CWU Presentation on "RAP, RACE, RAGE, AND REALITY"

October 17, 2006

Ellensburg, Wash. - In conjunction with Central Washington University's yearlong "First Amendment Festival," two hip-hop pioneers will speak at CWU on Thursday, Oct. 19.

The free, public presentation by Chuck D, founder of the group "Public Enemy," and MC Lyte, widely regarded as the first female rapper, is titled "Rap, Race, Rage, and Reality." It's scheduled for 7 p.m. in the Student Union Ballroom.

Chuck D is an outspoken proponent of the political power of hip-hop. He co-wrote the book "Fight the Power: Rap, Race and Reality," served as a contributor to several episodes of the PBS documentary series "The Blues" and was honored for his work with the "Rock the Vote" campaign.

MC Lyte, who, through her music, boldly criticizes sexism and misogyny in hip-hop, was the first rap artist to perform in New York's Carnegie Hall and the first female rapper to receive a gold single. She has also dedicated time to become active in several social projects and organizations, including anti-violence campaigns, "Rock the Vote" and AIDS benefits.

Their joint CWU lecture is sponsored by the Black Student Union, Campus Activities, Center for Student Empowerment and Diversity Education Center.

For more information, or for persons of disability to arrange for reasonable accommodation, call (509) 963-1687, or (for the hearing impaired) TDD (509) 963-2143.

Contact: Djordje Popovic (509-963-1687/fax 509-963-3561/e-mail: popovicd@cwu.edu)