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Read The Global Grind Chat Transcript With Russell Simmons

Posted by: The Blackspot 3/9/2009 | 937 Views

COMMENTS

Thanks to everyone who joined in. Look forward to more discussion in the near future.

Russell Simmons Live Chat

(03/09/2009)

1:18	Global Grind: test

1:22	What are your thoughts on the Rockefeller Drug Laws? I Disagree ( 25% ) I'm On The Fence ( 25% ) I Agree ( 0% ) I'll Agree With Some Changes ( 50% )

1:27	[Comment From DJ Phoenix] I understand why you want to do this, but I understand alot of the arguments that are posted

1:27	[Comment From Guest] Overhaul of "RDL"

1:28	[Comment From Guest] We have always had a voice but now they will have to listen.

1:30	[Comment From Shaka] Overhaul of "RDL"

1:33	Global Grind: Welcome to our discussion on the Rockefeller Drug Laws. Russell Simmons will be joining in at 3:00 pm (eastern time). For now, check out the artcle below, watch the exclusive video of "Lockdown U.S.A." by Jim Jones and leave your comments.

1:37	[Comment From Phil] Looking forward to the discussion

1:41	[Standby] We'll be back at 3:00 pm for the discussion. See you soon.

2:49	[Comment From Danny Tejada] Can anyone let me know about what's going with these Drug Laws? It has been a while since I've been in NYC.

2:50	[Comment From Guest] me too

2:50	[Comment From Mondo] So am i

2:50	[Comment From Mondo] We are in trouble

2:50

[Comment From globalmdEUCE]
Do you think the communities and people who have been most affected by these laws, are anywhere near prepared for a "reversal" of these same laws? What I mean is this: if there is still no economic medium in place for our people to generate income, then what does one expect to happen should these laws be reversed?

2:50	[Comment From globalmdEUCE] Besides, I thought guys like Jim Jones are "ballin'!" because of drug sales????

2:54	[Comment From Mondo] SElling drugs is the single most whackest way to make money

2:58	[Comment From Guest] if pharmacist were treated with the rockefeller laws nationwide ?

2:59	Global Grind: Welcome to our special chat with Russell Simmons.

3:00	Global Grind: Thank you all for joining us today on this discussion on the Rocefeller Drug Laws. It's a topic that affects each and every one of us. Let's start now.

3:00

[Comment From Dr. Ben Chavis]
JIm Jones video is both culturally and educationally a real hit. Now is the time to end the Rockefeller Drug Laws once and for all. We need this music played on every urban, R&B, and hip-hop radio station across America. We need this video to be shown everywhere possible. Politicians must be held accountable on this matter. Change is in the air, but it will not happen unless we all do more, speak more, write more, protest more and make a difference with our presence and action on this issue.

3:00	[Comment From Suavv Magazine] I agree selling drugs is the whackest way to make money. the problem is promoting jobs in those same neighborhoods so that people dont resort to this. we have to mentor youth and show them a differnet way

3:00	[Comment From Suavv Magazine] the majority of drugdealers are young

3:01	Russell Simmons: I am here to answer any questions and to give an update on where the fight to end the laws are.

3:02	[Comment From Jack] Are the laws changing to become more fair for new offenders??

3:02	[Comment From Tiffany Janay] The food that is available at your local grocery store is probably just as lethal as drugs sold on your neighborhood corner. Its killing our people at a rapid rate. We should be fighting this as well.

3:02	[Comment From Suavv Magazine] I think the majority of people need to learn what the Rockefeller Laws are and that will clear up a lot.

3:02	ShakGriff: The so called drug war in this country is a joke. Not only does the RDL need to be overhauled but the whole drug war needs to be redefined.

3:02	globalmdEUCE: what happens if we win?

3:03

Russell Simmons: This is a response to Danny Tejada's questions. Last week, the NYS Assembly passed a great bill - that we support. This will give full judicial discretion back to the judges and get rid of the mandatory minimum sentences. It is now up to Governor Patterson and Senate Leader Malcolm Smith to make this bill law.

3:04	[Comment From Mack of Sound-Savvy] I agree with Suavv Magazine, it's a lack of knowledge and an abundance of ignorance

3:04	Russell Simmons: It will give a lot more attention to rehab, and not imprisonment...we must move towards a public health and safety approach top drugs (treatment and education, not incarceration) -- reforming the Rockefeller is the first step

3:05	[Comment From Larry Kopp] Russell, Larry Kopp here. What is HSAN doing to spread this cause nationwide. There are many other states who have similar punitive laws on the books right?

