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Meet Paul Robeson Freedom School's Leadership
Rodney "The Real Radio Rahim" Deas
Director and Founder of Paul Robeson Freedom School
Elder | Educator | Activist | Hip Hop Pioneer | Radio Personality
Rodney Deas, widely known as "The Real Radio Rahim," is a dedicated educator, activist, and cultural pioneer. He has over 45 years of experience in business, entertainment, and community organizing, making a lasting impact across multiple industries. As the Director and Founder of the Paul Robeson Freedom School, Mr. Deas has been instrumental in providing independent, community-controlled education for over a decade, impacting the lives of more than 300 students and raising over $100,000 in support.
A key figure in hip-hop’s early days, Mr. Deas promoted concerts, managed artists, and helped develop the Fresh Fest Tour, partnering with industry giants like Russell Simmons, Public Enemy, Whodini and Doug E. Fresh. His international event promotions raised over $10 million, shaping the genre’s commercial success.
Beyond entertainment, Mr. Deas has been deeply involved in activism. He participated in Occupy Wall Street, co-founded The Freedom Party, and led initiatives like the Detroit Water Brigade, which raised over $100,000 to assist struggling homeowners with their water bills. His work with Avalon Village has helped raise over $1 million to revitalize Detroit’s Highland Park community.
Mr. Deas has dedicated his life to empowering communities and the youth through education, activism, and cultural innovation. His work with the Paul Robeson Freedom School continues to provide vital educational resources, while his advocacy efforts contribute to systemic change in housing, economic justice, and political empowerment.
Whether through pioneering hip-hop tours, promoting international concerts, or mobilizing grassroots initiatives, Mr. Deas's unwavering commitment to social progress makes him a transformative force in every arena he touches. Mr. Deas’s lifelong dedication to social justice, education, and cultural empowerment continues to inspire and create meaningful change in the community.