A variety of opinions flew across the African American Cultural Center on Thursday night at a forum about the effect of hip-hop on American culture.
Participants discussed topics such as the hip-hop image and the image of black women.
Ashley Willis, a political science junior, said she thinks hip-hop presents a unique image of music and society.
“I think it reflects society, but also glorifies it,” Willis said. “I think they shouldn’t glorify the black society as much as they do.”
However, Willis said she also understands the business side of the music industry.
“I can appreciate that it has brought some people up from the ghettos,” she said. “I know they have made it and they have to sell records.”
Chayla Freeman, a chemistry graduate student, said she applauds the strides black music producers have made in recent years.
“They’re smart people in the ghetto,” Freeman said. “They’ve shown the grassroots intelligence we have in our community.”
Some participants also said hip-hop has affected the image of black women.
“When you see the women in those videos, and see their behavior, it shows that hip-hop does have a distorted view of the African-American woman,” said Kiana Cousin, a psychology freshman.
However, male participants said black men do not always realize some hip-hop images can be offensive.
“I can’t read your mind. If something offends you, tell me about it,” said Jordan Simien, an electrical engineering junior.
In general, participants said despite various opinions, hip-hop still provides a good communication channel for blacks.
“Hip-hop as a whole is an avenue for communication for the whole black community,” Willis said.
Katina Bias, an ISDS junior, said the infusion of other musical elements, such as jazz and classical, into hip-hop helps educate the black community.
“It’s getting us to listen to other genres of music and educating us more about other cultures, and that’s always a good thing,” Bias said.