3:05	[Comment From globalgrindiceprods] Greetings, Thanks for bringing this issue to light, I am a native brooklynite.36 yrs of this policestateofmind...... keep on working hard I am sharing info as I get it... Blessings

3:06	[Comment From Jay Mills] As n ower of a website that specializes in hi hop and community how can we at http://www.detroitrap.cm take part and spread the word on this cause

3:06

Russell Simmons: Hi Larry. HSAN is working hard to keep this issue in the spotlight. Check out the global grind site for the Jim Jones song that he made to keep the pressure on. We will continue to mobilize and make sure that the politicians do what they say. We have all three parts of the NYS govt in democratic hands. Now is the time. If we get rid of these in NY, other states will follow.

3:07	[Comment From Suavv Magazine] Exactly! Drug addiction is a disease! We have to keep our kids away from this and keep our communities safe. If you say youre not going to sell that on my block, thats a step

3:08	[Comment From drb] does the reform act address individuals who are already serving sentences?

3:08	[Comment From FreezRokSki] Russ, How can we help in other states? (resident of Las Vegas NV)

3:08

globalmdEUCE: i can dig that. I guess my main concern is the preparation should the governor and senate make this bill a law. I can see how it could easily lead to further deterioration of our communities if the focus on rehab and prevention (drug sale eradication??) is not thorough. One step at a time i know....but surely ya feel me?

3:09	Russell Simmons: We also want to make one thing clear -- if someone who committed a violent crime while using or selling drugs is convicted, they will not see any change in their sentence..we are talking about non-violent offenders

3:10	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] I have a son who is in Federal Prison in Terre Haute, Indiana. They gave him Life for Drug Sales. What's with the FAMM project? And the reduction of Mandatory Minimums?

3:10	[Comment From Suavv Magazine] Understand this, the law says that the penalty of 2 ounces of heroine, morphine, cocaine, or marijuana or for possessing 4 ounces of the same will do a MINIMUM of 15 years to LIFE.....MINIMUM

3:11

Dr. Ben Chavis: This issue is not about selling drugs. Laws like the Rockefeller Drug Laws make criminals of people who are not criminals and then their families and communities are put into greater jeopardy. In other words the injustices of the Rockefeller Drug Laws spead more injustices for the unjustly incarcerated and their family members who also have been victimized. The role of the Hip-Hop Summit Action Network is to raise public awareness about this injustice and to pull the sheets off from all those legislators who have refused to deal with this for more than 3 decades. HSAN uses the best of hip-hop culture to raise the public's consciousness about this systematice injustice. That is why we sponsored the largest rally in US history at the NYC City Hall where 50 Cents, Jay Z, Mariah Carey, Diddy, Jim Jones, Busta Rhymes, Wyclif and many others led the protest by raising their eloquent voices.

3:11	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] Even if an "Informant" falsely claims to have made a purchase?

3:11	Russell Simmons: To drb -- this bill will give the opportunity for anyone convicted of a non-violent drug offense to be eligble to resentencing

3:13	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] To RS - - This alone can cause a drastic decrease in the economic spending.

3:13	globalmdEUCE: Laws like this are in place because of OUR own alienation of OUR people.....and yet I'm all for it. OUR fight in Compton is a different branch of the same beast. My thoughts and prayers are with the leaders of this movement. Much luv, respect and continued victories.

3:15

Dr. Ben Chavis: This bill will and should effectively get rid of the Rockefeller Drug Laws in NY, but also will set a more effective national stage to get rid of all "Mandadory Minimum Sentencing Laws" for non-violent drug offenses throughout the United States. It started in NY more than 3 decades ago, and now it is time for NY to lead the way in ending this repressive situation.

3:15	[Comment From Suavv Magazine] so lets say it again, if you are a user of drugs and you are caught with 4 ounces of that drug on your stroll back home....15 YEARS

3:15	Russell Simmons: To Maxine Lewis -- We are sorry to hear about your son. If we can get this done in NY, we can move to a national campaign. We must reform state by state as well as federal laws. These laws are archaic and are too costly in this economic downturn.

3:16	[Comment From Suavv Magazine] The problem is you go to prison at 19 years old. You serve a 15 year senence. do the math you come out at 34. what do you know? CRIME. SO what do you do? CRIME

3:16	[Comment From NickD radio City] Russell what can i do in my state or North Carolina to help with the cause

3:17	ShakGriff: Dr.Chavis is correct these laws, if anything, create more problems for families than it solves them.

3:17	globalmdEUCE: At 19 our children should be knowing enough to not do crime and fall victim to the unjust laws.

3:17	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] Are we prepared to help those who are released not to return. A sort of delayed Prevention?

3:17	[Comment From NickD radio City] of north carolina sorry for the typo

3:17	[Comment From Mack of Sound-Savvy] That's crazy to sentence someone who commits a non-violent act without malicious intent to the same amount of time as someone who maliciously murders another human being.

3:17	[Comment From globalgrindiceprods] also private correctional facilities owners pockets growing..

