Texas State Hip Hop Congress: About Us

The Hip Hop Congress provides resources, opportunities and tools to make a social, economic and political change on the local, regional and national level. Hip Hop began 30 years ago as the artistic expression of "black" communities in New York's inner city. Elements from many different musical backgrounds make up hip hop, such as the African drum, slave spirituals, blues, jazz and rock and roll. There are four elements to hip hop: dance, art, poetry and music. The Hip Hop Congress strives to combat the stereotype of gangsters, drugs and other negative images by creating exposure to the positive aspects of hip hop. Hip Hop gives a voice to those that are not being heard. The Hip Hop Congress uses the culture of hip hop to inspire young people to get involved through social action, civic service, and cultural creativity.