These days if you ask anyone outside of Chicago what their thoughts are on the city, you will hear words like war-zone, killing, and dangerous. I couldn’t fault them for using such words because Chicago is definitely in the spotlight for the recent amount of shootings and deaths that seem all too familiar.
If you ask native Chicagoans about the condition of the city, you may hear conflicting perspectives dependent on what side of town they are from. Chicago is the most segregated city in the United States. I see this everyday. I feel like this is the source of our problem. This segregation breeds misunderstanding, poverty and lack of gainful opportunities.
Underneath this history of segregation something else is happening in Chicago. There is a sense of community and understanding that is being cultivated. If you listen closely you can hear the heartbeat. The Arts are the heartbeat.
Precise and Eric Williams
For the past 12 years Eric Williams owner of The Silver Room jewelry store in the Wicker Park community of Chicago has hosted the Sound System Block Party. Every year is an amazing experience and this year was no different.
This event represents what Chicago can be, and that is a true community where cultures come together in peace and love. Dj’s, painters and musicians converge and bring an energy of creativity and enthusiasm that can’t be denied.
My set at Energy Alley was AWESOME and I want to thank Dj Kwest_on for rocking with me.
Precise and Dj Kwest_On
My favorite part of the block party are the Dj’s. Im giving a special shout to Dj Tess, Dj Kwest_on and Larry Miller for rocking dope sets last night.
Dj Ron Trent brought everything together. He started his set off with Maya Angelou’s Poem “Phenomenal Woman” and after that the crowd went wild. What an amazing night.
I appreciate Eric Williams for sharing his vision with us and acting as a hub for the artist throughout the entire city. The spirit of love was all around and I would like to say thank you on behalf of Chicago artistry.
See more pics below.
Mom and Daughter
Dj Tess
Artist – Nicole Malcolm
Dj Kwest_On
Duane Powell
Artist – Rafe Pepin
Khari B
Artist – Max
Khari Lemuel
Trizona
Val Bee
Sandria
Shanara The Mouthpeace
K Sean
Koku Gonza
Aisha and Rena
Aisha
David Weathersby
Carita
Redell Drakeford
Dancing in the street
Young and Old
Face Painting
Shanara – Stacy – Inez – Sandria – Daryl
Johari
Mom and Daughter
Were you able to make it to the block party? Did you like it? Would you like to create your own? Let me now in the comments below and please like the post. 🙂
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Precise 