3:18	globalmdEUCE: we should invest in private prisons

3:18	[Comment From Tiffany Janay] when these kids are hungry and don't have any other creative outlets or positive role models, they will do things that may not be the right thing because of a lack of...

3:19	[Comment From JustGrinding] Private prisons? should we really spend tax dollars on that? Not sure what an investment that would be..Please clarify

3:19	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] There is violence within the System - Gang Recruitment and Stabbings, etc. A person goes in one way and God knows what they end up becoming???

3:19	globalmdEUCE: what better way to ensure that the vicious cycle of community destruction is reversed/ended.

3:20

TVMAN: Russell what steps do you think should be taken to help our communities overcome selling and using? I think its noble to fight for a cause such as this but if an individual is released and continues to sell and destroy his own community then what do we do. Do we send them to college do we provide them with sustainable jobs? When you know better you do better and sadly a lot of us are not on the do better side

3:20	[Comment From Suavv Magazine] yeah thats smart lets build more jails to make room for more people to go into. How about we build more school, community centers, and homeless shelters.

3:20	ShakGriff: In most cases a person may get more time for drug offense than for murder. And the RDL is a direct result of that.

3:21	globalmdEUCE: Na'im Akbar once wrote 'that if we turned prisons into universities, that they would stop sending us there by the masses"

3:21	[Comment From Tiffany Janay] Good question TVMAN

3:22	[Comment From victorvigil] prevention people!

3:23

Russell Simmons: To TVMAN -- You make an excellent point. When it comes to this law, we need to make the change now. And when the change happens, the next step is expanding education, treatment and job training opportunities in communities struggling with drug addiction and poverty. However, we must look not just at the after effects...we have to re-invest in our communities..in education..in businesses...in after school programs...and definitely prevention.

3:23	[Comment From DJ Phoenix] I agree Suavv Magazine

3:23	[Comment From globalgrindiceprods] social change , no demand for the supply

3:23	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] YEAH!! PRISONS TO UNIVERSITIES!!!! BUT ON THE REAL - THERE ARE MANY SKILLED LABORERS IN PRISON, WHO, WITH HELP AND GUILDANCE, CAN START BUSINESSES ON THE OUTSIDE.

3:23

[Comment From DJ Brandi Garcia]
globalmdEUCE - we shouldnt invest in private prisons cause the ones that I have heard of actually abuse the fact that they are private and often times abuse the inmates and basically treat them like slaves. Especially here in Texas. There's not a lot of accountability in private institutions. That's scary!

3:23	globalmdEUCE: The spook who sat by the door was smart too. These laws and injustices were systematically introduced to our communities and are systematically upheld. We already have more shelters, etc etc than prisons. Yeat the numbers continue to skyrocket

3:23	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] RUSSELL, THANKS FOR THIS FORUM. I KNOW IT'S NOT OVER YET, BUT I WANTED TO GET THIS OUT THERE.

3:24	globalmdEUCE: WE meaning all of us. Not inclusive of them

3:24

Dr. Ben Chavis: Hip-Hop is about calling attention to the contradictions of poverty and injustice. I from North Carolina originally in response to NickD. NC like NY has a bad history of using prisons and judicial injustice to make a profit off of locking people up unjustly. But what is really being exposed now is that these injustices cost more money to keep people locked down in prison and contributes to both a "financial deficit" as welll as a "human deficit" for society at large. The Rockefeller Drug Laws were enacted during the last crazy day of the Nixon Administration's "Law and Order" campaign and the so-call "War on Drugs" that turned out to be a war on our communities. Millions of people have been impacted. Repealing the Rockefeller Drug Laws is an urgent necessity now!!

3:24

[Comment From Suavv Magazine]
TVMAN I disagree. YOu may know better but its a matter of situation. Most people that sell drugs dont want to sell drugs. You dont want to be on a corner risking your life for a little bit of money. You dont want to put your family in that kind of danger but when youre backed into that corner of hardship, its the most convenient, and quick way out. this is why the reform is important. you have to educate people so that they have the chance.

3:24	[Comment From Tiffany Janay] I agree Russell. In some of these neighborhoods, these kids have NO role models except for the dope boys and pimps. If no one is showing them the way, then they will.

3:25	[Comment From The Heir] does this have anything to do with the "crack vs powder" sentencing guide lines?

3:25	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] DR. BEN, NC IS WHERE MY SON WAS ARRESTED. HIS PUBLIC DEFENDER WAS NOT ON HIS SIDE - TRIED TO GET HIM TO COP A PLEA.

3:25	[Comment From Shine] Russell, So shouldn't we have a parallel effort that looks to start creating prevention programs while we fight RDL, so that when those sentences are reduced and our people start coming out of prison, we have outlets for them to go to.

