I had the fantastic privilege of attending in an event hosted by Vanessa Harris called Fun4Everyone. She held it in Chicago, and I joined virtually — and fully intend on joining in-person when she hosts again. It was that powerful and engaging. This newsletter is absolutely full of resources from her event, and I am eager to keep learning, growing, and absorbing from the fantastic speakers and attendees. My favorite session was the last one where they showed a series of documentaries and showcased Black music.
They’re Trying to Kill Us - This documentary from John Lewis, executive produced by Chris Paul and Billie Eilish, speaks to health equity and highlights ongoing systemic racism in the U.S.—this time focusing on how control comes from keeping communities of color unwell and unhealthy. As one interviewee states, “If you can control a population’s access to food, you can control the person.”
The Fight for Black Lives - In this documentary, the filmmakers explore racial disparities in health. As noted in the film, “Black and brown women are not being heard. They’re not being seen.” When it comes to maternal and infant health this becomes deadly for these communities. Elected officials haven’t and will not do anything about it, so it’s time for the public to act and make progress in this area.
We’re Unstoppable - An R&B track from the group Sounds of Blackness.
While it wasn’t presented on during the event, the conversation did bring up the book The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks. It’s a chilling true story about the perverted relationship between African Americans, bioethics, and experimentation in medicine.
I want to paint a picture of a world where everyone’s voice matters. Where those who have been marginalized are not only included but empowered as decision makers.
Resources
Many of the above are resources, and I felt the need to highlight them early on. A few additional ones!
Watch Vanessa’s TedTalk. In it she paints a picture of what the world would be like if the disability community designed it. She starts by noting that persons with disabilities are the world’s largest minority then talks about the value of true inclusion and how businesses can become better corporate citizens (and make more money!) by planning spaces for everyone.
Pigment International is a Black woman founded and led multimedia platform. They’re storytellers at heart (yay!) and connect Black artists and creators to curators, collectors, and other stakeholders. They share so many beautiful resources and ways to learn more.
WIN (Workplace Innovation Now) Challenge funded by Pivotal Ventures is a grant opportunity to ignite innovation for Women in the Workplace across three themes: AI, Culture & Practices, and Narrative. The purpose is to discover and scale innovative ideas that help everyone thrive in the workplace. You better believe I’m submitting an idea!
Support Blackweek creators, presenters, and allies. Here’s a great recap post from one attendee.
Ways to Engage
Here are some ways to engage and the organizations noted above have some opportunities as well!
Oct 30th - Nov 2nd: The Pigmented Black Fine Art Faire in Chicago. This Black-run fine art fair is an “exclusive opportunity to experience transformative exhibitions, engage in dynamic conversations, and celebrate the richness and diversity of Black artistic expression.” in a month dedicated to Black fine art excellence.
If you know an aspiring Black female filmmaker, nominate her to be a part of Black Girls Film Camp (ages 14-17).
Support the They’re Trying to Kill Us documentary to fight food injustice and ensure many more are able to view the film and its absolutely critical message.
Pass this newsletter along to 3 people, letting them know why everyone’s voice matters.
Quote of the Month
Imagine with me a world where inclusivity isn’t a distant dream but a vibrant reality. A world where fun, laughter, and progress are truly for all.
