The Threat of Violence

Are we reaching a state of chaos in street dance culture, especially within the U.S. poppin' scene? Recent debates have popped up online in forums about a popper named King Mike who allegedly punched Jsmooth and then fled the scene. There will be ongoing controversy about this incident for weeks to come. Is there a threat of violence growing within our dance community? Many street dancers have shared in personal testimonies that they credit the dance culture for delivering them from violence. Now, we're questioning if our future generation will be facing this threat from within.

What's the source of this concern? Are tensions between the different camps reaching a boiling point because of an online war of words? We've seen how miscommunication and misunderstandings can be aggravated by the constant digital bickering. Some have argued that it has brought a culture of negativity into our community. Some claim that it has instilled fear in young newcomers. It's hurting the entire culture. After all, why would anyone want to be part of a dance culture that is known more for its drama than its celebration of dance?

Maybe all of us in the U.S. poppin' scene need to consider where our anger stems from. Will acting out of anger bring healing or harm? Things are unhealthy. It's no secret. We're affected by what we read online via forums and see on videos. And we keep checking these sources because it's part of our staying connected with the greater community. Not everyone has the ability to travel in the same circles at regular weekly sessions, club nights, or jams. So the negativity that we see online shapes our perceptions of others. We can misinterpret what someone else said. For some, it may inspire violent action or confrontation. In the heat of the moment, reason rarely wins.

We are not in a culture that easily forgives. But that perhaps is the only thing that will bring healing into our current situation. If one alleged violent incident happens and goes unchecked, it can potentially open the door for other incidents to happen. Right now, fear is the ruling factor, infecting the hearts of many young dancers. And it's not healthy.