3:27

[Comment From crackiswack]
i think that if the economy wasn't in the place it is in and the government did more to help the people of this country, folks wouldnt have to resort to selling drugs to make money... the government needs to focus on helping people and getting this country to a positive space, not sending more people to jail (not saying that those going to jail don't all deserve to be there, some do)

3:27	[Comment From drugdealersdaughter] I AM THE DAUGHTER OF A DRUG DEALER.....PEOPLE CAN BE REFORMED.

3:27	[Comment From Guest] @Maxine Lewis the PD is never on your side ever. They do not have the best interest of there client in mind never!

3:27	DJ Brandi Garcia: I agree with Shine... we should have programs set up and in place so that as soon as they get out they can transition into a job and a drugless life!

3:28	DJ Brandi Garcia: The biggest complaint I get from ppl as to why they go back to dealing drugs is that they cant get a job because of their criminal past. We need to help these people!

3:28

[Comment From Mack of Sound-Savvy]
I wish more of the hip-hop celebrities were involved and willing to fight for this because the problem I see is the contradiction of hip-hop. You still have artists out here who make it seem "cool" to have to sell drugs. If hip-hop is going to be in it, then we need to be unified.

3:28	[Comment From victorvigil] current programs need alot of reform and alot of money!

3:28	[Comment From Suavv Magazine] Exactly. Most ex-convicts turn back to crime because they cannot find a job that will help them support their families. How do we fix that?

3:28	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] I would like to request that I be a part of a FOLLOW UP Committee - to take this issue to a HIGHER level. YES WE CAN!!!

3:28	globalmdEUCE: invest in private prisons

3:29	globalmdEUCE: we don't need more celebrities, we need more men and women of one accord

3:29

[Comment From BlogXilla]
@DJ Brandi Garcia, it's more than just a job, it's a job that's going to provide them with the lifestyle that are comfortable with and i feel like that starts with education. And being able to learn. The problem is much deeper than just drugs and charges on a record. do you agree?

3:29	[Comment From Mack of Sound-Savvy] what good will that do globalmdeuce??

3:29	[Comment From Shine] Because if we are successful in these pursuits which we will be, when we allow our people to return to the streets and the same bad situations as someone mentioned earlier than the same human deficit and economic deficit because of these situations will occur.

3:30	[Comment From Mack of Sound-Savvy] Are celebrities not counted in the men and women of which you speak?? I say celebrities because more often than not these days, our youth turn to the influence of pop stars over their own parents.

3:30	globalmdEUCE: many in prisons are forgotten about once they go. somehow the community forgets that many of these ppl will one day come home.

3:30	[Comment From drb] does anyone think that by reforming the laws for non violent offenders, it will influence violent drug dealers to for go violence to avoid a tougher sentence?

3:30	[Comment From victorvigil] mindset is a hard thing to change, we must start with our youth!

3:30	[Comment From BlogXilla] @Mack Of Sound Savvy

3:30

Dr. Ben Chavis: To Maxine: What has happened to your son was not the exception but the regular set-up in NC and in other states as well. The theory then was the more people that are locked up the more the system of justice was working. The so-called "Criminal Justice System" turned out to be a "criminal" system itself. But change is now happening in America. Let all of us who care do more to make more change. Getting rid of the Rockefeller Drug Laws is another important step for real change.

3:31	globalmdEUCE: we have left their rehab in the hands of those who unfairly incarcerate them for far too long.

3:31	[Comment From crackiswack] @ dj brandi garcia: youre right, the government needs to create a program that helps former prisoners get back int othe work force

3:31	globalmdEUCE: then they come home and do the same ish and we are all shocked.

3:31	[Comment From Guest] I agree with Sound-Savvy, we need to have one unified message. 80 percent of rap is about drugs. some say how their life changed other still talk about how they are doing it.

3:31	[Comment From BlogXilla] I think that its not more so celebs but more less a positive strong role model that is needed. They don't have to be a celeb.

3:31

TVMAN: Suavv its a sad day in the black community when all we are good for to put food and clothes on our childrens back is to sell drugs. I guess for most that is their sad story a mother goes to another funeral and another mother visit her child a prison. Russ I will be happy to go across the country to help you change the mindset of youth....but we need to change this law right now..while these wallstreet coke heads get parole our brother and sisters are getting life it needs to stop

3:32	globalmdEUCE: yes the celebrities can be included in that. so long as they are men and women of the same accord, above all. who wants to see 50 stand up for something like this and then make records talkin' bout stuff waaaay more negative??? this has confused the hell out of our youth.

3:33	[Comment From Jewelsy!] Yea Madoff stole millions and he's chillin in the penthouse!

