This event is sold out.

We will accept names for a waiting list starting at 1:30pm on the day of the event at the Chicago Cultural Center’s Claudia Cassidy Theater. Seats that are unclaimed as of 1:50pm will be distributed on a first come, first served basis to those on the waiting list.

This event features a screening of Hip-Hop: Beyond Beats and Rhymes, a film by Byron Hurt, and Brotha…Wassup Sun?, a performance by Aqua Beats & Moon, facilitated discussion groups, and a photo exhibition compiled by Females United for Action (FUFA).

Hip-Hop: Beyond Beats and Rhymes, a 2006 Sundance Film Festival selection, is a ground-breaking documentary that examines representations of manhood, sexism, and homophobia in hip-hop culture. Conceived as a “loving critique” of certain disturbing developments in rap music cultureby a long-time Hip-Hop head and former college quarterback, Byron Hurt. Interviewees include Mos Def, Fat Joe, Chuck D, Russell Simmons, Beverly Guy-Sheftall, Michael Erik Dyson, and Sarah Jones.

Following the screening, Aqua Beats and Moon performs, Brotha…Wassup Sun?, which is portrayed through the loving and critical eyes of Black women and asks: “Who and what are Black men?”

Following the presentation, attendees participate in facilitated discussions to share reflections on the notion of both masculinity and femininity as constructed by the media and then contrast these ideas with their own perceptions of what it means to be a man or a woman.

For more information on the documentary, Hip-Hop: Beyond Beats and Rhymes, visit Media Education Foundation.

This event is co-sponsored by Independent Television Service (itvs); Independent Lens, a PBS series; Young Women’s Action Team; Females United for Action; and the Chicago Cultural Center.

This event is free and open to the public. Reservations are required and can be made on-line, via email, or by phone at 312.422.5580.

Groups are encouraged and may reserve up to 15 tickets including adults and youth.

Tickets will be released 5 minutes before the start of the event to those on the waiting list.

For more information, please contac the Public Square at the IHC at 312.422.5580.