A Philip Randolph Museum’s Anti-Violence Program Uses Creative Arts to Combat Violence – Program named after President Obama offers unique perspective

Successful violent prevention program continues to impact youth; Museum hosting fundraiser to generate funds to keep effective program operating          

 

CHICAGO, IL – The A Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum (APRPPM) has launched a novel pilot program aimed at combating violence among youth through creative arts.   Titled, “Museum 44 Where Hip Hop Meets History”   and named in honor of 44^th president, Barack Obama, the program is a vehicle where young people that have been exposed to violence can come together in a safe, supportive and non-judgmental environment. The objective is to allow youth to deal with issues in their community at their level of understanding and communication. Using their artistic aspirations and passion for creative expression to also make the connection through history as a channel for opening the lines of communication, the program serves as a powerful forum where youth can tap into their creative talent while expressing their hopes, aspirations and fears.

David Peterson, president, the A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum stated, “I want to be clear this program did not emerge as a result of the tragic death of Hidaya Pendleton. However, we believe that it can be an integral part of the solution that attacks the root causes of the violence that took her young life. It is unrealistic to think that society will solve the violence problem by locking up everyone who is not wearing a suit and tie or by taking away the guns of law-abiding citizens.  The solution MUST addresses the root causes.

To date the program has been operated as a self funded program which is the reason for the fundraiser. The event is the A Philip Randolph Gentle Warrior Awards. The awards will honor the following four Chicago legends:

Karen Lewis, president Chicago Teachers Union; Timothy Rand – President/CEO – Midway Airport Concessionaire, Everett Rand  – President/CEO – Midway Wholesale Beverage, Inc. both legends in The hospitality industry and Bill Williams Vice president of Diversity of Choose Chicago.  The presentations will take place during the Museum’s 18^th anniversary “A Philip Randolph Gentle Awards gala,” which takes place Sunday, February 17 at the Marmon Grand, 2230 S. Michigan Avenue from 5 to 9 p.m. Proceeds from the celebration will go toward launching the Museum’s new youth program, Museum 44 “Where Hip Hop Meets History,” a unique program environment that uses media as a tool, where character development and social consciousness building takes place.

“The four awardees, said David Peterson, president,  “reflect the spirit of the award because they have heroically worked to advance the mission they are charged to lead.” 

For more information and to purchase tickets for the event, log on to aprpullmanportermuseum.org and follow the link for the event.