3:33

[Comment From Mack of Sound-Savvy]
I agree @ BlogXilla, but since this is an effort on behalf of hip-hop, more hip-hop leaders should be involved. Maybe I should have chosen the word 'leaders' over 'celebrities'. The point I'm making is the voices that reach our youth should be the voices speaking out against this... in unity.

3:33	[Comment From victorvigil] drug use needs to stop!

3:33	globalmdEUCE: drug use in ancient

3:33	[Comment From Suavv Magazine] TVMAN I agree. its a very sad day. Which is why the circumstances need to be changed.

3:34	Russell Simmons: Everyone is needed in this fight. We need to encourage our community to get involved no matter if you are a rapper, or not. We need everyone. This is what you can do right now: https://secure2.convio.net/dpa/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=304

3:34	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] Drugs were put in our communities way back when as a device to destroy us - and in some cases, they did. However, we are a resilent and determined race of people, but we need to be encouraged and supported by those in positions.

3:34	[Comment From demi (baltimore, md)] excuse me, i am a little late getting here but i am an ex-con thay has been released and off of parole for the last ten (10) years. my first ?? is : how in the hell can we keep our youth from getting caught up in this "hell" the they today glorify??

3:34	[Comment From Suavv Magazine] well youth shouldnt be listening to 50 cent until the parents have explained that this is an entertainment industry not learn your life from rap

3:34	globalmdEUCE: that is not realistic

3:34	[Comment From Shine] @sound-savvy the children listen to the celebrities but i work with children and when they have after school programming with strong leaders who are in their face, in their community, it goes a long way.

3:35	[Comment From Jewelsy!] what is not realistic @ globalmedeuce?

3:35	[Comment From victorvigil] education!!!

3:35	globalmdEUCE: not listening to fiddy for our youth

3:35	globalmdEUCE: WE uphold celebrities as leaders and accomplished ppl

3:35	[Comment From Mack of Sound-Savvy] While I agree with you Suavv, that's not likely to happen. So what do we do as a community? focus on changing the message...

3:35	[Comment From demi (baltimore, md)] you and i both know that isnt fully true...... lets be honest about this

3:35	[Comment From Jewelsy!] @ Shine ur right about the after skool program leaders

3:36	[Comment From S.H.E] @Shine i have to agree because when i was invited to functions such as the black caucus upstae i was more interested in those positive men than any celebrity

3:37	[Comment From Couture] I think we should pay attention to what Russell Simmons has to say... he hasn't failed us yet.

3:37

[Comment From BlogXilla]
@Mack - It still needs to be someone who we can believe the messenger. Someone who would really want to change their life around. Or just get a rapper to really come out and say that this is entertainment and even tbough i rap hardcore it's still just a movie over a hot track i'm not shooting anyone. Jay-Z has done amazing things in regards to a national movement so it can be done. Real changes starts at the bottom with someone from the top. At the end of the day it's all about us.

3:37	[Comment From Suavv Magazine] globalmduece...Is Oprah not a celebrity and a positive community leader? Russell Simmons, Diddy, Beyonce, TI

3:37

[Comment From Mack of Sound-Savvy]
Shine... oh trust me. I completely agree... nothing can take the place of having a one-to-one positive role model right there in your life. My main point is that we can make the biggest difference if we're all on the same accord... all the way down. From the stages to the streets, we all need to have one voice.

3:37	[Comment From Kryptonian_Rage] I agree we give our celbrities too much power and they don't even care about how their messages effect our youth, they're more concerned about how much maney they're making a year!

3:37	[Comment From Jewelsy!] Russell is this really going to work?

3:37	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] I work as a substitute teacher in Day Care. I have noticed the lack of concerned by some of the other teachers. Is this a conspiracy? And, There's a program entitled: From Cradles to Prison - this needs looking into.

3:37	globalmdEUCE: positivity is not exclusive of contradiction which has caused much confusion in our youth

3:37

[Comment From Shine]
Withour creating a parallel program we are dooming our brothers and sisters. Is HSAN willing to start a campaign concurrent with this RDL one that will beging after school programs in the schools, saturday programs in the neighborhood so we can reach not only the youth but the 20 and up groups who are affected as well?

3:38	[Comment From BlogXilla] @Jewelsy -Of course it's going to work. The only thing that doesn't work is people who give up before they acheieve their goals.

3:38	[Comment From demi (baltimore, md)] afterschool programs!!!! in most cities the "hustlers" hold court right on some of the corners where these afterschool programs are....... russell, what can or will you do in the way of resources to make these problems decline??

3:38	[Comment From Shine] @ mack i agree

3:38

[Comment From S.H.E]
@Blogxilla even if a rapper does come out and say that its for entertainment purposes these children just tur around and call him a sell out, they'll turn around and idolize another rapper whose rapping about negativity in his music. Thats why someone said they need to come together "In One Accord" earlier

3:39	[Comment From S.H.E] Jay-Z cant do it alone

3:39	[Comment From victorvigil] Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds

3:39	[Comment From Suavv Magazine] thats the problem. you cant put it on the rapper to make these things clear. we need to make sure that our children understand what they are listening to before they get the CD.

