Civics Cypher: Where Community Meets Urban Development
KST Presents
Tuesday, April 7, 2026
6:00pm – 9:00pm
Kelly Strayhorn Theater | 5941 Penn Ave.
Pay What Moves You: $0 – $20
For the third and final session, we gather to examine the connections between economic growth and community wellbeing, looking at how development influences opportunity, equity, and belonging in our neighborhoods. Hosted by Miracle Jones, former Director of Policy and Advocacy at 1Hood Media, with Dr. Jamil Bey, the Founder and Strategic Director of UrbanKind Institute joining the conversation. The evening features performances by Nairobi, Hazell Azzer and Livefromthecity.
Did we ever really learn civics? KST and 1Hood Media present live sessions where government systems and civic rights get broken down. Come to KST Lounge for real talk with activists and political wiz-kids, plus live performances, and a bar. No question is too basic; everyone’s invited to engage, learn, and grab practical voter tools. With community, creativity, and conversation at the core, Civics Cyphers are your gateway to everyday political power.
Event Timeline:
6:00pm | Mixer (30 minutes)
6:30pm | Art Burst Performance #1 (5 minutes)
6:35pm | Cypher Discussion with Dr. Jamil Bey, Miracle Jones, and Audience (45 minutes)
7:20pm | Break (10 minutes)
7:30pm | Art Burst Performance #2 (5 minutes)
7:35pm | Cypher Discussion with Dr. Jamil Bey, Miracle Jones, and Audience (45 minutes)
8:20pm | Art Burst Performance #3 (5 minutes)
8:25pm | Mixer (35 minutes)
412 Tacos food truck will be on site until 8:30pm.
Photo Credit: Collage by Kiearra Williams
AND DON’T MISS…
Civics Cypher:
How the Arts Community Responds to Government Action
Tuesday, February 10
6:00pm – 9:00pm
Kelly Strayhorn Theater | 5941 Penn Ave.
Pay What Moves You: $0 – $20
- ABOUT THE DISCUSSANTS
- ABOUT THE ARTISTS
Dr. Jamil Bey is an urban strategist, educator, and community advocate working to reshape cities into places where all people can thrive. As founder of UrbanKind Institute and the Black Environmental Collective, he advances equitable urban development through policy, education, and grassroots collaboration. Bey facilitates conversations on race, housing, and systemic change while championing opportunities for young leaders. He holds a PhD in Geography from Penn State University and works across Pittsburgh to build communities.
Miracle Jones (Host) serves as the Director of Advocacy and Policy at 1Hood Media Academy, meeting with stakeholders and impacted persons to engage around intersectional solutions and ensure communities are resourced and supported. As the director of legislative affairs for 1Hood Power, she works in the political arena as a criminal justice strategist and advocate for equity. She has organized programs in Georgia, Illinois, and Pennsylvania to raise concerns about violence, discrimination, and gentrification.
Naomi Ruth “Nairobi” Allen is a Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania–based singer-songwriter, rapper, and creative director. Her music is timeless and purpose-driven—an immersive experience that openly addresses social issues including sexual abuse, mental health, and body positivity. She has opened for Freeway and Beanie Sigel, Jessica Care Moore, Kuf Knotz, Rapsody, and Dr. Cornel West. She served as creative director, vocal producer, and co-songwriter for Su(Stained) Reality, providing background vocals on several tracks, and performs throughout the year. For more information on Nairobi, please visit www.queenofnairobi.net.
Livefromthecity is a Pittsburgh-born rapper, producer, and creative visionary building a new lane at the intersection of hip-hop, soul, and forward-thinking production. Known for his magnetic stage presence and sharp lyricism, Livefromthecity blends introspective storytelling with soulful melodies and experimental sound design. Whether performing live or creating in the studio, he approaches music as a full creative world—producing records, crafting narratives, and building experiences that connect deeply with audiences.
Hazell Azzer began his dance training in 2012 with Sugar and Spice 412, quickly developing a foundation in hip-hop, jazz, ballet, and gymnastics. In 2015, he entered the ballroom scene, where he found vogue—an art form that continues to shape his artistic and leadership work. He has since taught over 64 workshops, performed nationally and internationally, and currently serves as a house Mother while leading his own dance team.
