About Hip Hop Education 4 Youth

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Michele Hairston (Hip Hop Educator & Historian ) Founded Hip Hop Education 4 Youth in 2001 . Her mission was birthed when she noticed the youth occupying time listening to  explicit lyrics and imitating the “gangsterism” behavior, and becoming more violent towards one another. At that point she knew it was time to make a difference. 

Ms. Hairston received her education in the area of the History of Hip Hop from different pioneers such as; Kool Herc, Krs-one, and Dj Red Alert and more who later became her mentors. She uses her knowledge to empower youth in the community and to inspire passion to learn about the History of Hip Hop Culture. 

Ms Hairston also noticed the youth loves Hip Hop but did not understand the Hip Hop movement. In 2002, she was encouraged to bring the education to Harrisburg School District in (Harrisburg, PA )so the children can experience the culture and get a better understanding of what Hip Hop is really about.  

She created a curriculum to teach what is called Hip Hop Education which incorporates History, Math, Social Studies, and Literacy. The program was successfully implanted in a variety of after school programs and class rooms. These programs would later merge with Entertainment and Arts for performance showcases and tournaments. 

Since 2001, HHE4Y had created a Break Dancing Crew, Graffiti Crew and Emcee Crew. Collectively with the founder “No N Word Movement” and “Hip Hop Against Violence Program” was implemented as another attempt to spread the education around and display positivity in the Hip Hop Culture.

 The students of the organization have traveled to various venues on the east coast to compete in Break Dancing competition which allowed them to showcase their talent in the presence of Hip Hop Pioneers and Scholars while displaying the organic roots of Hip Hop Culture. 

By 2008, The organization had successfully participated in Breakin 4 Peace, Hip Hop (bboy) Award Show, and Hip Hop against Violence in Philadelphia and Harrisburg Pa. as well as multiple workshops within the Harrisburg School District. 

Ms. Hairston is continuing to work on preserving the culture and educating the youth through Hip Hop Education. She continued to strive for positivity and unity within our community. Bridging the gap between generations through music, discussion and wisdom.