3:39	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] Victorvigil - who's quote was that?

3:40	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] No commitments right now!!!!

3:40	globalmdEUCE: WE must put it on everbody who ever says they are in accord with US

3:40	[Comment From Suavv Magazine] Remember Self -Destruction?

3:40	[Comment From victorvigil] Albert Einstein

3:40	globalmdEUCE: and all in the same gang?

3:40	[Comment From Suavv Magazine] They put out there that things need to stop

3:41	Russell Simmons: I believe we can do this. I have been invested in this since 2003 -- almost 6 years, because I believer we can make this happen. And we will make it happen. But, it cannot just be celebrities speaking up, it needs to be everyone.

3:41	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] THANK YOU!!! ^ A.E.

3:41	globalmdEUCE: anything can be done

3:41

Dr. Ben Chavis: Remember Russell Simmons and I were attacked because the Hip-Hop Summit dared to mobilize public opinion about this, but we refused to surrender. If fact HSAN put up a costly fight not just for ourselves or not just for our own non-profit organization. We all learned from this struggle that is still going on. We are building a movement. In life, you learn that if you give of yourself to help others, then that giving is not in vain. Tthe playa haters never win in the end. Thank God for Global Grind providing this forum so that others can express themselves. I thank Jim Jones for doing that video and soundtrack recording. Let's keep this forum going until the politicians in Albany, Raleigh, Washington, DC and every other capital city take the proper steps to end these injusties asap.

3:41	[Comment From Suavv Magazine] you have public enemy still making cd's but instead you think its cute that your baby knows how to do the soldier boy

3:41	[Comment From Mack of Sound-Savvy] THANK YOU GLOBALMDEUCE!!! This is an EVERYONE problem. Not just rappers, not just celebs. EVERYONE. But what's wrong with employing some more voices of influence?

3:41	[Comment From 100Stax.com] Has anyone ever read "Pro-Evo"

3:41	[Comment From Kryptonian_Rage] @ Suavv Magazine, I agree 100% We as parents need to do our part as well, it's easy to point the finger at celebrities and the media but this type of education should start at HOME!

3:41	globalmdEUCE: who needs celebrity voices that are not in accord with the mission?

3:42	globalmdEUCE: screw them and enlist those who are

3:42	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] I'm not a celebrity - but my sincerity is STRONG!!!!

3:42	[Comment From Jewelsy!] I don't know if ppl in the hood get how massive this is

3:42	[Comment From S.H.E] AGREED @ GlobalmdEUCE

3:42

[Comment From BlogXilla]
@She - I doubt that for the simple fact that they love DiNero, and Wrestling... it's not about being real.. anymore it's about telling the truth the truth can go along way. Do you honestly think people believe that Jay-Z is still pushing drugs? Nope. The kids are smarter than they appear. They love the Wire but they know it doesnt go down like that.

3:43	[Comment From globalgrindiceprods] who takes on such a title ? CELEBrity

3:43

[Comment From Mack of Sound-Savvy]
but that goes back to the point made by Suavv... we'd have more people on accord with the mission if people knew about it. I just learned about the Rockefeller Drug laws today and I'm in line to make a difference nationwide. All it takes is a little awareness first...

3:43	[Comment From BlogXilla] besides its all about Education anyway. With education all things are possible.

3:43	globalmdEUCE: the word celebrity was used earlier.......ya know whats meant

3:43	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] BET broadcasts so many prison stories - and I watch - to get an idea of what my SON is going through.

3:43	[Comment From Suavv Magazine] celebrities build their strength off of their fans. politicians come to you to get their vote. if they are not doing what they need to do dont vote for them. This is where your power to vote makes a difference. we need to stay politically sound and educated

3:43	[Comment From Jewelsy!] @blogxilla

3:43	globalmdEUCE: sound savvy....exactly

3:43	[Comment From victorvigil] What are all of you going to do to change this!

3:43	ShakGriff: Education is the key.

3:44	globalmdEUCE: is it not a huge failure that you just learned about it??/

3:44	[Comment From BlogXilla] The Rockefellla Drug laws are so unfair it's a shame! Same with the Rico lawasthey put this stuff in to trap people .

3:44

DJ Brandi Garcia: I agree Blogxilla! It does take more than just a job... That is a good starting point though. The communities themselves are very important too. It's about every day people caring, not just about celebrities. I think its great to have celebs use their influence to bring awareness but ultimately it takes a group of people, celebs along with the average joe, to come together as a powerful combined voice to make a change!

