Race Action Area

I am a cultural organizer and strategist. I coordinated Cultural Programs at Highlander Research and Education Center from 2004 through May 2015. I also work regionally, nationally and internationally. Some of groups I have worked with are Arkansas Equality Network on their “Safe Schools Campaign,” ACORN (Arkansas Community Organization for Reform Now) on housing and Community Reinvestment Act issues, the Arkansas Women’s Project with the “Hate Free Arkansas Campaign. I lead the African American Women’s Institute and work throughout the African Diaspora with Youth and young adults.

While in college, I enthusiastically embraced radio as a medium of communication. As radio show producer/ DJ on on KABF 88.3 in Little Rock Arkansas, I hosted The Sankofa Sessions for multiple years, establishing a grassroots progressive alternative to commercial radio outlets. I was instrumental in bringing national celebrities to the Little Rock Metroplex, initiating collaborations with community organizations to support progressive policy and practice shifts lead by grassroots community leaders and connected to national campaigns.

I was Project Director for Safe Haven Ministries, a youth and young adult program in Arkansas. I am a CDC certified HIV/AIDS counselor who has done youth trainings throughout the world. I performed with the Essie Neal Blues Band, Dr. Bernice J. Reagon, Guy and Candie Carawan, Elise Witt, Paula Larke, Carpetbag Theatre, Fruit of Labor Singing Ensemble, Chris Aka (Zambia), Devon Evans (Drummer, Wailers), and others throughout the world. In 2011, I was blessed to perform as the only American-born African artist on the Africa Stage at the World Social Forum in Dakar, Senegal.

I am a member of Alternate Roots and served on the Executive Committee. I am a founding member of Datule’ Artist Collective. I have also served on the National Steering Committee for the Gathering for Justice; on the Leadership Team of the Arkansas Women’s Project; and as an International Advisor for the New Season’s Youth Program which provides US educational opportunities for African and Caribbean students. I also worked with Creative Solutions Zanzibar, a program empowering women and children toward economic independence through education, micro-loans, and training in art making and merchandising.