Hip Hop for Humanities festival promotes peace

7/27/2008
Singer Jalen Middlebrooks and his group, Solomon Temple, entertain during the third annual Hip Hop for Humanities festival in downtown Toledo's Promenade Park yesterday.
Singer Jalen Middlebrooks and his group, Solomon Temple, entertain during the third annual Hip Hop for Humanities festival in downtown Toledo's Promenade Park yesterday.

More than 320 students took part in a 1.3-mile peace march in downtown Toledo yesterday in the third annual Hip Hop for Humanities festival with the theme "Teens Promoting Peace." It was sponsored by Toledo's youth commission.

The march was followed by performances by local 11 to 19-year-olds, including dancing, singing, poetry readings, and a gospel group.

"It is totally geared to promoting a peaceful venue that is created by youth and for youth," said Joshua Ellis, 18, of Toledo, who is chairman of the Committee for Hip Hop for Humanities.

"It's an opportunity to see the bright future and great hidden talent in Toledo," added Victoria Phifer, 19, of Toledo, an intern with the youth commission.