Feminism and Hip Hop Conference Schedule

In today’s increasingly mediated environment hip hop remains the most pronounced cultural identifier for young Americans regardless of gender, class or ethnicity. Alongside its various aesthetic contributions, the culture operates as a springboard for discourse surrounding the politics, desires, and activities of today’s youth and young adults. And while a substantial literature has emerged detailing the history and the current cultural domination of hip hop, there has also developed substantial writing and some research warning of the possible negative impact of hip hop culture on young African Americans, stemming from its focus and promotion of sex, drugs, crime, misogyny, consumerism and nihilism. It has been argued by commentators and casual observers that the imagery and lyrics of popular rap music and videos normalizes or even promotes the degradation of women, especially Black women. And while such opinions are expressed readily in newspapers, magazines and general conversation, there has existed little opportunity for extended discussion, research and debate to seriously explore such claims.

The Center for the Study of Race, Politics and Culture has decided to host this national conference on the topic of hip hop and feminism as an attempt to provide the needed space for debate and discussion about the impact of hip hop culture on the sexual, gender and racial understandings of young people around the world. This conference will provide a forum for scholars, students, artists, activists, community members, and members of the media interested in analyzing the relevance of feminist agendas to the hip hop generation. This event will also highlight the work of scholars, activists and artists across the country who are fighting for progressive representations of women in hip hop culture as they reshape feminist discourse and politics.

Confirmed participants include: Moya Bailey, Yvonne Bynoe, Hazel Carby, Rosa Clemente, Alison Duke, Melyssa Ford, Farah Jasmine Griffin, Tamika Guishard, Beverly Guy-Sheftall, Byron Hurt, Cheryl Keyes, Felicia Miyakawa, Jessica Care Moore, Joan Morgan, Marcyliena Morgan, Mark Anthony Neal, Kim Osorio, Imani Perry, Gwendolyn Pough, Rachel Raimist, Rokafella, Tricia Rose, and Akiba Solomon.