equity

The design industry is lacking diverse voices and experiences, specifically Black voices and experiences. As an ally and designer that is a part of this system, I’m working to speak up and do the work to change the broken systems we see with the lack of equity and opportunity for and representation of Black creators. Part of that work is through Where are the Black Designers. From the WATBD website:

Where are the Black Designers is an initiative and platform for Black designers. By connecting designers, educators, and creative leaders we host a dialogue about change, both in and out of the design industry. 

From Cheryl D. Miller’s 1987 PRINT Magazine article, “Black Designers Missing in Action,” to today, there is an entire legacy and lineage of black designers searching for answers which cannot and should not be ignored.

Where are the Black Designers takes Cheryl's work, as well as Maurice Cherry's 2015 SXSW presentation, and builds upon them to provide solutions to this rhetorical question. This year there is a sense of urgency and attention around the lack of representation in the design industry — this is so important. As we push forward together we must be mindful of the past and strategic about the future. Make no mistake: this is a movement, not a moment.

Please reach out if you want to join WATBD or have any interest in partnering with us to mentor or hire Black creatives and designers, or even just to join in the conversation and be a part of this community. We all have the responsibility to stand up and speak out, let’s get to work.