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J-Def PEace Project
History of the j-def peace project
The J-Def Peace Project was created to honor the life of Jeff Maldonado Jr, also known as J-DEF. J-DEF was a young hip-hop artist in Pilsen. J-Def was a victim of gun violence and died a day after his nineteenth birthday. Our endeavor celebrates his creative legacy every day.
The J-Def Peace Project has empowered youth across several Chicago neighborhoods including Pilsen, Brighton Park, Back of the Yards, East Side, and North Lawndale. Creating a safe and creative environment allows our teens to develop 21st-century skills that will prepare them for life after high school. Their work and dedication have a positive impact on their lives and their communities.
The J-Def Peace Project has empowered youth across several Chicago neighborhoods including Pilsen, Brighton Park, Back of the Yards, East Side, and North Lawndale. Creating a safe and creative environment allows our teens to develop 21st-century skills that will prepare them for life after high school. Their work and dedication have a positive impact on their lives and their communities.
Photo credit: Jada Becker-Vargas
Creativity=peace
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The J-Def Peace Project provides a safe place to implement teen skill-building and leadership through the arts. Teens focus on skills of human achievement and creativity. These skills are implemented through the visual arts process where our philosophy of balance, community, and dedication to creativity leads to peace.