RADIO PERSONALITY & COMMUNITY ADVOCATE PAPA KEITH’S ANNUAL PEOPLE MATTER FEST WAS HELD ON SUN AND PROVED TO BE A SUCCESSFUL AND IMPACTFUL EVENT
Since 2017, 103.5 The Beat’s host, Papa Keith’s annual gun-violence awareness hip-hop festival, People Matter Fest [PMF] has made an impact in the community. Produced through his nonprofit Papa Keith 4 People Matter (PK4PM) Foundation and in partnership with Miami Dade County Chairman Oliver G. Gilbert, III, the rain didn’t stop the festival which took place on Sunday, March 24, from 12 noon to 7 pm at Ives Estate Park (20901 NE 16th Ave, Miami, FL 33179). A press conference kicked off the weekend on Friday, March 22 at Ives Estate Park at 10 am. People Matter Fest was a day of music, family fun, and, most importantly, advocacy. The county-acclaimed 24-hour ceasefire campaign rallied Miami-Dade to refrain from gun use for the day. The ceasefire started on March 23rd at 7 pm and remained throughout the festival, which ended on Sunday, March 24th at 7 pm.
The 24-Hour Ceasefire Campaign was an initiative organized by Papa Keith People Matter (PK4PM), a nonprofit foundation established by a seasoned radio personality and entrepreneur. PK4PM aimed to empower communities by providing valuable resources through events that leveraged Hip-Hop culture to attract young individuals. Additionally, the foundation offered Millennials and Gen Z youth a platform to express themselves through art, music, entrepreneurship, and activism mediums.
“In a world often marred by division and discord, it was important that we united, elevated, and advocated for one another,” said Papa Keith. “The People Matter Fest and 24-Hour Ceasefire Weekend embodied the spirit of collective empowerment and resilience. Together, we had the power to effectuate meaningful change and create a future where every voice was heard, and every life mattered.” “I was proud to support the People Matter Fest and the 24-hour cease-fire campaign,” said Miami-Dade County Chairman Oliver G. Gilbert, III. “In a county as diverse as ours, unity was our strength, and this event exemplified our shared commitment to fostering a community where everyone was valued. I urged all Residents to join us in promoting peace, understanding, and solidarity during the 24-hour cease-fire campaign. Together, we could create a safer, more compassionate Miami-Dade County.” Romania Dukes, a fearless advocate and the driving force behind Mothers Fighting for Justice, tragically lost her son, De’Michael, to the senseless violence of guns in 2014. Despite her profound sorrow, she emerged as a beacon of strength, supporting mothers enduring parallel tragedies. “I would not stand idly by as more mothers endured the same pain,” Romania asserted. “Our collective voices had to reverberate throughout every corner of our community, advocating for peace. It was time to relinquish firearms and reclaim our neighborhoods.”
Stood with us in this crucial rallying cry. Together, we could construct a safer future for all. Made your mess your message; made your pain your purpose because the pain had no expiration date,” said Romania. “The People Matter Fest and the 24-hour cease-fire campaign exemplified the strength found in unity and community involvement. In our wonderfully diverse county, we had to unite to advocate for peace and solidarity. By championing such initiatives, we paid homage to those lost to senseless violence and charted a course toward a safer, more empathetic Miami-Dade County,” said Miami-Dade County Commissioner Keon Hardemon (District 3).
Utilizing Papa Keith’s influence and visibility, PK4PM showcased the talents of these demographics through its events and Papa Keith’s radio program, which aired on the popular 103.5 The Beat radio station Monday through Saturday. This platform allowed PK4PM to effectively engage with and serve its target Millennial and Gen Z demographics.
Encouraging attendees at the People Matter Fest to vote in that election year was crucial as it empowered individuals to have a direct impact on shaping their communities. By participating in the electoral process, attendees could amplify their voices and ensure that those in positions of power heard their concerns. Every vote cast at the People Matter Fest represented a step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society. “We were excited to partner with this event that connected with our young adults, and we looked forward to engaging them in voting.” Jazmyn Walcott, Communications Director-Just Vote Period.
Artist performances included Grammy-nominated Hip-Hop Star, Offset, Bossman DLow, Major Nine, Ace Hood, Ice Berg, Trick Daddy, Uncle Luke, Skilla Baby, Mellow Rackz, I Candy, Frank Kastle, and Mike Smiff to name a few. 2024 Sponsors Included: 103.5 The Beat Miami, Just Vote Period, The Carrie Meek Foundation, Miami-Dade Chairman Oliver G. Gilbert, III, Miami-Dade County Office of Neighborhood Safety, Attorney Big Al from 1-800-HURT-1-2-3, Miami-Dade Commissioner Keon Hardemon- District 3, Commissioner Kionne McGhee- District, Commissioner Marleine Bastien- District 2, Miami-Dade County School Board Member Dr. Steve Gallon III- District 1, Miami-Dade College, The Children’s Trust, Dunkin Donuts, ¡Entérate! Marivi & Sara, and FRRC.
For more information visit: https://www.peoplematterfest.com
