By sharing the history of youth who have fought for the betterment of society through artistic expression, MeMA-Music encourages students to share their voices and participate in thoughtful dialogue that fosters civic and social awareness. they are tasked to create and voice their own unique and powerful messages that articulate the change(s) that they themselves envision for the world. Students are given the opportunity to choose their own social justice topics and artistic mediums to create their culminating projects, working independently or in groups to promote social justice. Student choice allows them to take ownership of their learning as well as create a product that feels authentic to them.

Chicago native Jeanne Warsaw’s career experience in the music business provides her with unique insight into the world of popular music and how music can be a voice for change. She has spent over 20 years working in the music industry, marketing, and promoting multi-million-dollar international recording artists such as Janet Jackson, David Bowie, The Rolling Stones, Lenny Kravitz, and hundreds more. Jeanne‘s music industry career began with legendary Chicago retail chain Rose Records, for whom she worked as a buyer. She quickly rose to work in promotion and marketing for Sony Records and dedicated herself to the music business ever since, having served as Promotion and Marketing Director for RCA/BMG, Elektra/Warner Bros., and Virgin/EMI. During that time, Jeanne actively worked with recording artists to bring their music to the community and into schools to speak with young people about social issues and how music can be a voice for change. Jeanne’s professional network provides a connection to active musicians, and artist professionals in the community.