“Complexion: Exploring the Experiences of Black Female Creatives in Corporate America”

In conversation with NPR staff Taylor Ash, Ashley Pointer, Alante Serene, and Sommer Hill.

“ Being a black person in today’s climate can fill like a task of its own” - Kia Johnson

On February 17th, 2023, I had the privilege of leading a curated conversation on the topic of "Complexion” in honor of Black History Month.

The discussion focused on the experiences of Black female creatives in corporate America, and the aim was to create a safe space for these women to share their unique stories and feelings on this important topic.

The conversation was truly powerful, as all of the participants were open and honest in sharing their experiences. It was inspiring to see these women connect and support each other, and to witness the bonds that formed over the course of the discussion.

As the facilitator of the conversation, my goal was to explore real topics and questions and to provide opportunities for everyone to connect and share their stories. It was important to me that the conversation be meaningful and impactful, and that everyone felt heard and understood.

The experiences of Black female creatives in corporate America are often complex and nuanced. These women often face unique challenges and barriers, including unconscious bias, microaggressions, and systemic racism. It's important to create spaces where these experiences can be shared and discussed, as this can help to raise awareness and drive change.

As a society, we need to do better when it comes to addressing issues of race and diversity in the workplace. We need to create more inclusive and equitable environments, where everyone feels valued and supported. This starts with listening to the experiences of those who have been marginalized and working to address the root causes of inequality.

In conclusion, the "Complexion" conversation was a powerful reminder of the importance of creating safe spaces for marginalized voices to be heard. It was a privilege to facilitate this discussion and to witness the connections that were made. As we move forward, we must continue to work towards creating more inclusive and equitable workplaces, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.