To the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and all concerned parties:
We, the undersigned, stand in protest against the systematic erasure and misrepresentation of Foundational Black American culture in the context of breakdancing and hip-hop's inclusion in the Olympic Games. For decades, hip-hop and rap culture have been demonized and marginalized, only to now be appropriated and misattributed as they gain mainstream acceptance and recognition.

Historical Erasure and Cultural Appropriation:
From the 1970s onward, hip-hop culture—comprising breakdancing, rap, DJing, and graffiti—has been a vital expression of the struggles and resilience of Foundational Black Americans. Despite facing systemic racism and societal neglect, these communities forged a vibrant, influential cultural movement that has since spread globally.

Breakdancing, an integral element of hip-hop culture, emerged exclusively from Foundational Black American communities. It is unacceptable that, as breakdancing enters the Olympics, there appears to be a concerted effort by the dominant society to recast its origins, often highlighting Latino contributions while glossing over the crucial role played by Foundational Black Americans. This selective narrative is a form of ethnogenocide, systematically erasing the cultural heritage of Foundational Black Americans in music and dance.


Acknowledging the True Pioneers:
We demand recognition for the legendary first breakdancer, Lauree Myers aka Trixie, who is credited as the pioneer of breakdancing. His contributions, alongside those of many other Foundational Black Americans, are essential to the history and evolution of breakdancing. It is imperative that the IOC and associated bodies accurately represent this history.

Hip-hop culture, as a whole, was birthed from the experiences and creativity of Foundational Black Americans. This narrative is explored in-depth in the documentary "Microphone Check," which interviews early pioneers from the 1970s and provides a comprehensive account of hip-hop's creation.


Our Demands:
Correct Historical Representation: The IOC must accurately credit Foundational Black Americans as the originators of breakdancing and hip-hop culture in all official materials and communications.
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 Foundational Black Americans.
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 call to action to bring shame to the Olympics until the true history is acknowledged and celebrated. We will not stand by as the cultural contributions of foundational Black Americans are erased or misrepresented. If these demands are not met, we will organize protests and campaigns to ensure that the world knows the true origins of breakdancing and hip-hop culture.

Add your name and support to this cause:
It is of paramount importance that we preserve and honor the true origins of breakdancing and hip-hop culture. The IOC has a responsibility to correct the historical record and give due credit to the foundational Black Americans who created and nurtured these art forms. We urge immediate action to rectify this oversight and to prevent further cultural erasure.

Join us in demanding justice and recognition for our cultural heritage.

Tag the IOC with this petition and our grievance:
X, Instagram & Facebook: @Olympics

We need to shame the dominant society into making the necessary changes.