In 2023, two significant 50-year anniversaries converged. First, the golden anniversary of Hip-Hop, the Black and Brown cultural revolution born in the South Bronx. A movement that resonated across the globe, becoming the universal anthem for marginalized communities in every corner of every barrio. Hip-Hop emerged from the ashes of disinvestment, urban renewal, and redlining —a microcosm of the neoliberal policies being tested and implemented globally.
Second, the 50th year since the military coup in Chile, and the 50 years of resistance against the economic model it championed. Chile became the laboratory for neoliberalism, an exploitative and extractive model that's since been exported worldwide, jeopardizing the survival of humanity and the planet. From the South Bronx to Santiago, Chile, this ideology has privatized resources, commodified cultures, and incarcerated generations. Whether it's the gentrification of the Bronx, austerity imposed on Puerto Rico, or militarization of Mapuche territory in Chile, there’s a clear link with Hip Hop as a culture of survival and resistance.
Liberation Summer wasn’t just a commemoration, but a call to action, spanning fourteen events in two countries and reaching over 5,000 people. From concerts at the legendary SOBs and a street festival in Puerto Rico, to programming at the BronxArtsSpace, and jam sessions Upstate and in Brooklyn, the aim was to reflect and learn from the past, highlight ongoing struggles, and foster international solidarity. With iconic artists like Ana Tijoux, this year's Belafonte Fellowship recipient, the aim was to unite generations and emphasize culture's role in driving change.
Big thanks to the artists: Ana Tijoux, Bahamadia, PJ Sinsuela, Talib Kweli, Rah Digga, Hordatoj, Hijo de Boriken, Rebel Diaz, DJ Atenea, Popmaster Fabel, MC Millaray, Audry Funk, Lalo Meneses, DJ Ethos, DJ Eclipse, DJ Velcro, Ana Macho, DJ Toca Lale, DJ KayKay47, DJ Illanoiz, Kaylove BX, Jimmy Fernandez, King Capo, B-Boy Pollo, Kid Break, Los del Sur, Division X, Fatima Rivera, A Desalambrar, Fabio Puentes, Lope de Nava, Keith Rosello, Miguel Gonzales, Jose Gonzales, DJ Andres Cali
