The South has always been a moral barometer for our nation’s emotional and political health. The deep wounds of generational slavery and the scars of injustice remain unhealed. Recent situations of racial profiling and unprovoked violence committed by some members of law enforcement have made those dated sores pulsate. The emotions behind anyone's struggle with this type of circumstance will be embedded in the DNA of their artistic output. For 10 years Hip Hop pioneer Killer Mike has been an ambassador for the Southern Hip Hop perspective and an outspoken activist for community progression.
With all of his hard earned success it would have been logical for Killer Mike to continue navigating the streets of creative commerce until he reached his desired financial outcome. He could have followed in the footsteps of many other artists that have constructed complex digital bridges of separation between themselves and their fan base that foster resentment and backlash. Fortunately, Killer Mike decided to use his ever expanding platform to create opportunities for those willing to follow his blueprint of hard work and dedication. He has acted as a social and political change agent for neighborhoods in need of rejuvenation. In 2011 he opened up a Barbershop with his wife, Shana Render, called Graffiti's SWAG in Atlanta, Georgia. He saw this enterprise as an "Opportunity for real economic elevation." He has plans to open 150 shops across the United States over time, predominantly in cities with large black communities.
Killer Mike has become a trusted and influential voice to a viewing public misinformed about racial and systemic inequities. He continues to raise awareness against police brutality and the wrongful deaths of Eric Garner, Freddie Gray and Mike Brown. His passion for making a difference has given him a chance to speak at various universities (New York University and Massachusetts institute of Technology) about the intricacies of racial relations in the U.S. Recently, in June 2015 Killer Mike ran as a write-in candidate to become the representative for Georgia's 55th district in the Georgia House of Representatives. His bold actions have opened up a much needed dialog between political leaders. Citizens and influencers of Hip Hop culture will one day walk the halls of power and influence because of the his efforts. In a culture saturated in pretension and self-promotion Killer Mike provides the listener with powerful life scriptures and his selfless commitment to political and self-awareness in their communities.
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