Keith Tucker on Empowering Youth and Addressing Climate Change Through Hip Hop
In this interview on The Day with Trae, Trae Holiday welcomes back Keith Tucker, founder of Hip Hop is Green, to discuss the upcoming Hip Hop Climate Conference on November 7th at the University of Washington. Tucker shares updates on his nonprofit's work, which began in 2009 by serving over 40,000 plant-based meals to communities across the country. Hip Hop is Green now focuses on climate change and healthy living, particularly through its Youth Excellence Program that teaches young people about environmental issues and sustainable practices.
Tucker highlights how the program empowers youth with knowledge about the harmful effects of industries like factory farming, plastic production, and fishing. Participants engage in hands-on projects, such as planting thousands of trees, and learn how they can be part of climate change solutions. He mentions that the organization is passing the torch to the next generation, who are key to driving environmental justice.
The interview also touches on Tucker’s introduction of the 10th Element of Hip Hop, which integrates health, wellness, and sustainability into the hip-hop culture. He reflects on the need to balance hip-hop’s influence by promoting positive messages that counteract harmful aspects in today’s music.
Looking ahead to the Hip Hop Climate Conference, Tucker expresses excitement about the event, which will feature prominent figures like MCs Freeway, Sa-Roc, and hip-hop pioneer Easy A.D., alongside filmmaker Albert Hughes. The conference will address climate change from various angles, with performances and discussions aimed at educating and inspiring action among young people. Tucker encourages the community, especially youth, to get involved and attend the groundbreaking event.
For more information visit hhccc.org.
To see more guests like Keith, tune in with Trae every weekday at 11 a.m. on all Converge Media platforms and The Day With Trae YouTube Channel.
