Initially viewed only as an expression of African American culture, hip hop and rap have evolved into a means of expression for youth and a tool for reworking local identity on a global scale. The latest installment of the Nourishing Thoughts at the Food Bank lecture series explores identity and performance in hip hop culture. Charity Marsh, professor in the Faculty of Fine Arts, will address how Canadian Indigenous artists and communities are contributing to new forms of international hip hop. The lecture will take place Wed. Mar. 15 at 12 p.m. at the Education Centre at the Regina and District Food Bank (425 Winnipeg Street). The talk is open to all and a free lunch will be served.

Hip Hop culture was born in the mid-70s on the streets of New York City, specifically in the South Bronx. Comprised of the following four basic elements, M/C (rap), DJ (turntablism), Break (dancing), and Graffiti (art), hip hop signaled a new form of cultural and political expression for disenfranchised black and Latino youth. The rhymes told complex stories of racism, poverty, and violence. At the same time, the culture produced tangible examples of resistance, community strength, and a defiant reclamation of public space.

In the 80s and 90s, as rap and hip hop became increasingly popular and commercialized throughout the western world, the musical culture’s political edge became watered down or was absent all together. However, the “early” days of hip hop culture have continued to have a major impact on popular music on a global scale. In Canada, Indigenous artists and communities are making significant contributions as producers, consumers, and participants in community-based hip hop projects or collectives.

The University of Regina is partnering with the Regina and District Food Bank and the First Nations University of Canada to offer Nourishing Thoughts at the Food Bank, a lunchtime lecture series for the general public and participants in the food bank’s educational programs.