3:44

[Comment From The Heir]
changing the law is needed. but African Americans still don't have basic rights as citizen's in the United States. i have 100% exposed the practice of police filing false reports against citizens of corlor and have been arrested for it. has jesse come yelled for me has Rev. Al spoken about this injustice. im really out here fighting for our civil right . not just looking for media spot light. http://freedomfighterradio.net/?p=4929 <----the civil rights struggle continues

3:44	[Comment From 100Stax.com] I think these rappers need to quit pushing falsehoods and speak more more on the effects of the life they lived and use their star power to mobilize the culture

3:44	[Comment From Mack of Sound-Savvy] That's my point GlobalmdEUCE...

3:44	[Comment From Suavv Magazine] Suavv magazine already has a youth Program in the works

3:44	[Comment From Ryan] Download the "American Drug War" mixtape @ MixSyndicate.com!

3:45	globalmdEUCE: no one thinks jayz is still selling drugs. but guess what? some kid out there thinks that to be as successful as jayz he's gonna have to sell drugs. just to get a rep.

3:45	[Comment From NinoBrown] what i dont get, is how the hsan has jim jones doing a video for the campaign, but yet in his music on the regular, he's rapping about selling drugs? Example: Birds Flyin' in

3:45	[Comment From Shine] So Brother Chavis, Bro Simmons, I'm still waiting to hear more about a concurrent campaign. Getting people lesser sentences with no alternatives when they come home will not work.

3:45	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] EDUCATION, DETERMINATION, STICK-TO-IT-NESS. I'M NOT GIVING UP ON MY SON OR ANYONE ELSE'S CHILD.

3:46	[Comment From Shine] @blogxilla let's not forget that no one puts drugs in your hands, the laws are unjust but accountability is needed for the people as well and or programs that deter.

3:46	[Comment From S.H.E] sure wont @shine

3:46	[Comment From Suavv Magazine] and that is the kid that you need to show that he doenst need to do that. even Jaz said i did this so that you wont have to. go throuhg his cd's he tells you how to get away from that life and the losses that he took.

3:46	[Comment From Jewelsy!] Why is Jim Jones the spokesperson for this?

3:46	[Comment From BlogXilla] @Globalmduece the reason kids think that is again they have no real education or guidance. No sense of what the world is really about and all it takes to change that is a strong role model in their life.

3:46	[Comment From BlogXilla] that way of thinking is not the norm I refuse to believe that they sell drugs because they feel like they are not good enough or able to do anything else. It's a hard struggle but its totally doable

3:47	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] He just made a C.D./VIDEO.

3:47	[Comment From Suavv Magazine] who said jim jones was a spokes person?

3:47	globalmdEUCE: i feel you. blogxilla

3:47	[Comment From Ryan] The real Ricky Ross is getting out of prison this month, and he's about to put the game on check.

3:47

[Comment From Mack of Sound-Savvy]
Jewelsy... maybe cause no one else wanted to step up. Do you see the problem with that?? I can think of a few others that could have and should have stepped up. Maybe it's ignorance to the topic, maybe it's lack of caring... either way, it's a problem, especially if hip-hop hopes to present a unified front

3:47	[Comment From Ryan] Check out the trailer for Ricky Ross's new reality show here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMxlDMVKJ4w

3:47	globalmdEUCE: ricky ross will get out and go underground. just like geronimo

3:47	[Comment From Jewelsy!] @Blogxilla I think ppl feel disenfranchised and stagnant and see that as a feasible option to buy diapers and food

3:47	[Comment From NinoBrown] jim even has the song "drug dealer" over the diva beat http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2z-3U-C42s

3:48	[Comment From Guest] im sad u guys are talking abotu rick ross

3:48	[Comment From 100Stax.com] This is all a PLOY to keep the BLACK MALE in a substandard ineffective position. do you all not understand?

3:48	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] Tomorrow there will be buses going to Albany, NY concerning the DTR. Check with the Correctional Association.

3:48	globalmdEUCE: somebody tell me why "positive rap" never became as popular as "gangsta rap"

3:48	[Comment From veedee_ahh] theres better to be chatted about

3:48	[Comment From BlogXilla] sure they need to be accounablty but at the same time do we look at WHY people do stuff? Once we find out the why, we can then change it. It's like a lab rat first they cause the condition and then they fix it... they know the why and the what and then makei t right.

3:48

Dr. Ben Chavis: NY Governor Patterson and State Senator Malcolm Smith need to hear from you asap. They are about to make a decision today. Let these leaders (who are from our community) know how you feel about this. More steps need to taken now to end the injustices of the Rockefeller Drug Laws. Let's stay focused.

3:48	[Comment From Mack of Sound-Savvy] Guest... not Rick Ross the rapper... the REAL Ricky Ross

3:49	[Comment From thacomputa] Is Russell Simmons here?

