ARTS & CULTURE
The need for cultural recognition and representation for Black people in Boston is crucial in addressing the harms of erasure, discrimination, and racism.
The destruction and loss of African people’s culture upon forced arrival in the States have had irreparable impacts that still affect Black people today. The denial of Black people’s right to openly express their cultures, a habit of cultural appropriation by the broader public, and a denial of resources and rights for Black people to be self-determining in this society have further exacerbated these harms.
Through increased representation in cultural institutions and education, and a commitment to preserving and celebrating Black history and culture, we strive to create a society that recognizes and values the contributions of Black people, and promotes a diverse and inclusive community in Greater Boston.
OUR MULTIDIMENSIONAL APPROACH
MONUMENTS & CULTURAL WEALTH:
Re-imagining our public spaces to honor diverse histories and inspire unity
HOW: Building monuments and memorials through public art to address representation, monumentalizing that which has been erased or diminished, and investing in the creation of counter-narrative art and symbols.
ENGAGEMENT:
Fostering community participation to ensure that people see themselves and are reflected in the work
HOW: Using our resources and knowledge, to build capacity in community through coalition formation, building authentic relationships with all stakeholders and centering the needs, knowledge, and voices of People of Color, bringing experiences from the margins inward so all can participate fully and benefit mutually.
NARRATIVE:
Shaping our city's story to acknowledge past hardships, celebrate progress, and envision a just future
HOW: Producing media and digital storytelling that elevates non-monolithic narratives of Black Boston, partnering with local, national and global media sources to align storytelling in racial equity and inclusion.
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SPATIAL JUSTICE:
Striving for equitable access to resources and opportunities across all neighborhoods
HOW: Building, reclaiming and sustaining spaces across Boston that are essential to thriving Black culture. Providing Teaching & Learning Opportunities. Introducing Embodied Practices.
POLICY:
Implementing inclusive policies that directly address inequities and promote sustainable development.
HOW: Advocating on behalf of legislation and policies that counters and dismantles structural racism in the City of Boston, and across the State of Massachusetts.
EMBRACE IDEAS FESTIVAL
Mark your calendar for our annual multi-day mashup featuring big ideas and dynamic change makers, music and the arts, and plenty of creative energy and fresh-squeezed conversations.
“We need spaces that promote our coming together to gather, celebrate and re-charge. This is an essential part of our collective wellbeing.” - Gregory Ball, Embrace Boston
THE EMBRACE MEMORIAL
How we are represented is connected to where we are represented. The Embrace is the first major monument built on Boston Common in more than 30 years. This is the project that launched our work. Monuments represent values, and this one honors inclusion, racial equity, and justice.
