The Ying Yang Twins to Appear on Dr. Phil to Debate Anti-Pants Sagging Campaign

Rappers Kaine and D-Roc of Atlanta based duo the Ying Yang Twins are scheduled to appear on an upcoming episode of the Dr. Phil talk show to debate a recent campaign to put an end to saggy jeans. The pair have been invited onto the show to discuss the issue alongside the founders of the Dallas based Hip-Hop Government organization, Rev. Al Sharpton and Dallas Deputy Pro Tem Mayor Dwaine Caraway. Jay Scroggins, Damon Wofford, and Chris Williams launched Hip-Hop Government in 2005 as a way to get young people within the Hip-Hop culture involved in the political process. In October of 2007, the group launched its “Pull ‘Em Up” campaign against the fashion trend of sagging jeans and exposed boxer shorts. The men believe that the trend is often misinterpreted by people outside of the culture and used to stereotype young people, ultimately hurting their chances of securing employment. Hip-Hop Government eventually erected 17 billboards across the city publicizing the campaign. While their project seems well intentioned, the “Pull ‘Em Up” campaign and similar pushes in other cities have stirred up much controversy. Opponents have called the measures an affront to free speech and another excuse for authorities to racially profile minority youth. “We are excited for the opportunity to address issues that concern our culture,” Williams said of the appearance on Dr. Phil. “Too often, when members of the hip hop community are in the media, it's for something negative. It feels good to know that we are being invited because we are recognized for our positive contributions to the community.” According to the Ying Yang Twins’ Myspace page, the episode will air on January 28.