Atlanta rap star T.I. will head to Philadelphia, where he will join Russell Simmons and a number of other stars and celebrities who will encourage young people to vote in the upcoming primaries, as well as the presidential race.
The Turn Up the Vote National Hip-Hop Summit is taking place at Temple University on Sunday, April 20.
As previously reported, rappers like Styles P, Flo-Rida and Mike Jones will also be present at the rally, which is sponsored by The Hip-Hop Research and Education Fund (HREF), PowerPAC and Simmons’ Hip-Hop Summit Action Network.
In addition to T.I. and the aforementioned rappers, Jim Jones and R&B singer Ciara have also been confirmed as participants in the rally.
“I am pleased to have the opportunity to travel to Philadelphia to participate in the Hip-Hop Summit,” T.I. said. “We are going to encourage young people to go out to vote. I personally know the value of having the right to vote and it taken away from you, but I will add my voice to help inspire others to take seriously this right and responsibility.”
T.I.’s appearance takes place just two days before the Pennsylvania primary, in an effort to educate millions of young people on the various political and social issues and to register new, younger voters.
“T.I. has supported the Hip-Hop Summit Action Network from the beginning. We are pleased to salute and recognize his leadership and commitment to help others. His presence with us in Philadelphia will greatly enhance our ability to mobilize young voters,” said Valeisha Butterfield, Executive Director of the Hip-Hop Summit Action Network.
The Atlanta rapper will discuss controversial topics that effect today’s youth, including the economy, overcoming poverty, healthcare, the war in Iraq, alcohol and drug prevention and other topics.
“T.I.’s commitment to serve and to give back to the community is a shining example of the best of hip-hop,” Hip-Hop pioneer Russell Simmons added. “The Hip-Hop Summit Action Network and the Hip-Hop Research and Education Fund continue to provide opportunities for artists and others to empower youth. T.I. will join me, Ciara, Jim Jones and a host of other artists to get out the vote across the state of Pennsylvania.”
The Turn Up the Vote National Hip-Hop Summit takes place at Temple University on Sunday, April 20. Doors open at 1:00 PM.