Ajena Rogers, Supervisory Park Ranger at the Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site, highlights the collaborative efforts that substantiate the legacy of Jackson Ward. She amplifies the stories of historic community members and how their approach provides a blueprint for present day leaders, entrepreneurs and change makers.
Read MoreCommunity advocates, Bishop Ernest Moore, Jr. and Flossie Moore, reflect on their longstanding connection to the Blackwell neighborhood through education. Both attribute their foundation as Black leaders to the teachers and administrators at Blackwell Primary and Blackwell Elementary Schools.
Read MoreAmy Wentz, community advocate, co-founder of Richmond Black Restaurant Experience, and member of the Blackwell’s Voices Research Team, emphasizes the importance of formally recognizing contributions of our Black leaders. She specifically shares highlights about the life of James H. Blackwell, principal of the first African American school in Richmond
Read MoreFree Bangura shares how the lack of African-centered experiences and knowledge of ancestral narratives help drive her creation of Untold RVA and Untold Tours. Watch highlights from Untold RVA presents BROTHER GENERAL GABRIEL, which was created in response to the submersion of a significant story of Black determination and freedom.
Read MoreOmilade Janine Bell, President and Artistic Director of Elegba Folklore Society, discusses the importance of sharing the origin story of Richmond's enslaved African people and how this experience and legacy have become a large part of the work she continues to do today.
Read MoreBeing a part of changing the historical landscape of Richmond has given me confidence and a sense of belonging to this place even though the last time one of my ancestors was in Richmond, she was for sale. Learning and sharing the history is energizing because I’ve seen it turn lights on in people’s eyes.
Read More“There is so much power in that act of directing people to spend their dollars within the Black Community. ”
Read More“A part of being a transplant here and falling in love with Richmond is recognizing that within our culture, there’s a need to unify and extend the olive branch to bridge our businesses. ”
Read More“BLK RVA is where we share those expressions of our identity, celebrate each other, and expose the world to the beauty of our culture.”
Read More“We have a rich history here and an exciting future.”
Read More“BLK RVA is establishing ourselves as part of the regular rotation of in this city. ”
Read More“When I hear BLK RVA, it makes me think about Black entrepreneurship, Black excellence in my city, our intellect, style, and evolution. I feel like the fabric of BLK RVA is woven into each of us. I love it. ”
Read More“I now know a little bit more about my family’s journey, and my ancestor’s journey. There’s this pride that I feel to be who I am in this city with my peers, making Richmond better, and embodying all that we hope RVA will accomplish. ”
Read More“Richmond’s Black community, we make room for everyone—all races, sexes, orientations. That’s what Blackness represents. It’s an energy, a feel, a love for one another as we live our best life. Blackness is an indescribable energy that takes over a room or park, or wherever we get together. So BLK RVA is all of that in one. It’s home.”
Read More“There’s still a lot of things that need to be done, but I’m just proud of Black RVA and what we’ve been able to do over the past few decades and even longer. When I talk about the music and cultural scene, I’m proud of where we are, how we’re handling our business, and holding up our end of the bargain.”
Read More“BLK RVA means supporting various forms of Black businesses and brands, and finding opportunities to volunteer for community-based efforts that support Black children, Black families, and Black communities.”
Read MoreThe Elegba Folklore Society is a year-round, lively celebration of African and African American culture. Enjoy art and imports in their cultural center. Sway with the performance company in the warmth and feel of an African village.
Read MoreAdiva Naturals’ mission is to provide natural, safe and effective personal care and lifestyle products to the consumer. Their goal is to educate and enhance the life our consumers by offering handmade and healthy alternatives to the synthetic and potentially dangerous products.
Read More“BLK RVA really feels like we’re a part of that upward mobility and new momentum that’s taking place in the city, and we’re a taking part of what Richmond’s becoming. BLK RVA acknowledges Black people’s place in the new and emerging Richmond.”
Read More“BLK RVA means that Richmond recognizes and encourages the celebration of cultural differences. Our individual and collective connections are enriched when we create spaces for all to celebrate ancestral traditions and create new ones in the Melting Pot that is America.”
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