On February 18, 2012, the Big Kidz Foundation celebrated Black History Month with a breakfast Reception at the Atlanta’s historic APEX Museum. The Big Kidz Foundation was successful in their goal to bring consciousness to the community about Black history, self-pride and culturally diversity. Guest received a private tour of the Museum-“Where Every Month is Black History Month”. More than 150 guests attended this private reception from Atlanta’s civic, business, and social communities including Alisha Thomas Morgan, Georgia House of Representatives (District 39). Mrs. Morgan made history at age 23, by becoming the first African-American to represent Cobb County. Founder, Antwan “Big Boi” Patton, encouraged youth to make good choices. “I want young people to know that what they do today can put them in a position to make History tomorrow” stated Big Boi.
Grammy award-winning, politically charged rapper Michael “Killer Mike” Render delivered moving speech encouraging guests to support their communities and exclaiming that “Our history is world history.” Supporters were also entertained by Big Kidz Foundation youth performers as they did dance tributes in celebration of Black History.
Following the reception the Black History experienced continued for students over 40 youth ages 14- 18, from several Atlanta area schools as they set out on a journey to explore their heritage in Birmingham, Alabama. “As a part of our Big Moves program, each year we take a group of deserving students on a “Heritage Tour”, this is an effort to provide them with exposure and an opportunity to teach them more about their culture” says Jennifer Lester, Executive Director of Big Kidz Foundation. This year students visited Birmingham’s historic landmarks including the Civil Rights Institute, Kelly Ingram Park and 16th Street Baptist Church. Sponsor, Microsoft Store provided gift bags for each student filled with items to help document their experience.
About The Big Kidz Foundation:
The Big Kidz Foundation, the philanthropic vision of Outkast member Antwan “Big Boi” Patton, is an effort to take education and knowledge to another dimension. Established in 2006, with a firm belief that cultural exposure, musical and literary expressions, and the invaluable experiences of travel, makes for a well-rounded person, and solidifies the result of the mission. Big Boi of the Grammy Award winning duo Outkast, has had a global impact on the music business and is recognized for the success of this groups originality and non-traditional creativity. For more information, please visit: www.bigkidzfoundation.org.
