TONIGHT: Mayor Adams, Council Member Salamanca to join hip-hop legends at Bronx SOY event

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Council Member Rafael Salamanca Jr.
Photo courtesy of the Office of Rafael Salamanca Jr.

The youth development program Servicing Our Youth (SOY) is set to host a landmark community event Thursday, June 29, aimed at strengthening ties between elected officials and the hip-hop community.

Titled “Bridging the Gap Between Elected Officials and the Hip-Hop Community,” the event will feature an evening of dialogue and collaboration between civic leaders and iconic figures in music. Scheduled to take place from 6 to 8 p.m. at 1401 Inwood Ave. inside the Bronx High School of FLACS, the gathering is expected to draw notable attendees from both political and cultural spheres.

Among the featured guests are New York City Mayor Eric Adams and City Council Member Rafael Salamanca, who is also a candidate for Bronx Borough President. They will be joined by a host of local elected officials and community stakeholders.

Legendary hip-hop artists including Grand Wizard Theodore, DJ Jazzy Jeff and Chaka—widely recognized for shaping Spanish hip-hop and trap music—will also take part in the evening’s discussion, highlighting the intersection of art, youth empowerment, and civic responsibility.

The event is co-sponsored by the Latino Pastoral Action Center (LPAC) and Hip Hop Boulevard, organizations dedicated to promoting leadership and cultural awareness. Organizers say the forum aims to inspire youth, encourage political participation, and celebrate the positive influence of hip-hop in community development.