FROM RICH PERSONAL HISTORIES TO PIVOTAL EXPERIENCES WITH RACISM TO UNBRIDLED MOMENTS OF JOY, THE BLACK TRUTH PROJECT IS A POWERFUL CALL TO CONTINUED ALLYSHIP FOR NON-BLACK PEOPLE, AND A WAY FOR BLACK PEOPLE TO SEE AND CELEBRATE THEMSELVES. WATCH THE TEASER TO LEARN MORE!
Hearing the term “Black History” likely invites a mental sideshow of iconic images: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. orating against the backdrop of the Washington Monument; mounted police attacking peaceful marchers on the Edmund Pettus Bridge; 6-year-old Ruby Bridges ascending the steps of her elementary school flanked by federal marshalls. And while those moments and movements are incredibly important, a narrow focus on events and individuals from decades ago can obscure the history that is being made in this very moment - the living, breathing Black folks whose experiences can both validate and uplift those of their peers, and inspire and educate allies. It is with this in mind that Change Cadet, Rep Co, and lululemon bring you The Black Truth Project - a deep dive into the lived experiences of a group of very different individuals - from an artist to an Olympian, a physician to an activist - who come from starkly different backgrounds. Made up of a series of short films, still photographs, interviews and artwork, and led by activist and antiracist educator Dr. Akilah Cadet, The Black Truth Project is, according to Cadet, “a call to continued allyship for non-Black people, and a way for Black people to see themselves, and celebrate themselves”.
HEAR THE VOICES.
DR. AKILAH CADET
Founder + CEO of Change Cadet and dismantles white supremacy by day at her firm working with businesses and brands around the world. Dr. Cadet brainchild of The Black Truth Project as a celebration for Black people and a call to action for allyship.
Follow: @changecadet @changecadetpodcast
Support: Purchase her shirts that support her public education and advocacy.
Info: changecadet.com
PETER LIMATA
Mr. Limata is the BEST first grade teacher! Based in Oakland, CA his story time started during the pandemic is seen around the world. Kids and adults (even Ellen) alike are fans of his messages from love to social justice!
Follow: @storytimewithmrlimata
Support: Watch Story Time with Mr. Limata with 5 new stories a week!
Info: storytimewithmrlimata
GEORGE MCCALMAN
Founder of McCalman Co. George is a fine artist, illustrator and graphic designer. His social commentary in his art and words captures anyone’s attention (especially allies). He has made a lane for himself and is unstoppable.
Follow: @mccalmanco
Support: Purchase his work and see his words and art in the SF Chronicle.
Info: mccalman.co
DR. AISHA MAYS
Dr. Mays is an example of Black excellence. As co-Founder of Dream Youth Clinic she is a source of inspiration to youth and up and coming Black physicians. From fashion to facts Dr. Mays speaks the truth.
Follow: @dr.aisha.m @dreamyouthclinic
Support: Donate to the Dream Youth Clinic
Info: rootsclinic.org
READ THE STORIES.
IN CONVERSATION.
BRANDON GRAHAM
Brandon is a dancer, choreographer, and model. Living in multiple cities across the country, Brandon shares his story of navigating life as a Black man on and off the stage in predominately white spaces.
Follow: @bbrandon_graham
LEAH FORD
Leah is a true fashionista, as she is currently studying fashion merchandising. At a young age, Leah knew the importance of having inclusive spaces where Black students could be creative and represented when expressing themselves.
Follow: @leaahh.renee
JUSTIN GATLIN
Justin may be a track Olympian and World Champion however, one of his biggest attributions is also being a role model and inspiration for young athletes who look like him. He shares his truth as a Black man and not just as an athlete.
Follow: @justingatlin
