mcmatre@gmail.com

myspace.com/mcmatre

RAPtivism (rap activism) is an International Hip Hop Project which seeks to explore rap and hip hop activism in the United States, Denmark, India, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa and the United Kingdom. Beginning in July 2009 through the generous support of a Watson Fellowship, RAPtivism highlights the ways in which global hip hop music and culture can actively contribute to universal efforts for freedom and social justice by challenging apathy, ignorance and intellectual oppression. This blog is both a platform for the work of serious artists/'RAPtivists' and relevant social causes as well as a chronicle of my experiences throughout this journey around the world and back. Please direct all questions, comments and creative contributions for RAPtivism to Aisha at aishafukushima@gmail.com *All of the opinions in this blog are my own, and do not represent any other organizations or groups I may be affiliated with.

http://raptivism.tumblr.com

Davey D is a journalist and Hip Hop activist who is originally from the Bronx and now lives in Oakland where he does a daily radio show -Hard Knock Radio heard on KPFA 94.1 FM and writes a column for the San Jose Mercury news. Davey D also teaches a class on Hip Hop culture and politics at SF State. Davey D's Hip Hop Corner which is one of the oldest and largest Hip Hop websites.

http://hiphopandpolitics.wordpress.com

The Universal Zulu Nation is an international hip hop awareness group formed and headed by hip hop pioneer Afrika Bambaataa. Originally known simply as the Organization, it arose in the 1970s as reformed New York City gang members began to organize cultural events for youths, combining local dance and music movements into what would become known as the various elements of hip hop culture. By the 1980s, hip hop had spread globally, and the Zulu Nation has since established (autonomous) branches in Japan, France, the UK, Australia, South Korea and the Cape Flats in Cape Town South Africa.

http://www.zulunation.com

Youth Mentoring Connection awakens at-risk youth to their power, unique gifts and purpose by matching them with caring adult mentors and placing that "match" within a structured group dynamic that provides the resources youth need to reach productive, conscious adulthood. We further seek to awaken society to the needs, promise and value of this overlooked population.

Our Vision is of a community where young people are truly seen and not just watched, where society understands and accepts its responsibility in meeting the needs of all young people, and where young people bring their gifts back into their communities as productive members of society.

http://www.youthmentoring.org

WeStrive works to lead the world toward stronger, healthier and more sustainable community as well as more effective social action by supporting socially and spiritually striving individuals, initiatives and organizations with a platform for social networking, economic association, educational opportunities and connection to all who endeavor together in co-creating a better world.

http://westrive.org