The Hip Hop Chess Federation, founded by author/lecturer Adisa Banjoko, will be holding its latest chess competition next month with the West Coast Kings & Queens Tournament. The event, which will take place at John O’Connell High School in San Francisco October 10, will also include a martial arts exhibitions, b-boy ciphers, as well as prize giveaways for attendees.
With Hip Hop artists such as Rakaa Iriscience (Dilated Peoples), Traxamillion, and Casual (Heiroglyphics) expected to take part in the event, Banjoko stated, “It was time for the HHCF to do something specifically to celebrate the power and impact of the artists from the west coast.” Continuing, he explained, “All of the artists in attendance have a proven track record not only of being raw, but in giving back to the communities they come from. We’re honored and humbled to have them all in attendance.”
Despite a troubling economy that could discourage some, Banjoko still sees his organization as a leading cause to enlightening kids about new activities in their communities. “These are tough times for many of America’s youth. Nevertheless the HHCF remains unflinching in our goal to share the countless educational and artistic life options for them in this world.”
Admission is free for attendees. People can learn more about HHCF [here], as well as sign up for the West Coast Kings & Queens Tournament [here].
