University of Michigan sophomore Travis Jones III, 19, stands with his mouth taped shut with “#We Can’t Breathe”

The notion of a city being denounced from a basic human right to fresh, clean water is a concerning issue that not only needs to be addressed, but also apprehended in a pragmatic manner because retrospectively speaking, the progressiveness of our communities will certainly be impacted negatively; if we continue to live as voiceless victims of racial and economic divisions that plague our nation’s vitality.

The Flint Water Crisis should be used as a platform to create better opportunities, by addressing health issues and financial concerns; for those whom are explicitly impacted. As we look at the situation at hand, problems become much more confusing. Egotistical personalities have superimposed themselves on this city’s water disaster, which could ultimately generate a false reality of hope for the residents and other conscientious if we allow it to.

According to hip-hop mogul, Russell Simmons, “”It’s not a natural disaster but they should be able to do more. What’s happening here, this kind of environmental racism could be happening in many other parts of the county. If this were Beverly Hills, it would be a minute before we found out and a second before someone would be blamed and be brought up on charges.”

Although the water epidemic has brought new attention to the city of Flint, it most certainly isn’t a new concept. We’ve seen what celebrities’ persuasiveness, and a strong media presences can bring to a crisis situation similar to The Flint Water Crisis.

Ferguson Market & Liquor, Mike Brown was allegedly last seen here before his death; becomes prime destination for looters.

Today, urban communities around America are growing substantially. Pain and suffering has monetized an environment of joy; even through the face of tragedy, and with or without the presence of media attention. Residents young and old are becoming more educated in all things social justice, business development, while understanding public policies that affect the vitality of inner-city neighborhoods, to ensure measures of a quality life are given to everyone in these communities.

Darius Simpson, an Eastern Michigan University student from Akron, Ohio, carries water he brought to donate for Flint residents.

The post Issues we Need to Address Beyond The Flint Water Crisis appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

With two Golden Globe nominations under “SELMA’s” belt thus far, the one that makes history is the nomination for Best Director. Ava  DuVernay is the first Black women to be honored in the category. There has been two African American directors nominated in the past, Spike Lee ( 1990, Do The Right Thing) and Steven McQueen (2014, 12 Years A Slave). To top off more reasons to celebrate DuVernay’s Digital release of her critically acclaimed film Middle of Nowhere finally arrives on DVD, Digital HD and On Demand January 13, 2015! Check out the film Digital release Trailer right here:

The post HOLLYWOOD NEWS: ‘SELMA’S’ AVA DUVERNAY BECOMES FIRST AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMAN TO RECEIVE BEST DIRECTOR NOMINATION AT GOLDEN GLOBES appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.