Event to break down racial barriers features Joseph "Rev Run" Simmons

By Jill Ouikahilo

The Theta Xi Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and the Student African American Society (SAS) are hosting a collaborative event, titled “Race Relations” on March 21 in the HBC Gifford Auditorium. Hip-hop pioneer and reality TV personality Joseph Simmons, also known as “Rev Run,” will be a featured panelist on the topic of “Race, religion and hip-hop in the modern world.” The event is open to the public and begins at 7:14 p.m.—the "14" representing the year 1914, which was when the national chapter was founded. Tickets are free and available at the Schine Box Office.

Race Relations is an annual event held by the brothers of the Theta Xi Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. The goal of the event is to break down the racial barriers on campus through a healthy discussion surrounding a topic that people can relate to.  

Joseph “Rev Run” Simmons is a pioneering musician, accomplished author, fashion mogul, and star of MTV’s hit reality show Run’s House. The man once known as the superstar rapper called “Run” from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame group, Run DMC, found a further, deeper calling, and has re-emerged to the world as “Reverend Run. ” Today, he shares his ministry with millions of fans both old and new, touching people worldwide through his written works, music, fashion, and television endeavors.

For more information regarding this event, please contact Donald Saint-Germain at dhsaintg@syr.edu.