The ‘KMD-MF DOOM Way Committee’ launched the new petition on Monday (22 February).
A petition has been launched with a goal to rename a street in New York after MF DOOM, who passed away aged 49 last October. The late rapper and producer’s death was confirmed by his wife Jasmine on 31 December, 2020.
The ‘KMD-MF DOOM Way Committee’ is calling for the block on East Hudson Street, between Riverside Boulevard and Long Beach Road, to be renamed after DOOM, who grew up in Long Beach. The petition was launched by Dr. Patrick C. Graham and has already received over 500 signatures.
In the petition description, Graham writes on behalf of the committee, “Hip-hop leaders credit Mr. Dumile as one of the most prolific rap artists of all time. His life served as an example of inclusive community building and growth through individual struggle Long Beach profoundly influenced his adolescents.”
“People of various backgrounds and cultures worldwide recognize him as one of the greatest, if not the greatest, underground hip-hop artist of all time. Mr. Dumile’s ability to unite people across cultures started as a youth in Long Beach.”
He also discusses the impact Long Beach had on both DOOM’s life and his career, the tragic moments in DOOM’s story (such as the death of his brother Dingilizwe “DJ SubRoc” Dumile in 1993) as well as a 1994 label dispute. “Mr. Dumile represents the ability to grow through tragedy and unite people around common themes,” writes Graham. “We need more individuals like him during this time of political and social divisions. Mr. Dumile still inspires many young people to view the potential of everyday life.”
“Long Beach should be proud of its native son and honor him and his legacy on a street sign. Just as important, the city should embrace the unity Mr. Dumile represents for generations to come.”
Last month, our Issue 117 cover stay KeiyaA stitched together a special mix in celebration of former Crack Magazine cover star DOOM, an artist who has had a foundational influence on her artistry. Tune into the mix below and sign the petition here.
