Democracy 2 pOintzero

Equality isn't just some abstract concept, it is one of life's few genuine entitlements -- it's something we all deserve. So why is it that those with the most influence and of the greatest means are racism’s top peddlers? I am speaking of many (but not most) of today's rappers. Doubtful are you? Just have a listen for yourself. Why would people promote crime, 'dead end-ism', and the abuse of women when they could instead talk about the happier and healthier lives they now enjoy? Think about it. For many, rap and gangsta rap offer an only escape from broken families, broken schools, the daily task of surviving instead of living. More than escapism though, rappers are idols of excess. Big everything -- big TVs, big cars, big jewelry. And you know what, they got everything by living the same life as those who look up to them.

You'll note that earlier I made sure to say that not all rap (or rappers) is bad. Some artists go out of thier way to give to local charities, get involved with communities and promote a better way of life. The sad thing is that if someone like you or me were to publicly praise them, they'd instantly lose street credibility. So, what to do? It's not rocket science, it's pragmatic. Meetings, private meetings, between community leaders and members of the rap community who genuinely hope for a better way of life for the less fortunate. Establish community programs that emphasize self-esteem, promote equality, and above all else inspire. Where there is celebrity, there will be enrollment, nuff said. The challenging part is whether a politician could resist the temptation of plastering his/her name all over the place in the next election cycle. The second that a disclosure such as that takes place, is the second that the bad guys would say the good guys are no longer 'street' or 'thug'. That by showing folks a better way of life, they've somehow turned thier backs. Am I saying that these programs would be soaked in cavity-inducing, rated-G sweetness? Of course not. But simply by getting kids to value themselves, by getting kids off the street, by offering kids role models which may not otherwise exist -- the cycle will be broken.

The 10 or 20%+ who go on to enjoy life will give back to the community. Whether it's in dollars, time or perhaps lending celebrity that they themselves achieve. Best of all, they'll raise thier kids to do the same. This, my friends, is how to promote equality and a better way of life. So people of influence, those in the rap industry and those in government, step up. What's at stake is far more than anyone's ego or album sales, what's at stake are lives. The ripple effect of higher living standards, lower crime, better schools, and half the population (women) being valued and part of this noble struggle offers all unlimited potential. Racism, Inc., built on hate and hopelessness, would close its doors forever. Here's to hope . . .