ImageNation, founded by Moikgantsi Kgama and run by Gregory Gates (Executive Producer), ImageNation has been a cultural powerhouse.
The event is hosted film screenings, live music performances, and various cultural events for over 1,000,000 people worldwide since its establishment in New York City in 1997. ImageNation’s impact has extended to prestigious venues like the Film Society of Lincoln Center, and the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture in Harlem, as well as internationally in places like South Africa, Scotland, and Canada. Their programs have featured renowned filmmakers such as Spike Lee, Lee Daniels, Stanley Nelson, and Ava DuVernay.
Hip-Hop Education Center (HHEC) serves as an innovative hub and incubator, connecting Hip-Hop artists, educators, students, scholars, activists, and more from around the world. This center strives to empower the community while preserving, creating, and honoring Hip-Hop’s rich legacy.
Just A Friend Foundation, established by Biz Markie, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing unwavering support and essential resources to children in foster care and those experiencing food deprivation. The foundation is committed to improving the lives of these vulnerable children, offering opportunities for empowerment, and creating a brighter future through various programs and partnerships.
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Screening of “UP ALL IN THE BIZ” (The Biz Markie documentary) presented by Mass Appeal and Showtime. With the Official proclamation presentation announcing BIZ MARKIE DAY, Special performance by THE LAST POETS, celebrating their 55th Anniversary, the Performance by THE HIP-HOP SYMPHONY composed & conducted by Steve Wallace, the 80’s/90’s/2000 HIP-HOP FASHION SHOW presented by HARLEM WEEK’s Be The Change, and Special guest DJ: the Legendary DJ HOLLYWOOD.
The Film “Up All In the Biz”
The documentary was directed by Sacha Jenkins who is responsible for other artist-centered documentaries including Wu-Tang Clan: of Mics and Men, and Bitchin’: The Sound And Fury of Rick James. He spoke to Southern Laced about the impact that Biz Markie had on Hip Hop and her forthcoming project.
“Biz Markie is the pure essence of Hip Hop,” he said. “He believed in [it], he lived it, he harnessed its powers. Most people don’t know that he used those powers to power up some of the culture’s greatest poets and then some. I was fortunate to meet with Biz when he was alive so to have the opportunity to bring him back to life now that he isn’t here … it’s a special film.”
Thursday, August 31, 2023, 5 – 7:30 PM EST, Marcus Garvey Park Amphitheater, 18 Mount Morris Park West, Harlem, NY 10027
Admission is free, but RSVP is required. Secure your spot at: Eventbrite RSVP.
When people are fed, futures are nourished. With access to nutritious foods, we can all reach our full potential. Join the movement to end hunger, because when we all work together, we can create an America where everyone has the food they need to thrive.
