Something From Nothing

Something From Nothing

by Amanda Richardson
Monday November 19, 2007

Hip-Hop is a universal language that started with two turntables and a microphone. The street corners of New York City became enchanted with acapella ensembles and beat boxing. These are the examples the Honorable George Martinez used during his lecture to cite the ideas of creating something from nothing.

His charismatic message was thought provoking and inspiring in breaking the cultural confines of Hip-Hop. If one believes Hip-Hop is a sub-culture that has ostracized an entire nation, Mr. Martinez disproved that when he reflected on his travels around the world. Many countries including the US, India, South Africa, China, and Japan speak the universal language of Hip-Hop.

It is evident that there is an emergence of culture that asked questions common to humanity. He witnessed for the first time a platform for people to communicate their hopes and fears about education reform, healthcare and civic literacy. Hip-Hop is a line of communication that transcends race, color and religion.

A classroom of aspiring leaders experienced a transformation as Martinez explained the concept that “starting something from nothing,” just as Hip-Hop did, could be the blueprint for change in their communities. For example, youth could help their peers achieve academic excellence by hosting study groups. Martinez suggests that Hip-Hop could be an instructional tool in academic achievement and effective leadership.

The innovation and creativity that lead to the creation of Hip-Hop is the grassroots method Martinez models to reach people. He started with just a vision and established a network of social change through Hip-Hop. His time in Massachusetts was an opportunity for young leaders to join the movement and become agents of sustainable change.