Culture and Politics EP 2 (Part 1 of 2)

So, here we go with Culture and Politics EP 2 (Part 1 of 2), all about the 2017 Global Citizen Festival in Central Park. Hosted by Rickey Corporan, this episode dives into a super lively event that’s not just about music but also about making a real difference in the world.

Rickey kicks things off with a warm welcome, setting the stage for the festival. This isn’t just another concert; it’s a big deal focused on social issues. He talks about what happens when music, culture, and politics mix to make a positive impact.

Right from the start, we hear from New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio. He really gets the crowd thinking when he asks, "Do you think you can change the world?" He talks about the city’s plans to tackle poverty and climate change. He shares some good news — like how they’re expecting to help 281,000 people out of poverty this year — and pushes everyone to keep fighting for fair wages and sustainable practices. The crowd is buzzing with energy as they cheer him on.

One of the big themes here is climate justice. De Blasio reminds everyone just how crucial it is to take care of our planet, especially with all the crazy weather and climate issues happening lately. Throughout the festival, artists and speakers keep coming back to this idea: if we want a fairer world, we’ve gotta protect our Earth, too.

Interspersed between speeches, we see big names from the business world, like Kevin O’Leary, Daymond John, and Mark Cuban from Shark Tank. They step up to encourage people to start businesses with a good cause. It’s cool to hear that they’ve put their money into projects that help lift people out of poverty. They emphasize that making a real impact takes both innovative ideas and actual money — and a supportive community like the one gathered that day.

Now, let’s talk about the music! Rickey captures the vibe as artists like Alessia Cara, Big Sean, and The Killers light up the stage. Big Sean really stands out, speaking about mental health, compassion, and bouncing back through tough times. He tells the crowd, “Never let them kill your dreams,” leading into a moment of silence for those struggling around the world. It’s a touching reminder that while we’re having a great time, many are still in tough spots that need our understanding and action.

The energy in this first part is just electric. You see crowds of thousands all there for a common purpose. The mix of song lyrics, speeches, and cheers creates a vibe that’s both spiritual and political. Again and again, the message is clear: every single person has the power to make a difference. Even with all these big-name stars, it’s the everyday folks who really kick off lasting change.

What makes the Global Citizen Festival special — and what Rickey captures so well — is the blend of activism and heartfelt passion. Throughout this episode, he ties together all the best moments, showing how amazing things can be when we unite.

Part 1 wraps up with Big Sean’s inspiring words, leaving everyone hopeful about their ability to contribute to change. And guess what? Part 2 is on its way, promising even more unforgettable moments and strong messages.

Overall, Culture and Politics EP 2 (Part 1 of 2) is a colorful, thought-provoking look at one of the year’s key events. It’s a reminder of our duty to each other, our communities, and our planet. So, stick around for the second part of this incredible journey!

Link to watch video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_2i0YMRNguo&t=128s