Cultural Embrace's Tribute to Michael Jackson - The 'King' of Entertainment and Humanitarian Efforts

7/2/200910:45:09 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment

Emlyn's Expressions

I’m sure, like me, many of you were stunned with Michael Jackson’s recent and sudden death. He was one of my favorite pop stars, if not THE favorite. In my mind, his music, dancing, and philanthropic ways put him in a league of his own. Even if you didn’t like his style of music, or were unimpressed by his dance moves (seriously?!), or questioned his criminal background…you have to admit, his ‘King of Pop’ status not only defined “American” pop culture, but characterized a “World” culture.

His talent as a musician and songwriter were insurmountable. He paved the way for black artists to be shown on MTV and elevated the standard for music videos—transcending it to an art form comparable to short films. I don’t know how many attempts I have made to moonwalk, or multi-rotate spin like him. I never came close to what seemed so effortless to him.

But what I admired the most about Michael Jackson was his compassionate heart. The amount of time, energy, and money he dedicated to humanitarian causes is unfortunately often overshadowed by the media hype surrounding his private life. He was one of the major celebrities who contributed in organizing “Hands Across America.” Do you recall May 25, 1986 when millions of Americans joined hands to form a line stretching across 4,152 miles of the United States to raise money to fight hunger and homelessness? Have you dug through your boxes in your parent’s basement to find the “We Are the World” 45 record that Michael Jackson co-wrote, to raise funds to help famine relief efforts in Africa?

MJ’s hit songs, platinum albums, and relief efforts were the mainstream media and entertainment news events continuously reported on during my childhood and teenaged years…how could it NOT impact who I am today? I am by no means as talented, or as altruistic as Michael Jackson was, but I will try to emulate his efforts by helping those less fortunate than myself, and those in need of love, dedication, and attention.

One of the major reasons I founded Cultural Embrace was to provide opportunities for individuals and groups to recognize and appreciate cultural diversity. I believe that visiting a place firsthand allows one to truly experience the authenticity of a culture and develop one's own impressions. Personal experience is beyond the influence of textbooks and media. You experience a unique connection when you roll up your sleeve to help someone in need. Or when you extend your arm to shake a stranger’s hand or give them a hug, and you see that despite your outward differences, you share a similar genuine smile.

Cultural Embrace offers programs all around the globe--throughout Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and Oceania. And on June 25th, 2009 we officially launched our first US program – right here in our home city, the live music capitol of the world: Austin, TX!

At Cultural Embrace, we organize all types of programs: trips, volunteer, internship, work, teach, as well as cultural classes in increments from from 1-52 weeks. Our staff is dedicated to guiding you to a program that will help you achieve your goals and passions. Let us know where you want to go, what you want to do, and how it will significantly impact your life, as well as the people and communities you wish to encounter, and we will arrange logistical details for you to have a safe and memorable adventure.

We can continue MJ’s spirit. We are the man (and woman) who can look in the mirror, and say if we want to make the world a better place then take a look at ourselves and make that change. R.I.P Michael!