The Hidden Power of Hip Hop

A-Plus' commentary was meaningful to me for many reasons. Firstly, I grew up listening to his music in high school and it inspired me. So, to have him speak at an BRL event, and validate and embrace something I created was a tremendous honor. Secondly, his heartfelt message about hip hop music saving his life resonated deep within my soul. This core belief has informed much of my work as a social worker living and working in Oakland, California.

For years, I have been trying to help mental health professionals, administrators and policy makers to understand that hip hop, despite all it's flaws, has tremendous value and purpose to communities of young people. For some youth, it is their only form of escape and expression. A form of expression that functions both as a cathartic outlet and avenue for development. Like A-Plus, countless youth are building networks through hip hop, along with a sense of purpose, self esteem and agency. Youth in urban settings have been long using hip hop as a tool to cope with adversity, although sometimes what they create can be difficult for many adults to appreciate.

I often tell me youth that Hip Hop is a tool, much like a computer. And if all you know how to do on a computer is play dvd's and check myspace, then there will be limits to what that computer can help you do. But, if you can learn to use that same computer to do things such as program websites, edit videos, play games, look for a job or make music, then it becomes a far more power tool. It is the same with hip hop. Some youth like A-Plus may discover the hidden power of hip hop to transform and liberate. But without proper guidance many youth and programs that serve them, will miss out on all hip hop has to offer. I challenge all who read this discover the hidden power o hip hop to build, transform and heal.

-Tomas Alvarez, MSW