'Fighting the same fight': Milwaukee activist creates Black History Month song with 18-year-old artist

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- In celebration of Black History Month, a Milwaukee activist is partnering with a young artist to spread a message of culture, influence and positive change.

"We like to deliver a message through music," said community activist, Tracey Dent.

Dent is creating a music video and original song, with lyrics and vocals by 18-year-old Milwaukee artist, Crysy.B.

"This is about being proud of who you are," Dent said. "Be proud of the ancestors who paved the way for today, because without them, we would not be here today."

Crysy's lyrics recognize the influence of black culture, while acknowledging progress must still be made.

We as black people were made to be the issue, the problem, when most of the time, we created what today calls a culture," Crysy.B said.

Crysy's involvement in this project symbolizes how history can impact young leaders, just like her.

"My great, great, great grandmother, she was a slave. She was picking cotton. I feel like I'm honoring her in some way," Crysy. B said.

"We're still fighting the same fight, and I'm proud that my daughter is a part of that fight," Crysy's mother, Crystal Bell, told CBS 58.

The song will be released later this month via social media.

It pays homage to black history and activism across the world, and in our own community.

"This is dedicated to all the leaders and future leaders here in Milwaukee," Dent said.