“For junior high school I attended the East Harlem Performing Arts school. It was a type of small school or “minischool” that incorporated different types of art music, drama, dance, and art into the curriculum. I think this not only made school more fun (engaging,) but also allowed for self-expression. Along with the academics, it spurred us to dream. It empowered us to say mirame!, look at me! The enduring impact of Hip Hop and Break Dancing I believe is a reflection of the talent and beauty that resides in the Bronx, the resilience and strength of the community, and provides a source of pride. The arts can be a healthy outlet, a medium for conveying information about ourselves (individually as well as collectively), an avenue for advocacy, an impetus for the creation of community, and a source of joy.  Impact can be economic,  cultural, or social and can take place at the individual as well as the collective level.”