Legendary hip hop artist KRS-1 visited Durham College's Oshawa campus recently, promoting the relaunch of the Stop the Violence Movement, established in 1989. From left, Kirandeep Kainth Singh and Stephen Taunt, both of the Riot, and KRS-1.
Despite snowy weather conditions, hip hop legend KRS-1 travelled to Durham College recently, where devoted fans had gathered in the Marketplace Cafeteria to hear the longtime rap artist's words against violence.
The Riot Campus Radio hosted the press conference with KRS-1 on March 7, giving students the opportunity to be entertained, mingle with fellow music lovers and learn about ways to combat violence.
"Hip hop needs to be explicitly about peace," said KRS-1. "I'm hoping to engage a crowd that's interested in the future. We need vision to see beyond our today."
Also known as The Teacha of the Temple of Hip Hop, KRS-1 shared his efforts of relaunching the Stop the Violence Movement (STVM); a campaign he initiated in 1989 after a young fan was killed during a concert featuring himself and other rap artists.
The relaunch is well underway. Artists such as 50 Cent, Busta Rhymes, Chingy and Cassidy have joined forces with KRS-1 to extinguish global violence through education, critical dialogue, grassroots organizations and direct action.
"His attitude is extremely positive and he's a great influence for students," said Chris Tophan, a Law and Security Administration student. Tophan has been head-nodding to the hip hopper's beats of unity, freedom and peace for 10 years.
"KRS-1 represents a whole different culture. This event provides a fresh insight for students," he said.