DIMA applauds Congressional resolution celebrating hip-hop

“Hip-hop has been a powerful force for storytelling and cultural expression since its origins in the Bronx, New York. Today, it stands as a defining pillar of American culture and one of the most streamed genres worldwide. We’re proud that streaming empowers hip-hop artists to share their voices and creativity with a global audience. We welcome the introduction of this resolution to recognize Hip-Hop Celebration Day, Hip-Hop Recognition Month, and Hip-Hop History Month.”

– Graham Davies, President and CEO, Digital Media Association (DIMA)

DIMA is glad to support this resolution, introduced by Senators Schumer and Cassidy, and Rep. Kamlager-Dove, to recognize and celebrate the legacy and ongoing impact of hip-hop.

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Leader Schumer Introduces Bipartisan Legislation Celebrating Hip-Hop

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Jasmine Harris (Schumer), jasmine_harris@schumer.senate.gov

NEW YORK, NY – Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) introduced a bicameral, bicoastal resolution to recognize August 11, 2025 as “Hip Hop Celebration Day,” August 2025 as “Hip Hop Recognition Month,” and November 2025 as “Hip Hop History Month.” Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and music industry leaders released the following statements:

“In 1973, a back-to-school party in the Bronx spontaneously gave birth to hip-hop, a Big Bang moment in music that launched a movement that has spread all around the world and revolutionized American culture,” said Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer. “Hip-hop became the voice of the marginalized, a poetic and hard-driving medium of truth-telling and pent up expression, an inimical part of the soundtrack to American life, and a driving force of creativity and joy and empowerment across the country.”

Leader Schumer continued, “As a proud New Yorker, I was honored to work arm-in arm with some of hip-hop’s giants like my friends KRS1 and DJ Kool Herc to ensure the birthplace, 1520 Sedgwick Ave, was preserved and celebrated. And now I am proud to commemorate the 52nd anniversary of hip hop, to designate August 11th as ‘Hip Hop Celebration Day,’ the month of August as ‘Hip Hop Recognition Month’ and the month of November as ‘Hip Hop History Month.’”

Sony Music said, “Sony Music thanks Senators Chuck Schumer and Bill Cassidy for recognizing and honoring hip hop’s extraordinary history and enduring legacy. Hip hop has always been more than music—it is an American cultural movement that has provided a soundtrack to social change. It is a powerful form of creative expression here in the U.S. and around the globe. Sony Music is proud to support this resolution and the continued impact of hip hop worldwide.”

Warner Music Group commented, “We applaud Senator Schumer and Senator Cassidy for recognizing hip hop’s groundbreaking impact with this wonderful series of celebrations. The music has not only influenced everything from fashion to art to language, but it has often provided a potent voice that raises public awareness of important societal issues. At Warner Music Group, we are proud to have helped give rise to artists who’ve shaped hip-hop’s evolution — elevating culture, championing originality, and defining the sound of generations.”

Graham Davies, President and CEO, Digital Media Association (DIMA) said, “Hip-hop has been a powerful force for storytelling and cultural expression since its origins in the Bronx, New York. Today, it stands as a defining pillar of American culture and one of the most streamed genres worldwide. We’re proud that streaming empowers hip-hop artists to share their voices and creativity with a global audience. We welcome the introduction of this resolution to recognize Hip-Hop Celebration Day, Hip-Hop Recognition Month, and Hip-Hop History Month.”

Amazon commented, “Amazon is proud to endorse this resolution celebrating hip hop contributions to redefining culture beyond music. We honor its legacy and the artists who created and contribute to the genre.”

Universal Music Group stated,  “Universal Music Group thanks U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer for his work celebrating hip hop – a distinctly American genre that has changed the world – and joins the Senator in honoring hip hop artists’ unique contributions, identity, style and social impact.”

LeRoy McCarthy, from HeteroDoxX Inc., said,  “Shout Out to Sens. Schumer and Cassidy, the U.S. Senate, and the Hip Hop Congressional Caucus for honoring Hip Hop Arts & Culture legacy with this resolution. It was a pleasure to work closely again with Sen. Schumer and his Staff on successfully advancing this legislation; as Sen. Schumer has consistently supported initiatives to honor Hip Hop over years. Now working also with the newly formed Hip Hop Congressional Caucus with representatives from across America gives a greater emphasis to the phrase: “Hip Hop Don’t Stop” for the youth and Old School alike.”

Ebro Darden, from Apple Music, said,  “At Apple Music, celebrating HipHop music has been core to our platform since we started. HipHop exemplifies cross-cultural expression while always being at the forefront of using technology in the art. HipHop Hooray!”

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