BEDFORD-STUYVESANT — Brooklyn’s annual hip-hop celebration returns to Bed-Stuy for its 16th year this week, with an emphasis on community voices and voter registration.
The Universal Hip-Hop Parade for Social Justice takes to the streets on Aug. 13 with the theme of “Be Seen, Be Heard, Vote!” according to event founder Kazembe Batts.
“It’s not a demonstration, it’s a celebration,” Batts said. “But it’s a celebration for a purpose.”
The yearly event is inspired by political leader Marcus Garvey, he added.
“We are celebrating his legacy but also acknowledging the current reality that hip-hop culture has global influence, not just the music, but the totality of the culture.”
Throughout the parade route, which stretches from Lafayette Avenue at Herbert Von King Park, down Marcus Garvey Boulevard and turning onto Fulton Street, groups will organize voter registration with a focus on young adults, Batts said.
Stops will include tents with graffiti artists, DJs, live performances and dance groups, and revelers can see classic cars parked along the way.
“There will be messages about everything from Black Lives Matter to affordable housing,” Batts added. “Expect to see a moving mixture of both activism and art.”
The Universal Hip-Hop Parade for Social Justice will be held on Aug. 13 from 2:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., starting at Von King Park. For more details, visit the event’s Facebook page.
