About me:

The first ever 509 Freestyle Battle was born out of frustration. In fact, it is the brainchild of Carolyn, Lala and Nena of the Lower Yakima Valley... there was a need to empower artist, youth, visionaries... and felt that the most effective way was to promote self empowerment was via the hip hop movement. It wasn't until we began to organize for this event that we seen the real need to do it. Not just for one night... but for always... As raza activist from the start :) this was just the right move... call it beginners luck, but things just fell into place for us... and slowly we fell for not only the culture, but the people and the purpose... not just an organizing and entertainment viewpoint... There is definately a need to unite artist in the Valley... youth incarceration is through the roof. Art shouldn't be a crime... Our purpose is to unite through art... educate through music... inspire with our creativity. I believe why our circles and projects work so well is because the enviroment is female run :) and RESPECT means everything. There is a documentary about Grafikeros underway. We want everyone to fall in love with graffiti... art.. 2nd Annual 509 Freestyle Battle is in the planning stages... anyone encouraged to particiapate and serve on the planning committee should contact us... yeah, just like that :) Thanks for the love... this is for you 509! The 1st Annual 509 Freestyle Battle is the brainchild of Carolyn, Lala and Nena of the Lower Yakima Valley (Washington). It has expanded and we now work with other community projects in the Valley. We are currently in the planning stages for the 2nd Annual 509 Freestyle Battle. Encouraging creativity, peer-mentorship, unique styles--