Hip Hop is Not Our Enemy: From A Preacher Who Keeps It Real
Dr. Kenneth T. Whalum, Jr., though acquainted with Presidents, maintains a common touch with people who just want a leader who keeps it real! Born and raised in the inner-city of Memphis, Tennessee, Dr. Whalum has dedicated his life to proclaiming social justice for the citizens of Memphis, especially those who cannot speak for themselves, our children. Dr. Whalum is a graduate of Atlanta's Morehouse College, Philadelphia's Temple University School of Law, and the Memphis Theological Seminary. In 2006, Memphis voters spoke with a roaring voice when Whalum won the coveted race for his current At-Large 2, Memphis City School Board Commissioner position. His charismatic personality and audacious speech regularly harvests the attention of various media outlets. In February 2008, The Memphis Flyer, a local newspaper wrote, "Whalum is the coach who gets in your face to get you fired up for the fourth quarter". "Whalum is a natural leader who is going to be a force in Memphis politics for years to come". Earnest Magazine proclaims him as a "fearless force for our people". In 1998, at the request of Mayor Willie Herenton, Whalum produced the City of Memphis' official 30th Anniversary Observance of the life and death of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. And on April 4, 2008, Whalum's church in conjunction with his alma mater, Morehouse, hosted the third annual Candle on the Bluff Awards Program. A program that honors the life and legacy of Dr. King, Jr. by rewarding the accomplishments of deserving leaders in Memphis. Whalum attributes much of his success to the continuous support of his wife, Sheila, who is a well respected businesswoman and author in Memphis. Kenneth and Sheila are the proud parents of three sons, Kenneth III, and Kortland, and Kameron, all of whom are professional musicians.