Louisville, Kentucky (WDRB) A hip-hop, neo-soul ensemble from Louisville is encouraging empathy and critical thinking via song lyrics. The Mighty Shades of Ebony combine performance with advocacy. Original songs concerning social, economic, and environmental concerns are written and performed by the teen ensemble.
Justice League L.O.U., which stands for Love, Outreach, and Unity, is a nonprofit organization founded by the Mighty Shades of Ebony three years ago. “Love motivates service. If you care about your community, you’ll want to reach out and do your part to promote harmony, which completes the circle “explained Genesis Hatchet.
Hatchet, a student at duPont Manual, said the band performs its songs to highlight contemporary issues. “What goes around, comes around, is a line from a song we have labeled “No more gun violence.” It’s karma, then. Guns are not necessary. Where no book can serve as your shield, “She spoke.
At least five young people have been taken into custody for murder by the Louisville Metro Police Department this year. We’re just working to show all of those kids and youth that you don’t have to be in that box and you can be so much greater than people tell you to be, you don’t have to pick up a gun, Hatchet said.
“A lot of times, as Black kids or Black youth, we’re fed this idea and we’re put in this box of who we can and cannot be,” he added. “You’re not required to belong to a gang. You’re not required to be on the streets right now. Being a scholar is possible.”
“We shouldn’t have to wait until we are older—say, ten or fifteen years—to make that adjustment. I think we can accomplish it right now. especially considering that we are the youth, “added Ingram Quick.
Hatchet and Jayus Rasheed rap quickly. “You already know about adults who wreck children’s childhoods. Hopefully not, but sometimes seeing their future hurts so much “said swiftly.
The organization claimed it is why they study topics like gun violence and others. Jayus Rasheed stated, “It’s working and reaching out to these folks, so that we may have a better community.” “One of the earliest efforts we ever did was called “Tricked-out trashcan.”
It has to do with placing garbage cans and murals in areas that have been designated as “redlined.” As a result, these areas might appear lovely and like a source of pride for us.”
Hatchet added that while some people might not be interested in hearing a speech on gun violence, they could be interested in hearing a song instead.
Kids in the group range in age from 11 to 17. Chris Rasheed, the group’s founder, claimed that they perform around Louisville practically every weekend.
Chris Rasheed claimed, “I’ve found the fountain of youth because I get to see them, feel them, and see how they simply take the world by storm.”
“We are partners in attempting to find solutions to these issues when I say to them, “I see you, and this is a collaboration.” They are no longer a victim as a result of their activity.”