Newark's '24 hours of peace' brings community together through hip-hop

NEWARK, N.J. (PIX11)—The city of Newark is hosting its annual “24 hours of peace,” an event that uses Hip-Hop culture to engage the community.

This year, all performers are females—the message behind it is women’s empowerment.  

Hip Hop took over the West Ward in the city of Newark Friday evening. For a very special purpose.

“To bring the community together and to drop the guns and get off the streets.” Said young residents Javier and Jeremy.

The yearly “24 hours of peace,”  a place where music brings people together to have meaningful conversations like stopping violence  and conflict resolution.  

“This is a good initiative to bring anti-violence and good imitative to the city,” Stated resident Rafeza.

Local and international artists, such as singer and philanthropist Mya Harrison, will take the stage one song at a time.

“It is about role modeling, using these artists that are influential to the youth. Let’s change narrative,” said  Hakim Green, Co-founder and President 24 Hours of Peace. 

The event, created 12 years ago by Mayor Rass Baraka, is a signature event in Newark. It defines how citizens deepen their commitment to each other as a unified, caring community.

 “It  is important for a lot of reasons, we are trying to make sure we educate the community about peace,” said  Amiri Baraka, Jr -Chief of Staff Mayor City of Newark.

And, of course, you can’t go on 24 hours of music and dancing without food. Local vendors are also taking part in the event.

“Our community needs a lot of peace because a lot of things are happening, people are passing away. School is starting soon so great to be at this event peace,” Said Samia.

The 24 Hours of Peace marks the end of Newark’s Peace Week, seven days filled with activities to unite the city and learn about caring for each other.