Petition to Preserve True Origins of Breakdancing in the Olympics
In a powerful move to protect the legacy of Foundational Black American (FBA) culture, a petition has been launched on Change.org to demand the accurate representation of breakdancing's origins in the Olympic Games. The petition, which urgently calls for signatures, has gained significant attention and is quickly garnering support.
Historical Erasure and Cultural Appropriation Breakdancing, an integral element of hip-hop culture, emerged in the 1970s as a form of expression for Foundational Black Americans. Despite its deep roots in Black communities, there is growing concern that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) is rewriting this history by downplaying the contributions of Black Americans while highlighting other influences.
"My problem isn't with the event or the participation of other races—I’m excited to see everyone compete," says Mike Baggz, the creator of the petition. "My issue is with the Olympics for excluding recognition of people like Lauree Myers, also known as Trixie, the first breakdancer."
Acknowledging the True Pioneers The petition emphasizes the importance of recognizing pioneers like Lauree Myers aka Trixie, who is credited as the first breakdancer. Her contributions, along with those of many other Foundational Black Americans, are vital to the history of breakdancing. The documentary "Microphone Check" also explores the creation of hip-hop by interviewing early pioneers from the 1970s, further underscoring the significant role of Black Americans in this cultural movement.
"My issue isn’t the lack of FBA dancers; I encourage all races to participate," Baggz continues. "My issue is with the Olympics' narrative. Not honoring our founders and ignoring pioneers like Trixie, the creator of breakdancing, is disingenuous and irresponsible to the culture."
Demands: The petition outlines clear demands to the IOC:
1. Correct Historical Representation: Accurately credit Foundational Black Americans as the originators of breakdancing and hip-hop culture in all official materials and communications.
2. Educational Initiatives: Develop and promote educational initiatives that inform the public about the true origins and history of breakdancing and hip-hop, highlighting the contributions of Black Americans.
3. Honoring the Pioneers: Official recognition and honoring of individuals like Lauree Myers aka Trixie and other Foundational Black American pioneers in Olympic ceremonies and materials.
Call to Action This petition is a rallying cry to bring shame to the Olympics until the true history is acknowledged and celebrated. The petition stresses the importance of immediate action and the necessity of gathering as many signatures as possible to amplify this cause. If these demands are not met, there will be organized protests and campaigns to ensure the world knows the true origins of breakdancing and hip-hop culture.
"My issue isn’t the lack of FBA dancers; I encourage all races to participate. My issue is with the Olympics' narrative. Not honoring our founders and ignoring pioneers like Trixie, the creator of breakdancing, is disingenuous and irresponsible to the culture," reiterates Baggz in a series of tweets."
Join Us in Demanding Justice
Join us in demanding justice and recognition for our cultural heritage. Tag the IOC with this petition and our grievance:
X, Instagram & Facebook:
We need your signatures to make a difference. Stand with us in solidarity to protect and honor our cultural heritage. Together, we can ensure that the true origins of breakdancing and hip-hop culture are preserved and celebrated.