Defining Our Culture
Let's Define Progress as a conference hopes to not only discuss the political positions of our community, but we also hope to celebrate the activities and progression of our culture. In defining who we are, as well as hoping to strengthen the bond within our community, we hope to offer a glimpse into the works of many artists or creators who those outside of social media may not have the opportunity to come across. In an effort to support the people and movements which are our allies and companions we also hope to show our support of Community Leaders and Organizers promoting Pro-Black activities worldwide. The evolution of Black Art, Fashion, Photography, Literature, design, as well as the new approach by grassroots civil rights leaders are proof of the progress that has been made thus far in our journey. We hope that by offering exposure to our community's heartbeat we are able to bring the African Unit closer through joy of our multifaceted forms of expression and activism.
Black Art & Artists
Art has been used as a form of expression for our community extending back deep into our history. Whether it was on cave walls, the atriums of the egyptian temples, or on the hides of animals we have always depicted our condition, position, hopes, dreams or nightmares through art. Today's Black artists display the highs and lows as well as the hopes, dreams, and imagination of our community.
Photo Cred Devin Macallister - Click Here For More of His Work
Black Photographers and Models
The ability of Black Photographers to showcase the beauty of Melanated people has inspired so many who were once ashamed of their dark skin to embrace the beauty we see in each other. Black models of all shapes, skin tones, and hair styles display just how diverse our Black community is as well as the true beauty we hold.
Photo Courtesy of - @_kennyyg
Black Fashion & Designers
Our ability to design and create not only new styles but also for small business entrepreneurs to be able to develop their own fashion lines as well has granted us the ability to truly be unique and support each others dreams. Black Designers and Lines represent a true level of expression that grows our bond with one another and at the same time grows our economic opportunities by giving individuals the ability to earn wealth from their creativity instead of simply working for a paycheck developing more of the same. In this section we are showcasing the Black Brands and designers who are giving us yet another reason to Buy Black.
Black Authors and Literature
Today Black Writers and and Historians are bringing a voice to our view in both Fiction and Non Fiction Works. The ability to tell our side of the story in relation to our condition as well as what we value has created a new generation of authors who are helping to change the image of our community. This section hopes to showcase our writers, publishers, and agents who are working tirelessly to bring a positive light to Black Literature. As a publisher of African and Black content, we are always seeking submissions from up and coming talent.
Shareef Abdul-Malik founder of the We Buy Black Marketplace
Black Activists, movements, and Organizations
We currently have many of the mainstream movements going on that capture the attention of media, yet it's the activists who are in the streets daily doing things with their movements aimed at preserving the conservative principles, i.e. conservation of independent Black Culture, of our community that often times operate under the radar. Men and women who are actively changing the way we think, live, and operate towards a more progressive and forward thinking community are our champions and deserve to be recognized and showcased within.
Photo Property on One United Bank
Black Owned Businesses
From large to small, urban to rural and everything in between Black Business represents the most powerful gateway to true Black Progress in America. Supporting Black Businesses supports the Black Community. By supporting ourselves we give the community a foundation from which it can continue to grow and spark change and Progress.