In Critical Times, Critical Speaks
Socially Conscious Hip Hop lives in South End
By Jonathan Tucker

On the third Sunday of each month, the Urban Youth Program of the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) brings together art and activism at its all-ages, hip-hop open mic. With almost four years under its belt, Critical Breakdown (CB) continues to draw large, diverse crowds with its socially conscious performance art. Spoken word, dance, song and rap all come together to unite a community dedicated to social change.

Walking into the Jorge Hernandez Cultural Center (now called the Center for Latino Arts), where CB “breaks it down,” so to speak, o­ne is overcome with a sense of community and consciousness. With free, o­n-site HIV testing and information tables from local non-profit organizations, CB is much more than just an open mic; it is a family that cares about the community’s well being. By using hip-hop to attract the average apathetic urban youth (along with the activist urban population), CB is able to educate kids o­n important socio-political issues that they would otherwise find interested in, as well as provide role models to whom kids can relate. Witnessing rappers denounce racism, sexism, homophobia, and drug use, all who attend CB are inspired to look at hip-hop from a different perspective and with newfound meaning and purpose.

As a birthplace for local artists, CB has seen The Foundation, III Kings, The Floorlords, and Reflect & Strengthen, just to name a few. City Councilors Chuck Turner and Felix Arroyo have also been known to break it down critically o­n occasion. The League of Pissed Off Voters is going to be at the next o­ne handing out free copies of the new book, How to Get Stupid White Men Out of Office, to those who know their hip-hop trivia (and those who don’t, but it’s more fun that way). DJ SunOne holds down the wheels of steel, mixing unique blends of old school, rap, and funk, hosted by Erica, Session, and Sy Fi. This is a family event, so alcohol, drugs, and curses are not welcome. Admission is free, but donations are greatly appreciated.

Other articles by Jonathan Tucker.

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