Premiere of UNDERWATER PROJECTS hip-hop projects during Climate Week in New York –

On Monday night, the Hip Hop Caucus, a national nonprofit organization connecting art, activism and hip-hop culture, celebrated the short film’s premiere on the green carpet UNDERWATER PROJECTS during Climate Week in New York. The event was attended by Hip Hop Caucus President and CEO Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer Liz Havstad, as well as prominent environmental advocates such as sustainability activist Anya Dillard.

UNDERWATER PROJECTSnarrated by comedian Wanda Sykes and directed by Liz Havstad, examines the dangers of flooding in coastal cities in the Hampton Roads area of ​​Virginia, where the world’s largest naval base is threatened by rising sea levels. The film highlights how inadequate flood walls in the area put vulnerable communities at risk, such as a nearby housing project and the African American Historic District. Combining live action with animation, the film profiles local leaders working to develop climate change resilience plans. It can be viewed at WeShallBreathe.com.

The premiere took place after the “We Shall Breathe” virtual summit that kicked off Climate Week. The summit highlighted the intersecting challenges of climate justice, economic inequality and voting rights, especially from the perspective of Black, Brown and Indigenous communities in the U.S. South and the Global South. Musical performances included Jade Novah, rapper Yellopain and AY Young.

In addition to the New York premiere, the Hip Hop Club hosts community film screenings UNDERWATER PROJECTS in key locations throughout the country. For those who missed it, a recap of the Green Carpet Summit and Premiere is available to watch on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIn.

As part of its ongoing support, the Hip Hop Club has also launched Respect my voice! campaign to mobilize Gen Z voters, voters of color and returning citizens ahead of the 2024 presidential election. You can watch the campaign trailer below.