implications on America’s families, economy, and moral fabric for years to come. This decision also comes on the heels of Charlottesville, where the whole world saw America’s ugliest side. We will continue to relentlessly counter this hate and bigotry supported by this Administration with love. All power to the people.”

###

About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting under-served and vulnerable communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org.

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Hip Hop Family and Friends,

Today is the 12th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. We remember those who lost their lives during the storm and recognize the resiliency of our communities in the Gulf Region. This anniversary is also a moment of solidarity, as millions of our fellow brothers and sisters are currently being impacted by Hurricane Harvey.

That is why Hip Hop Caucus is asking you to help.

 

Our most vulnerable communities – low-income, seniors, disabled, and communities of color – are being hardest hit. Recovery from this this unprecedented storm is going to take an unprecedented amount of support from all of us.

Here is how you can help now:

 

 

GENERALGlobalGiving is a large crowdfunding community with the goal of raising $2 million for its Harvey fund, with a focused on immediate needs and longer-term relief. CLICK HERE TO DONATE

 

FOODHouston Food Bank is providing immediate food distribution to families most in need. CLICK HERE TO DONATE

 

SHELTERCoalition for the Homeless of Houston/Harris County coordinates the city’s response to homelessness and has been providing updated information on shelters for people displaced by the storm. CLICK HERE TO DONATE

 

DISABILITIES: Portlight Strategies provides inclusive disaster relief and has a hotline specifically for the disabled impacted by Harvey (1-800-626-4959). CLICK HERE TO DONATE

 

KIDS/SENIORSDonate to the Texas Diaper Bank, an organization working to meet the basic needs of vulnerable babies, children with disabilities, and seniors. CLICK HERE TO DONATE

 

ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE:

For more ideas on where to donate, please visit Charity Navigator’s Hurricane Harvey webpage.

We need to help our brothers and sisters in the Gulf get through this historic event, just as the City of Houston did by taking in over 100,000 people impacted by Hurricane Katrina 12 years ago. In that same spirit, let us act today for those impacted by Hurricane Harvey.

Thank you for your support.

 

For future generations,
Rev Yearwood
President & CEO
Hip Hop Caucus

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HIP HOP CAUCUS PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 7, 2017
MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org202-506-5882

Washington, D.C. – Mustafa Santiago Ali, Senior Vice President for Climate, Environmental Justice, & Community Revitalization at Hip Hop Caucus, today released the statement below about the impacts severe storms have on our most vulnerable communities, and the lack of prioritization and response they receive from this Administration, including recent reports that Administrator Scott Pruitt is relocating the offices of Environmental Justice and National Environmental Policy Act Compliance out of the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These offices were formed out of a set of recommendations from stakeholders over the years under both Republican and Democratic Administrations. They provide critical expertise, protection of public health, and ensure that input and needs of all communities are fully considered by the agency, including ahead of, during, and following disasters.

“Moving these offices is very alarming, especially in the immediate aftermath of Harvey and looking ahead at Irma. This is another example of how this Administration is dissecting and dismantling the agency with a scalpel to favor industry polluters instead of protecting the health and prosperity of the American people. These actions politicize and weaken these offices, and continue to show a lack of connection to the voices and input from our most vulnerable communities by this Administration. This is at a time when the current leadership should be moving forward on the expansion of these offices to address the vastly disproportionate environmental impacts happening across the country to our most vulnerable communities – including communities of color, low income communities, and indigenous populations.”

“America’s most vulnerable communities are hardest hit and often undervalued, underestimated and marginalized by decision makers following storms like Harvey. For decades communities like Port Arthur and the Manchester neighborhood in Houston have been breathing in heavy toxic air that literally takes their breath away. Following Harvey, they now face even stronger first-hand exposure to harmful and unknown chemicals in their air, water, and land. First responders to the disaster areas are also exposed to these harmful toxins as they put their lives on the line to save lives and property. Vulnerable communities are also not typically prioritized in rebuilding efforts. They are often relocated to the most undesirable areas with the greatest risk to future public health threats and face many disproportionate hurdles as they attempt to recover financially.”

