Bakari Kitwana Quotes

Activist

Bakari Kitwana

Bakari Kitwana is an American author, journalist, and activist known for his work on hip-hop culture and politics. He is the former executive editor of The Source magazine and has written several books, including “The Hip-Hop Generation: Young Blacks and the Crisis in African-American Culture” and “Why White Kids Love Hip Hop: Wankstas, Wiggers, Wannabes, and the New Reality of Race in America.” Kitwana is also a frequent commentator on issues of race, politics, and popular culture, and has been featured in numerous media outlets. He is a leading voice in the hip-hop community and continues to advocate for social and political change through his writing and activism.Read Less

I agree that a lot of mainstream corporate sold hip-hop is self-hating.

Author, December 27, 2023, Bakari Kitwana, Critique, Mainstream, 0

Bakari Kitwana

Activist

Bakari Kitwana Career Highlights

Kitwana began his career as a journalist, writing for publications such as The Source, Vibe, and The Village Voice. He quickly gained recognition for his insightful and thought-provoking articles on hip-hop culture and its impact on society.
In 1994, Kitwana co-founded the first hip-hop political organization, the National Hip-Hop Political Convention, which aimed to mobilize the hip-hop generation to engage in political activism and social change.
In 2002, Kitwana published his first book, “The Hip-Hop Generation: Young Blacks and the Crisis in African American Culture,” which became a bestseller and established him as a leading voice on issues affecting young people of color.
In 2005, Kitwana became the executive editor of The Source magazine, where he oversaw the publication’s coverage of politics, social issues, and hip-hop culture.
In 2008, Kitwana co-founded the Rap Sessions, a national town hall meeting series that brings together artists, activists, and scholars to discuss pressing issues facing the hip-hop generation.
In 2012, Kitwana published his second book, “Hip-Hop Activism in the Obama Era,” which explored the role of hip-hop in shaping political discourse and mobilizing young voters during Barack Obama’s presidency.

Key Contributions by Bakari Kitwana

Kitwana’s work has been instrumental in elevating the conversation around hip-hop culture and its impact on society. He has challenged stereotypes and misconceptions about hip-hop and its audience, and has shed light on the political and social issues affecting young people of color.
Through his writing, speaking engagements, and activism, Kitwana has inspired a generation of young people to use their voices and platforms to effect change in their communities.
Kitwana’s co-founding of the National Hip-Hop Political Convention and the Rap Sessions has provided important spaces for dialogue and action, bringing together diverse voices and perspectives to address pressing issues facing the hip-hop generation.

What Sets Bakari Kitwana Apart

Kitwana’s unique perspective as a journalist, activist, and political commentator has allowed him to bridge the gap between hip-hop culture and mainstream society. He has been able to effectively communicate the complexities and nuances of hip-hop to a wider audience, while also challenging the status quo and advocating for social justice.
Kitwana’s ability to connect with young people and inspire them to become agents of change sets him apart from other commentators and activists. He has a deep understanding of the issues facing the hip-hop generation and has been able to effectively engage and mobilize them through his work.

Takeaways

Bakari Kitwana’s career highlights and key contributions demonstrate his unwavering commitment to using hip-hop as a tool for social and political change. He has been a trailblazer in elevating the discourse around hip-hop culture and has inspired a generation of young people to use their voices and platforms for activism.
Kitwana’s work serves as a reminder of the power of hip-hop to bring people together, challenge societal norms, and effect change. He continues to be a leading voice in the conversation on race, youth empowerment, and social justice, and his contributions will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on future generations.

Other People