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by Russell Simmons · Mar 30, 2009 · CRIMINAL JUSTICERead More »
Last week, hundreds of New Yorkers gathered outside the governor's office to call on our representatives in Albany to finalize the proposed Rockefeller drug law reforms. Watch the video above - the energy and drive of the people to reform destructive drug laws around the country is obvious.
All signs say that the pending reforms will be finalized this week. We have achieved a great victory for the people of New York and are inspired by the courageous leadership of Governor Paterson, Senator Smith and Assemblyman Silver. However, we must now go to work around the country to end the unjust drug laws in numerous other states and on the federal level.
Let's work together to change the direction in this country for a more just and fair judicial system.
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AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY
Russell Simmons
Entrepreneur, philanthropist. Born October 4, 1957 in New York City. After a brief stint at City College of New York, Russell Simmons left school to promote local musicians, including Kurtis Blow and Run-D.M.C. In 1984, he and partner Rick Rubin founded Def Jam Recordings, creating the foundation for the cultural revolution known as hip hop. Def Jam signed the forerunners of the hip hop movement, including the Beastie Boys, LL Cool J, Public Enemy and Run-D.M.C.
An ambitious entrepreneur, Simmons saw Def Jam as just part of his hip hop empire. His Rush Communications firm also included Phat Farm clothing company, television shows, a management company, a magazine and an advertising agency. His movie production house has produced such films as Krush Groove and The Nutty Professor. In 1999, he sold his stake in Def Jam Records to Universal Music Group for $100 million. In 2004, he sold Phat Farm for $140 million.
A strict vegan and yoga enthusiast, Simmons is also an active philanthropist. He helped found the Hip Hop Summit Action Network, the Rush Philanthropic Organization and the Foundation for Ethnic Understanding. He actively supports PETA and was named a Goodwill Ambassador to fight war, poverty and HIV/AIDS. He is the author of Do You! 12 Laws To Access The Power In You To Achieve Happiness And Success.