Diva Luv Da Kids...More Emcees Should Too!

(In Seattle @ Rainier Beach H.S....can ya spot me?)

A brotha sent this to me on my myspace and I agree with him. Do you?

A CHALLENGE TO ALL HIP HOP ARTISTS
By Sebastien “Dome” Elkouby

For better or for worse, youth idolize their favorite Hip Hop artists and hang on to their every word. These artists could potentially change the world with the power of their voice alone. After all, wasn’t Hip Hop born out of a need for expression in the face of oppression? Call me naïve but I believe that most artists truly do care about the influence they have over their fans.

However, I know that the “industry” often stands in the way of artists when they try to give back to the people. I’ve seen it happen first hand.

So, I’m issuing a challenge to all Hip Hop artists. IN 2008, GET INVOLVED IN MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR COMMUNITIES, FOR THE YOUTH, AND FOR BLACK PEOPLE. Use your money,influence, and any other resources you have access to in order to give back to the people. Don’t allow "industry" heads who don’t really care about you and your community, stop you from being in touch with what really matters.

There are many ways to give back. I run a Hip Hop empowerment program in Los Angeles and work with teens all across the city who want nothing more than honest words of support and encouragement from artists they look up to. Donating money to small community-based organizations that do incredible work but struggle to stay open due to limited funding is another way to make a difference. That 50 G’s you can spend on that chain could be used to change lives instead!

The world is a crazy place and doesn’t seem to be getting any better. There aren’t many leaders that large numbers of people are willing to stand behind like in the days of Martin and Malcolm. Artists, you have the ears of the people who need the most help: USE YOUR FAME AND INFLUENCE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE. YOU HAVE NOTHING TO LOSE AND THE LOVE AND RESPECT OF AN ENTIRE GENERATION TO GAIN.

IN 2008, HOW WILL YOU MAKE YOUR MARK?

Respect to David Banner, MC Lyte, Brother J, Mystic, Stacy Epps, and other Hip Hop artists who don’t front when it comes to giving back.
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Sebastien “Dome” Elkouby is the founder of the Urban Youth Empowerment Foundation, an organization based in Los Angeles which uses Hip Hop as a tool to reach at-risk youth. However, artists from all backgrounds (actors, singers, dancers, authors, etc…) are invited to offer their assistance. Visit the website at: www.thefoundationonline.net and contact him at info@thefoundationonline.net or 310-654-1681.

(In the Bronx @ PULSE H.S....im in the purple jeans)