BMAC Grammy week Economic justice summit
Johnny Nunez / Getty for Black Music Action Coalition
In the vibrant heart of Los Angeles, the Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC) recently concluded a dynamic GRAMMY Week, leaving a resonant impact on the music industry and beyond. The week culminated in an inspiring Economic Justice Summit at UTA, where music luminaries and activists gathered to explore the transformative power of music in driving economic justice through guaranteed income.
The event boasted an impressive lineup, featuring influential figures like Representative Cori Bush, Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Flavor Flav, and BMAC Co-Founder & CEO, Willie “Prophet” Stiggers. A panel of thought leaders, including Michael Tubbs, former Mayor of Stockton, Maura Cuffie-Peterson from Creatives Rebuild NY, and John Sykes of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame / iHeartMedia, engaged in thought-provoking discussions, shedding light on the potential of the music industry to contribute to economic justice.
Johnny Nunez / Getty for Black Music Action Coalition
A pivotal moment during the summit was the exclusive preview of the forthcoming documentary, “It’s Basic.” The clip showcased families whose lives were transformed by receiving a guaranteed income, highlighting the vital advocacy work of leaders like Michael Tubbs, who spearheaded the first guaranteed income program during his tenure as the Mayor of Stockton.
BMAC’s commitment to celebrating Black creatives and fostering economic empowerment was evident throughout the week. The coalition collaborated with BOMESI (Black Owned Media Equity & Sustainability Institute) for an exclusive Media Mixer, emphasizing the importance of supporting Black-owned media and featuring a powerful panel discussion with industry leaders.
Johnny Nunez / Getty for Black Music Action Coalition
The festivities commenced with a star-studded Music Maker Dinner hosted in collaboration with legendary producers Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis. The evening announced the winners of the 2024 BMAC x ASCAP x Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis Music Maker Grant, showcasing emerging talents like Mikaili Ector and Zaire Porter. Additionally, a new initiative, the BMAC x Victoria Monét Music Maker Grant, was unveiled by the multi-talented, 10x GRAMMY Nominee Victoria Monét, providing a Black emerging artist with $5,000 and invaluable mentorship opportunities.
BMAC’s GRAMMY Week served as a testament to the coalition’s dedication to uplifting Black creatives and amplifying their voices in the music industry. The week’s events encapsulated the essence of BMAC’s mission: promoting racial justice across labels, publishers, agencies, distributors, and society at large. By fostering initiatives in education, mental health, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, policing, social justice, and politics, BMAC continues to make a positive impact on Black communities.
For those interested in learning more about the Black Music Action Coalition and its mission, visit [BMAC’s official website](https://www.bmacoalition.org/). The coalition’s unwavering commitment to justice and creativity ensures that the harmony of change continues to resonate far beyond the applause of GRAMMY Week.