Took place last night and I have to admit that it didn’t hit me until I was there, that I speaking on my first panel discussion that I was invited to. Then I didn’t learn until I was there who else were invited as panelists to speak and answer questions. People I’m familiar like Hip Hop Association’s Rolando Brown and DJ Laylo were present, then other people I’ve never met before such as Tru Life from Roc-A-Fella, B-Girl / Journalist / NYU Professor Miri Park and one of the G.A.M.E.’s founders Omowale Adewale (if in case that’s not his name, I’ll get it corrected).One of my immediate realizations at that moment was, I’m a crawling baby compared to these accomplished people who are definitely out there, seen various parts of the world and caused effects in different terrain. So I was definitely way more than honored to be a part of such of a panel. But I’ll definitely admit that I repped for Washington Heights and enjoyed that interaction that was in effect.First it began with actual workshops where Miri gave some of us a quick Breaking lesson, DJ Laylo showed some a few tips in scratching, Nile gave examples of how to MC and Mark (one of the organizers of the event) displayed a few points in Graf writing.Then was the panel discussion, which I was a part of. The topics varied from the materialism in Hip Hop, debating where the balance was being that there are so many teens with low self esteem for being a have not, which no one wants to be, especially the have-nots and those risking their livelihoods just to partake in a social fad which my cost your rent or your child’s food and well being. Then of course the aspect of sweat shops, child slavery and the industrial phenomenon on the back of Hip Hop’s wild-style spending at these malls and stores. If I can somehow get a transcript or audio of the actual discussion, I’ll post it up. Other questions included that how come people are asking for progressive and more variety in Rap music, yet it the jingle type Rap music that on the top of the Sound scans? With the international display of the commercial Rap music, why is it that when it reaches places like Cuba, Brazil, Ghana, Palestine, and our international family members figure they use it for revolutionary and socio-political expression, instead of mimicking the commercial rappers? And there were various other questions that came directly from the NYU students, such as who should hold accountability when it comes to Rap music and others that I couldn’t exactly remember at this moment. But it was certainly a good function with solid insight from some extremely insightful people.I could say that I look forward to doing that again and making some things happen soon in The Heights, our kids deserve that attention and help, while it’s in dire need as well.Peace…P.S. Pics of the event will be up as soon as I get them… 1