Sookee brings a breath of fresh air: critically examines sexism in rap!

Sookee brings a breath of fresh air: critically examines sexism in rap!

The Berlin rapper Sookee will appear as a special guest at the Babelsberger Salon on May 4th, 2018. This event, which will take place from May 3rd to 5th, 2018 at the Babelsberg KONRAD WOLF Film University, is part of the 1st Gender - Research - Film Symposium. Active since 2003, Sookee is known for her range of topics, which include left-wing politics and queer feminism. During her performance she will address the challenges of sexism and diversity in the German hip-hop scene.

The Babelsberger Salon opens on May 3rd at 5:00 p.m., with contributions from Ulrike Ottinger and Freak Orlando. The symposium, which consists of film screenings, panel discussions, lectures and workshops, will address central questions about the production of meaning in film and the construction of gender in cinema and mass media. Registration for the event is required by April 20, 2018.

Sexism in Rap: A Complex Issue

The topic that Sookee will take up is closely linked to the current discussions about sexism in rap. In general, rap is often perceived as misogynistic and anti-gay. However, this view is too narrow. Rap is a complex field influenced by multiple social lines of difference, including race and gender. An intersectional perspective is required to adequately analyze gender constructions in this genre. bpb.de reports that hip-hop should be understood as a culture and rap as a form of expression, although commercialization and gangsta rap often lead to conceptual confusion.

Gangsta rap, a part of rap culture, is strongly influenced by African-American traditions and often addresses marginalization and opportunities for social advancement. Insult rituals in rap should be seen in a historical context. Sexism often functions as a mechanism for exclusion, which is mainly used by male rappers. These patriarchal structures create spaces in which male-specific role models dominate and images of femininity are often constructed in male terms.

Future developments in rap

Despite the predominant male dominance, there are indications of gender modernization processes in rap, although these are not yet fully visible. Queer artists and alternative gender models are becoming increasingly visible and are helping to expand the spectrum of gender representations. At the same time, sexism and discrimination, including in the digital space, remain present issues that require critical attention.

The event in Babelsberg therefore offers an important platform to discuss these and many other aspects of rap. Sookee will certainly make a significant contribution to diversity in the music scene with her controversial perspective and experiences. filmuniversitaet.de reports that the Babelsberg Salon is of interest not only to students and professionals in film and gender studies, but also to a broader audience.