On a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D engaged in a critical conversation with Rahman Jamaal, leader of Hip Hop Congress and founder of the AfroBushido Academy, and artist Dishon Levexier. The discussion delved into activism, political engagement, and a shocking case of identity theft in San Mateo County that has sent shockwaves through the community.
Local Political Struggles and Systemic Corruption
Rahman Jamaal, a long-time community organizer, emphasized the growing need for local political engagement. His work with Hip Hop Congress, alongside the AfroBushido Academy, seeks to bridge cultural education and community activism. Recently, Jamal found himself thrust into an alarming situation that ties directly to the region’s justice system.
San Mateo County has had a private defender system for over 60 years. It lacks proper oversight. This system fails to provide adequate legal defense. The issue became clear when Carlos Levexier’s son was wrongfully arrested. The arrest appeared to be caused by identity theft. The justice system’s negligence and corruption are evident. Private defenders are not a reliable safeguard.
Jamaal’s AfroBushido Academy shows how community spaces support cultural and social justice. This case highlights deeper legal issues. Innocent individuals can be caught due to systemic failures.
Identity Theft and Legal Struggles: Dishon’s Story
Artist Dishon shared his personal struggle with identity theft and a false criminal case, which has kept him entangled in the justice system for over four years. In 2020, Dishon was wrongfully accused of a crime in Half Moon Bay—a city he has never even visited. The case was built on flawed evidence, including misidentified photos from social media and fabricated alibis. Despite the clear lack of evidence tying Dishon to the crime, he has faced immense pressure to take a plea deal, a common tactic used by the legal system to avoid further investigation.
Dishon’s case highlights a troubling pattern of wrongful accusations, especially for Black and Brown people. They are pressured into plea deals, damaging their reputation and freedom. Dishon has fought for his innocence. He documents evidence and pushes for transparency, despite the odds.
The Importance of Local Government Engagement
Both Jamaal and Dishon stressed the urgency of getting involved in local government to prevent such miscarriages of justice. Jamaal pointed out that national politics get attention, but real battles happen locally. Local decisions impact the community. The San Mateo County sheriff’s case shows the efforts to suppress progressive leadership. She has faced political and legal attacks for advocating police accountability.
The episode also touched on the rise of authoritarianism, with Jamaal noting how the national political landscape—especially with the rise of figures like former President Donald Trump—could fuel further attacks on activists and progressive movements. This makes local political engagement even more crucial to ensure that these injustices do not go unchecked.
Upcoming Town Hall and Community Engagement
Jamaal and Dishon are organizing a Town Hall on January 18 at AfroBushido Academy in Redwood City. The event will feature a board-breaking exhibition and an open mic night. Attendees can hear from Dishon and other community members. Jamaal hopes this will help people share their experiences. The goal is to build a collective case against the system’s abuses.
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, January 18, 2025
- Time: 5:30 PM
- Location: AfroBushido Academy, 2699 Spring Street, Redwood City, CA, 94063
This Town Hall is more than just a gathering; it’s a call to action for those impacted by systemic injustice. Jamaal encourages anyone who has faced similar legal struggles or injustice to come forward and join the fight for accountability and change.
Jamaal aptly noted, “If we can’t win in the courts because the courts are compromised, we must win in the court of public opinion.” The more people speak out and support each other, the stronger the movement will grow to dismantle the systems that perpetuate these injustices.
A Call for Awareness and Action
This conversation reminds us of how local systems, like in San Mateo County, can harm individuals. This is especially true when citizens disengage. Dishon’s fight for justice and Jamaal’s activism highlight the need for awareness. We must take proactive steps to protect individual rights.The time is now for communities to step up, get informed, and make their voices heard.
For those looking to get involved or learn more about the case, Rahman Jamaal can be contacted at AfroBushidoAcademy@gmail.com. The upcoming Town Hall is a vital opportunity to connect, learn, and support one another in this ongoing battle for justice.
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