On April 8th Words, Beats & Life will present Lupe Fiasco as the 2023 Rap Laureate during The Remixing the Art of Social Change conference.

The event takes place at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. library in Washington DC from 11:00 a.m. to 12:10 p.m. Scholars, artists, and activists will discuss the power and potential of Hip-Hop culture at this conference which is free to the public, and part of the Words, Beats & Life Festival which is held in D.C. and Maryland from April 4 through April 9.

The Rap Laureate is a new publication from Words, Beats & Life that analyzes an artist's work and highlights its significance to Hip-Hop culture and its potential to inspire and educate young people from diverse backgrounds. The publication also attempts to bridge the gaps between Hip-Hop culture and academics, while helping educators create a curriculum that is culturally relevant and engaging to students.

Dr. Jason Nichols and Mikal Amin Lee co-wrote the first issue of Rap Laureate, which also features artwork by Ali Cool Guy. It delves into Lupe Fiasco's discography and career to show why he is one of the most important rappers of the past two decades. Lupe Fiasco's music often tackles social issues and cultural identity, making him a great educator.

The Remixing the Art of Social Change conference is free for anyone who signs up and features a catered lunch, workshops, and discussions on Hip-Hop and activism with the authors and illustrators of the Rap Laureate. 

Register for the conference here .