Taylor Bembery
Associate Editor
Rapper, Clifford “T.I.” Harris, reached out to youth at Forest Hill High School in Jackson, Miss. on Sept. 24 at 3:00 p.m. Harris visited other high schools in Jackson but Forest Hill was his last stop before receiving the key to the City of Jackson, Miss. at City Hall from Mayor Tony Yarber. Mayor Yarber is an alumnus of Forest Hill and accompanied him during the visit.
Kimberly Warfield, Principal of Forest Hill High School and Jackson State University Alumnus, selected 400 out of 1100 students to have the opportunity to hear Harris’ motivational speech.
“Everyone should experience great things and incentives in high school, especially when having good behavior,” said Warfield.
A mixture of 9th through 12th graders filled the auditorium at Forest Hill. Students anxiously waited for the self-proclaimed “King of the South” to take the stage. The Grand Hustle artist made a grand entrance to his song ‘Bring Em Out’ and the crowd went wild.
Harris had to get students settled down from their instant rush of excitement. His message to the students was about walking in their purpose, working hard to achieve their goals, and the importance of receiving an education.
Darius Nelson, is an 11th grader at Forest Hill High School from Jackson, Miss., appreciated everything Harris had to say.
“His message was so informal. I feel like I can do whatever I put my mind to. His main message was about getting your education and how that makes you capable to do anything,” said Nelson.
Harris who has a troubled past, was sentenced to a year and one day in prison in 2009. After his release on March 27, 2010, he started his ‘Road to Redemption’ platform to help save at risk youth apart of his required community service hours.
Four years later and with new outlook on life, Harris has continued the ‘Road to Redemption’, right here in Jackson, Miss. When asked by The Blue & White Flash why he decided to continue his ‘Road to Redemption’ effort, he said it’s about being able to help the community.
“I got word that Jackson was in need of some inspiration and the kids could benefit from my story and my experiences. The Mayor called and asked me if I could come and I obliged with no problem,” said Harris.
