Houston's mayor declares official "Bun B Day"

The rapper/professor posted this photograph of the official proclamation to his @BunBTrillOG account on Twitter

Bernard Freeman has done it again - making both hip hop and Houston history with yesterday's City Hall proclamation from Mayor Annise Parker of an official "Bun B Day."

The accommodation declared that August 30, 2011 would be known for the rapper/professor in recognition of his commitment to community service.

Within the last few years, the UGK rapper has served Houston both privately and publicly through efforts like:

- Co-teaching a "Religion and Hip Hop Culture" class at Rice University
- Headlining 97.9 KBXX's "Hip Hop 4 HIV" concert
- Speaking to a local youth mentorship group
- Participating in Rap-A-Lot Records & All Eyes On Me Ministries' "Hip Hop Hope Family Fun Day"
- Participating in a Real Talk Teen Assembly at Willowridge High School

Bun B with the TWEF Eagle Scholars in May
- Photo by Sketch the Journalist

The Houston Press reports that Bun B used the occasion to speak to and encourage a more active focus on the issues facing young people.

"I do believe that presently in Houston there is a need for more hands on attention for the youth of the city, either with after school programs or just a general need for attention to the children.

I'd like to take this opportunity to tell the City Council that I am available 24-7/365 when it comes to the children of Houston as well as the surrounding cities and communities. Whenever the city needs me, I am more than willing and able to answer the call.

I ask everyone who is here present today, as well as those who may see this on TV or the internet later, to do their part as well."

Having worked with Bun through several panel discussions and outreaches with Christian rapper Bobby "Tre9" Herring, I can confirm that he is indeed approachable, reachable, and very interested in making a positive contribution to community outside of his music.

Without a doubt it would be great to see more mainstream rappers follow his lead.

Here's a clip of the presentation from The Rap Up blog.