Dear Imani

Dear Imani,

First and foremost, I must apologize. Until I read the back cover, I did not know you were a woman. I am disappointed in myself for assuming you were male.

Your relevant commentary and analysis on hip hop and it’s connection to and origin in Black American culture is unparalleled. I have heard a similar narrative but never in your unique perspective.

Your statement that one’s analysis and interpretation of hip hop music is a direct result of one’s own personal narrative and subsequent experience and authority is spot on. Coming from my background and privilege, I, too, respond to the rhythmic structure in hip hop music, drawn to it when the beat gets my body movin rather than my soul. While I can try to sympathize with the black experience, it is one that I will never be able to empathize with. While I belt along to the catchy tunes on Nicki Minaj, Beyoncé, Chance, and other black artists, I cannot begin to understand the complete meaning and gravity woven between the poetry of their words.

My narrative is one of white experience and privilege. I want to be able to be an ally to the black community without inserting myself and overstepping and you’ve shown me that that means knowing your place in the movement. 

Camille