Hip Hop began thirty years ago as the artistic expression of “black” communities in New York’s inner city. Hip Hop draws on elements from all of its musical ancestors such as the African drum, slave spirituals, blues, jazz, rock and roll. Hip Hop gives a voice to those who have been unheard. It is based upon four elements: dance (break dancing), art (graffiti art), poetry (rapping) and music (DJ). The growth in popularity of Hip Hop is due to the devotion of youth and cultures worldwide, from Japan to France to Brazil to Australia. It has developed into a worldwide forum through which family, community, social and political grievances are aired.

Perhaps because of its inner city base, Hip Hop is often identified erroneously as a forum for gangsters, drugs, misogyny, and other negative images. The Hip Hop Congress strives to combat that stereotype by creating exposure to the positive attributes of Hip Hop.

The Hip Hop Congress uses the culture of Hip Hop to inspire young people to get involved through social action, civic service, and cultural creativity. Hip Hop Congress is the product of a merger of artists and students, music and community. It is significant because it provides one of few paths for highly creative and often disenfranchised youth where they can channel their energy into a strong and organized force aimed at improving their community.