Get Down for Gaza Vol.3 Hosts Breakdancing Fundraiser in NYC

Hip-hop has always been a movement born from struggle, and in its third edition, Get Down for Gaza brought that spirit back to its roots in New York City. Hosted by MENA Artists Initiative and One Society Crew, the event gathered some of the best breakers from across the US and beyond to compete and raise crucial funds for Gaza’s Camps Breakerz Crew, whose dance school was destroyed by an Israeli airstrike.

“This fundraising jam will help Camps Breakerz rebuild their school and continue their important work of providing trauma relief and an artistic outlet for kids during the ongoing crisis,” said Sofia Mahdavi, founder of MENA Artists Initiative. “The event is also a great opportunity to take everyone back to the roots of what it means to be in the hip-hop community and how we can come together as one in the face of genocide and injustice.”

Held at Starr Bar in Bushwick, the 2v2 battle featured intense matchups, cyphers and performances, all channeling the raw energy that defines underground hip-hop. But beyond the competition, the event served as a bridge between generations of breakers, including pioneers of the culture who came to show solidarity and learn dabke, a traditional Palestinian dance.

Since its launch, Get Down for Gaza has sparked sister events across the globe, from LA to Ireland to Egypt. With 100% of proceeds going directly to Camps Breakerz, the battle reaffirmed breaking’s power as a form of resistance, solidarity, and cultural preservation.

For those who missed it, the full battle is available to watch on Twitch and YouTube.