May 13th 2024.
Jamila Sams is not your average educator. She has a unique background as a former teacher, a lover of Hip-Hop, and a businesswoman. Her passion for both education and music has led her to found We Do It For The Culture, a program that aims to help students develop Social Emotional Learning skills through Hip-Hop-based curriculum. Sams believes that this approach can engage students in a way that goes beyond traditional academics.
In an interview with BLACK ENTERPRISE, Sams shared her mission, processes, and motivation for starting We Do It For The Culture. When asked about the reason for leaving the traditional school system, she shared that her experience echoes that of many educators across the country. As an assistant principal at a turnaround school, she was faced with many challenges and wanted to elevate the consciousness of her students and parents. However, she found it difficult to overcome the barriers and layers of what she calls "The Miseducation." This led to burnout and ultimately, her decision to step out of traditional education.
Sams, who is considered a part of Generation X, has a deep love for Hip-Hop. However, she recognizes that the culture has changed, especially with the rise of Gen Z. While early Hip-Hop celebrated creativity and innovation, critics argue that the current popular rap music often perpetuates negative stereotypes. Sams believes that despite these changes, it is possible to use the essence of Hip-Hop to help students learn and grow. She suggests having discussions about the messages in popular songs and using them as a lens to explore topics such as civic action and mental health.
Through We Do It For The Culture, Sams has partnered with institutions like the National Urban League and Big Brother Big Sisters to extend the program's reach beyond traditional schools. She invites schools of all demographics to join, as she believes that Hip-Hop is a universal culture that can be found in all communities. The program has seen success in various states, and Sams hopes to continue expanding and customizing the curriculum to address specific issues and topics in different regions.
One unique aspect of We Do It For The Culture is that it offers a free one-year subscription. When asked about this decision, Sams explains that she believes the culture should be accessible to all and that the lessons and activities can help teachers better engage with their students. She also emphasizes the importance of school districts and teachers being on board with the program for it to yield successful results.
Moving forward, Sams hopes to use the program to raise awareness about issues and communities that are often overlooked or undervalued. She envisions customizing the curriculum to address specific topics and experiences in different geographic locations. With her dedication and passion for using Hip-Hop as a tool for education and growth, Sams is making a positive impact in the lives of students across the country. And as homeschooling becomes increasingly popular, programs like We Do It For The Culture may become even more relevant and necessary.
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