By Michelle Kramer-Fitzgerald
On Saturday, October 26, hip hop and social justice advocates convene for the Second Annual Hip Hop Cultural Summit, hosted by the Delaware Art Museum, AllHipHop, and Guerrilla Republik. The free family-friendly event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and registration is required to attend.
“This Summit is an example how the Delaware Art Museum is committed to arts and culture, especially within the community we reflect,” says Iz Balleto, the Museum’s Community Engagement Specialist.
“This event is not just entertainment,” he continued. “It’s an opportunity for empowerment and a chance to learn what hip hop culture stands for. Hip hop began with a message of peace and advocacy for community needs through its elements, and it has always belonged to the people.”
Last year’s inaugural summit attracted more than 1,000 attendees. This year’s event promises to be even bigger, increasing its focus on hip hop, civic engagement, and activism. It will incorporate hip hop battles in MCing, graffiti, and breakdancing; a photography exhibit highlighting hip hop’s rich history by T. Eric Monroe; an exhibit celebrating the invention of the record player from the Victrola Museum; and a local artists’ showcase on the art of Activism and Social Justice.
Most exciting of all is that Flavor Flav — legendary co-founder of groundbreaking rap group Public Enemy — is confirmed as the headliner. Chuck Creekmur, Co-Founder of AllHipHop, will facilitate a Q&A with Flav.
Additional speakers include Hakim Green (co-founder of 24 Hours of Peace) sharing insights on Hip Hop’s influence on education and activism; Pam Africa (social justice advocate) speaking on the intersection of hip hop and activism; and Dr. Yasser Arafat Payne (University of Delaware scholar) exploring the academic and societal impacts of hip hop culture.
“I’m incredibly excited about this year and the amazing lineup of guests we have in store,” says AllHipHop founder, Grouchy Greg Watkins. “From legends like Flavor Flav to thought leaders like Hakim Green, this event will truly showcase the power of hip hop in driving social change. I’m looking forward to seeing the community come together to experience the art, the discussions, and the battles. It’s going to be an inspiring and unforgettable day for everyone.”
Watkins, a longtime fan of Public Enemy since Yo! Bum Rush The Show, has known Flavor Flav for years. He ran into Flav in L.A. in September 2023 then re-connected with him over Grammy weekend this past February, where Watkins asked if he’d be interested in being part of the Hip Hop Summit.
“To have Flav participating is such an honor,” he says. “He’s a dynamic individual, with an incredible story of activism, personal triumphs and redemption.”
— The Hip Hop Summit on Saturday, Oct. 26 is free to attemd, but registration is required. Register at DelArt.org.
— Michelle Kramer-Fitzgerald is the Director of Marketing & Events for the Delaware Symphony Orchestra, as well as the manager of the blog Delaware Arts Info, and the Board Chair of City Theater Company. She is a self-described “cheerleader” for the arts and animal rescue, a die-hard Penn Stater and a doting dog mom. A big fan of The Beatles, Bon Jovi, strong java and red blends, she’s pretty sure that in a parallel universe, she’s a writer for Rolling Stone. She, hubby Scott, and furbaby Eli are proud residents of the City of Wilmington.