MLK Peace Breakfast

Keynote Speakers

Maryum “May May” Ali

Maryum “May May” Ali is a multifaceted public speaker, social worker, and author, best known as the eldest of Muhammad Ali’s nine children. Her life, driven by a purpose instilled by her father to help others, has spanned various careers. From performing as a stand-up comedian and releasing a rap album in 1992, Maryum transitioned out of entertainment to directly impact youth by pursuing a B.A. Degree in Social Work, graduating Magna Cum Laude. With over fifteen years in juvenile delinquency prevention and youth development, she’s worked extensively in Los Angeles’s gang reduction initiatives and appeared on A&E’s docuseries “60 Days In” to propose jail reforms. As a keynote speaker, Maryum presents nationwide, focusing on social services and sharing her father’s legacy and battle with Parkinson’s disease. She celebrates the re-release of her children’s book, “I Shook Up the World: The Incredible Life of Muhammad Ali,” marking its 20th anniversary.

Khalid el-Hakim, Ph.D.

Khalid el-Hakim, Ph.D., is the founder of the Black History 101 Mobile Museum, an innovative traveling exhibit featuring over 7,000 Black memorabilia artifacts, ranging from the era of the trans-Atlantic slave trade to modern hip-hop culture. Lauded as the modern Schomburg of his generation, Dr. el-Hakim has gained national and international acclaim for showcasing Black history in non-traditional venues. He has been recognized as a Change Maker by NBC Universal’s Erase the Hate campaign and listed as one of Black Enterprise magazine’s 100 Men of Distinction in 2017. His museum has been displayed in 40 states across America, making it a prominent exhibit on Black history. Author of “The Center of the Movement: Collecting Hip Hop Memorabilia,” Dr. el-Hakim has also contributed significantly to the hip-hop industry as a manager and booking agent. Additionally, he has taught middle school in Detroit and is set to open the Michigan Hip Hop Archive at Western Michigan University in 2020.

Professor Griff

Professor Griff is a multi-talented cultural analyst, educator, writer, producer, and musician known for his work as a co-founder of Public Enemy. His influence extends beyond music to the realms of activism and education, particularly in the hip-hop community. Griff is a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and author of the guide “Musick Bizness R.I.P.” With over two decades in the industry, he’s a respected figure on the lecture circuit, discussing the impact of societal forces on hip-hop culture.

Holding a Bachelor of Science in Education and being a martial artist and licensed security defense instructor, Griff leverages his diverse skills to inspire and educate, focusing on personal and spiritual growth. His recent works include the “Atlanta Musick Bizness R.I.P.,” aiding those entering the music industry, and a variety of projects ranging from music albums to books like “The Psychological Covert War on Hip-Hop.” Griff also shares his insights on his internet radio show, “Sirius Mindz RnTV.”

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