3:49	globalmdEUCE: i know. i hope he go underground and don't do a reality show

3:49	[Comment From veedee_ahh] my fault...just jumped in...

3:49	[Comment From 100Stax.com] @globalmduece peep the last message

3:49	globalmdEUCE: which one

3:49	Russell Simmons: ok. Gotta go to yoga! Thank you for your time. And let's make this happen.

3:50	Russell Simmons: great discussion!

3:50	[Comment From veedee_ahh] what does russell simmons think about sri lanka?

3:50	[Comment From 100Stax.com] mine

3:50	[Comment From veedee_ahh] where is RS btw.....

3:50	[Comment From Suavv Magazine] Russell and Dr. Chavis, I have a question. How do you face those that will say that all you are doing is helping criminals thrive?

3:50	[Comment From victorvigil] Remember people what you focus on you will get more of, Change your mindset and make thing happen. talk is cheap!!!!

3:50

[Comment From Monte]
As a white boy watching you all talk about this, I have an observation. I agree that the "black community" does suffer more in the inner cities, but drugs do not know race. While i got on to this chat to see how and what i could do out in AZ. I felt excluded from this converstaion because i am not African american. I think that the rap community should reach out to make it everybody's battle, regarless of race. There are groups that support your point of view and with Russell's ability to get a celbrity influence you could create an even bigger movement that is embraced universally. Just a thought

3:50	globalmdEUCE: yeah you answered the question before i finished typing it

3:50	[Comment From BlogXilla] Rick Ross is the perfect example if he would have said yes I was a CO from jump he'd still have a career

3:50	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] Dr. Ben Chavis & R.S. Is there a contact person and number for follow-up?

3:50	[Comment From globalgrindiceprods] let's strong up our brothers and sisters still struggling with addiction

3:50	Mack of Sound-Savvy: Monte... I don't see where this was made into a black thing...

3:50	[Comment From Shine] I'm out, anyone who wants to contact me hit me up at success.hiphop@gmail.com It's deeper than one session we need to start mobilizing even via the internet on how we can help change our communities.

3:51	BlogXilla: Russell Simmons has left the chat lol

3:51	[Comment From globalgrindiceprods] thanks Russell

3:51	[Comment From veedee_ahh] changing mindset is key

3:51	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] How can I get a copy of this transcript?

3:51	Russell Simmons: Go to drugpolicy.org and join their movement. We support it!

3:51	TVMAN: great discussion

3:51	globalmdEUCE: BEWARE of those with celebrity who say they are in accord with the people.......for they are usually in accord with making more money, gaining more celebrity, etc.

3:51	BlogXilla: Great topic thanks for having it.

3:51	Mack of Sound-Savvy: don't let the discussion end here though... get active folks

3:51	Dr. Ben Chavis: The discussion continues. Thanks Russell. Let's get the Govennor and the State Senator on in the next forum. Thanks Global Grind.

3:51	ShakGriff: we got a lot done today

3:51	Mack of Sound-Savvy: Dr. Chavis, you out too?

3:51	100Stax.com: Blacks have always been persecuted for no reason seemingly, the reason we are so sought after yet persecuted is because we are the original man

3:52	[Comment From veedee_ahh] i know yo

3:52	[Comment From S.H.E] @Dr. Ben Chavis we took a bunch of children from an organization to speak to Senator Malcolm smith. they sat in his office and ate cookies with him and expressed this to him years ago. These kids have BEEN staying focused but their starting to feel like no ones listening ....

3:52	globalmdEUCE: 100stax..........many

3:52	[Comment From NinoBrown] good day to you russell

3:52	[Comment From veedee_ahh] wow my im loads way too slow

3:52	[Comment From Ryan] Russell is THE MAN! Go do your yoga bro.

3:52	[Comment From veedee_ahh] globalmdeuce= right

3:52	[Comment From Jewelsy!] I like this...lets do it again!

3:52	[Comment From The Heir] @Shine get a video camera and hold police accountable..

3:52	[Comment From victorvigil] Thank you

3:52	[Comment From Maxine Lewis] I would appreciate an advance notice of the next forum. I want to be present!

3:52	Mack of Sound-Savvy: Monte... this is a call to action to end the unjust sentencing... across the board. Hip-hop is taking a stance, but it doesn't exclude whites or any other race.

3:52	globalmdEUCE: blacks in a position to truly push that message will not

3:52	globalmdEUCE: they would lose too much money and be poor again like us ;)

3:53	100Stax.com: we need to just form our own country withing the US

3:53	Global Grind: Thanks for joining us everyone this was great! We will be posting a transcript of this discussion very soon so check back. Remember, you can still continue this discussion in the "comments" area below. Keep grindin' yall!