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Tag: Community Event

  • DaBaby, Jadakiss Headline Newark’s 24 Hrs. of Peace

    Newark, New Jersey, is gearing up for a major celebration of music, community, and peace. Mayor Ras J. Baraka has announced the return of the annual 24 Hrs. of Peace festival, a free event that uses Hip-Hop culture as a catalyst for unity and positive change. This year’s festival, running from September 5th to 6th, boasts an impressive lineup featuring some of the biggest names in music across generations.

    A Star-Studded Lineup for a Cause

    The festival, held at South 10th Street and Central Avenue in the city’s West Ward, will feature performances from artists like Allure, Kool G Rap, Jacquees, RL, Case, DaBaby, Jadakiss, Scarlip, Zeddy Will, 41, and NJ’s own DJ Taj, among others. This diverse roster promises a dynamic mix of R&B, Hip-Hop, and Jersey Club sounds, all contributing to the event’s core message.

    Mayor Baraka emphasized the festival’s commitment to nonviolence and peace, stating, “Non-violence and peace are critical elements of city life that can always be plumbed to deeper levels, every day, in every neighborhood.” He highlighted the event’s ability to merge Newark’s unique vibe with Hip-Hop’s powerful vibrations, creating a synergy for transformation and celebration.

    From Neighborhood Call to Major Tradition

    Launched 15 years ago by Mayor Baraka when he was a South Ward Council Member, the 24 Hrs. of Peace festival has grown significantly. What began as a local initiative to promote peace has evolved into a major annual tradition, drawing together families, neighbors, artists, business owners, and faith leaders. The event fosters community connection through music, food, and access to valuable resources.

    Over the years, the festival has attracted cultural heavyweights, including Queen Latifah, who hosted in 2022 and praised it as “Newark at its best, Jersey at its best.” Past lineups have featured stars like Fabolous, Faith Evans, and Mya, alongside Newark’s own Jersey Club pioneers. This year’s event continues that legacy of bringing top-tier talent to the community.

    More Than a Festival: A Peace Initiative

    The 24 Hrs. of Peace festival is an integral part of Newark’s broader Peace Week initiative, which aims to combat violence through community outreach and cultural engagement. The streets of Newark transform into vibrant hubs of food, fashion, art, and fun during this period. Mayor Baraka views crime and violence as public health issues, advocating for approaches that promote healing and positive social change.

    Co-founder and Hip-Hop icon Hakim Green echoed this philosophy, describing the festival as embodying “the true meaning of Hip-Hop: peace, love, unity, safety, and having fun.” The event serves as a powerful platform to teach younger generations the importance of peace, respect, and reconciliation, fostering a culture of harmony and mutual care.

    Are you excited about Newark’s 24 Hrs. of Peace festival? Which artist on the lineup are you most looking forward to seeing? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Southside Day Atlanta Celebrates Community & Culture

    Southside Day Atlanta returned for its second year, bigger and better than ever! Hosted by Atlanta native and media personality Yung Joc, the event brought together city leaders, artists, and residents at East Point City Hall to celebrate community, creativity, and the power of collective presence. More than just a block party, the day served as a homecoming, a resource fair, and a platform for giving back, all infused with Southern charm and positive vibes.

    A Day of Community Impact and Generosity

    The event, held on the lawn of East Point’s municipal headquarters, was a vibrant hub of activity. Attendees enjoyed a variety of offerings, including food trucks, local vendors, scholarship giveaways, and surprise guest appearances. Yung Joc, known for his charisma on ‘Love & Hip Hop’ and Streetz 94.5’s Morning Takeover, was instrumental in keeping the energy high, engaging the crowd with music, jokes, and heartfelt moments.

    This year’s Southside Day made a significant community impact. Thanks to a generous donation from Atlanta rapper Gunna, the event distributed 1,000 tablets to local families and students, providing essential access to educational, work, and digital resources. Additionally, Crash to Cash, an auto-accident legal resource group, awarded college scholarships to deserving local teens, creating emotional moments for recipients and their families.

    Cultural Recognition and Political Presence

    Southside Day also served as a platform for cultural recognition. The Mayor of East Point presented official proclamations to 2 Chainz, honoring his musical contributions and community impact, and to Don P of Trillville. The presence of elected officials from various cities and counties underscored the southside of Atlanta’s enduring political and cultural influence.

    The event seamlessly blended music, food, and political engagement, creating a unique festival-meets-town-hall atmosphere that felt distinctly Atlanta. Local vendors offered a taste of southside pride with their merchandise, while food trucks provided a diverse culinary experience.

    Streetz 94.5 and Musical Vibes

    Streetz 94.5 broadcasted live from the event, adding to the star power with appearances from Mz Shyneka, Shawty Shawty, DJ Swin, and Flex Gang Slim. Their energetic on-air presence amplified the day’s celebratory and community-focused mood. Music was a central element, with DJ sets featuring a mix of Atlanta classics, Southern rap anthems, and current hits, bringing everyone together on the dance floor.

    Visionary producer and community organizer Sherie P masterminded the event, demonstrating how logistics, heart, and culture can harmoniously coexist. Her leadership ensured that Southside Day was more than just a gathering; it was a movement committed to building bridges, offering support, and celebrating Atlanta’s southside with purpose and intention.

    Southside Day Atlanta showcased the power of community collaboration. What are your favorite moments from the event, or what do you hope to see next year? Share in the comments!