“Unfortunately, thus far the Trump Administration has not shown that they care about our most vulnerable communities. They have also shown an unwillingness to consider the impacts of an increasingly changing climate into their planning, policies, and priority setting for the American people. The current Administration has proposed drastic budget cuts that are not connected to the reality and dangers that vulnerable communities face, or what science is telling us. Their proposed cuts to NOAA, FEMA, EPA, and HUD in particular will have a direct correlation to the preparedness, response, and recovery within these communities hardest hit by Harvey and other severe storms of increasing magnitude, like Hurricane Irma approaching the U.S. mainland.”

“Vulnerable communities are forced into even more desperate situations, where their existing challenges are significantly compounded by these stronger storms and lack of foresight, empathy, and action by this Administration. This is literally putting people’s lives in jeopardy. This is the time we need to recognize the power, solutions, and opportunities to better prepare, respond, and rebuild for all. We need to work together to take our most vulnerable communities from surviving to thriving.”

To support frontline communities recovering from Harvey, please visit #AJustHarveyRecovery and Hip Hop Caucus’ resource page here.

For more, please be sure to check out Mustafa’s latest appearance on AM Joy, video interview with Robert Reich, and interview on the Politically Re-Active podcast with Kamau Bell and Hari Kondabolu. You can also keep up with him on Twitter (@EJinAction).

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About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative network, HHC addresses core issues impacting under-served and vulnerable communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org. Follow HHC online @HipHopCaucus on all social media platforms.

About Mustafa Santiago Ali: Mustafa Santiago Ali is a renowned national speaker, policy maker, community liaison, trainer, and facilitator. Mr. Ali specializes in social and environmental justice issues and is focused on a utilizing a holistic approach to revitalizing vulnerable communities. He joined the Hip Hop Caucus after working 24 years at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where he most recently served as Senior Advisor for Environmental Justice and Community Revitalization. Throughout his career he has worked with over 500 domestic and international communities to improve people’s lives by addressing environmental, health, and economic justice issues.

This article was originally published on Hip Hop Caucus’ Medium page (here).

Hundreds of people gathered for our #RespectMyVote Rally in front of the White House the morning of July 19th to protest Trump’s “Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity. The conversation also grew online, as #RespectMyVote rocketed to the #3 trending topic in America on Twitter, and stayed trending all day long. In addition, over a half million people signed petitions pushing back on Trump’s plan to suppress voters, and those petitions were at the rally in front of the White House for delivery.

 

The commission, more appropriately known as Trump’s “Voter Suppression Commission”, is nothing more than a sham — as noted by the Washington Post — created in response to the blatant false claim of voter fraud in America.

Ever since losing the popular vote by almost three million votes in the 2016 election versus Hilary Clinton, President Trump has been obsessed with proving that there was wide-spread voter fraud. Earlier this year he claimed, without one shred of evidence, that 3–5 million Americans voted illegally during the election.

Now he is out to prove this false claim and is using the power of the Presidency (and your tax money) to set up a which-hunt team full of voter-suppressor all-stars. Each of member of the commission has a long track record of suppressing the vote and blatant attacks on the Voter Rights Act.

Instead of focusing on solutions to ensure more people are able to vote, such as modernizing voter registration, this commission is going to embark on a which-hunt in order to prove a false claim and set up the justification for actions that will make it harder for Americans to vote. They have long decided that those who are the most vulnerable in our country — young people, seniors, people of color — need to have more between them and the ballot box.

You can help push back and demand that voting is made easier. It’s our American right! Click here to say #RespectMyVote!

Voting is the fundamental right of our democracy. It is a cherished right that our soldiers die for. The United States should be a beacon for democracy throughout the world and lead by example. This new commission completely goes in the the opposite direction.

However, we have seen all of this before. And just as Dr. King and so many others did throughout this country’s history, we are going to fight with everything we have to protect our voting rights. We will always be there to protect voting for all.

We had a very special guest join us for the rally — No Malice, from the legendary hip-hop duo Clipse. No Malice also wrote an article about why he was there. Check out “No Malice Writes Letter ‘Why I’m Rallying at the White House’”.

CLICK HERE TO TAKE ACTION!

HIP HOP CAUCUS PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 3, 2017
MEDIA CONTACT – Mark Antoniewicz, mark@hiphopcaucus.org, 202-506-5882

New Orleans Community, Hip Hop Artists, and Activists Commemorate 12th Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, Call for a Just Harvey Recovery for All

New Orleans, LA – Today the Hip Hop Caucus, New Orleans Katrina Commemoration Foundation, Nuthin’ But Fire Records, Q93, People’s Climate Music, and many other community partners hosted the 12th Annual Hurricane Katrina March and Second Line.

The day’s events began with a healing ceremony next to the breached levee in the Lower Ninth Ward, followed by a march through the streets which fed into a second line. The second line ended with a rally at Hunter’s Field hosted by Wild Wayne of Q93 and renowned New Orleans’ poet Sunni Patterson. The rally featured remarks and performances by a variety of prominent community and cultural leaders, including Mia X, Sess 4-5, Roi Anthony, Hustlaz, Lady Red, Yung Pro, Shorty, Wildboy Woody, and DJ7.

This event serves as the largest annual community based commemoration of the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and shows first-hand the consequences of climate disasters on our communities. Each year this event honors the resiliency of the people, remembers the lives lost, and encourages further support for the communities most devastated by Hurricane Katrina. This year organizers also called for a just and equitable recovery from Hurricane Harvey which caused widespread flooding in southeast Texas and southwest Louisiana this past week.

“The people of New Orleans will not forget those who were lost 12 years ago and it is incredibly powerful to march in the same streets where your relatives died,” said Rev Yearwood, President & CEO, Hip Hop Caucus. “This anniversary is also a moment of solidarity, as millions are currently being impacted by Hurricane Harvey in Texas and Louisiana. Let us help our brothers and sisters in the Gulf get through this historic event, just as the City of Houston did by taking in over 100,000 people impacted by Hurricane Katrina 12 years ago. In that same spirit, we extend our hands and stand for a just recovery as we begin to heal and rebuild.”

Participants throughout the day also highlighted the ongoing struggle of families to live and thrive in post-Katrina New Orleans. Participants also called on leaders to do more to better prepare our most vulnerable communities to withstand future natural disasters by investing in smarter infrastructure and addressing climate change.

“We will never forget Katrina and what it did to our people,” said Sess 4-5, event organizer, leader of Hip Hop Caucus New Orleans, and recording artist and community activist. “We also want to shine a light on the fact that many people impacted by the storm are still not getting the help they deserve, even 12 years after it hit. We will keep on marching every year to remember those lost, bring our community closer together, and hold our elected leaders accountable so that they can right the wrongs of the past and create a better future for all.”

Organizers asked participants, supporters, and leaders to:

  • Remember: by calling on the state of Louisiana to make August 29 a holiday commemorating the lives lost in Katrina.
  • Right the wrongs: by calling for racial and economic justice so that in the face of disaster, the poor and people of color are not left without the ability to rebuild communities with good schools, good jobs, and good public health and safety.  
  • Say never again: by calling for action on climate change from our world’s leaders, otherwise we will only see more of these extreme weather events like Hurricane Katrina and Harvey around the world.
  • Call for a just and equitable Harvey recovery and rebuild for all: The most vulnerable communities – including low-income and communities of color – are being hardest hit. Help support by visiting anothergulf.com/a-just-harvey-recovery.

For more options on how to support Harvey recovery efforts, please visit hiphopcaucus.org/hurricane-harvey.  

About Hip Hop Caucus: Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting underserved communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders. Learn more at HipHopCaucus.org.  

About New Orleans Katrina Commemoration Foundation: New Orleans Katrina Commemoration Foundation annually organizes the largest community-led remembrance event on the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, August 29th.

About the People’s Climate Music: People’s Climate Music is helping to expand the climate movement by organizing diverse and influential artists to create music and culture that inspires action to solve the biggest crisis humanity has ever faced – climate change. More at PeoplesClimateMusic.com.

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