It is imperative that communities understand the importance of coming together to address systemic racism and inequality. It is equally important for communities to understand that there is work for us to do together and there is also work that needs to be done in our own salient communities. Organizing in communities where we have historically been left out of the conversation, left out of history, and often ignored, and seen as a problem is not easy. Therefore, it is imperative that White communities learn to break down white walls that hinder the success of Racially diverse people and organizations.
Saturday, October 30, 10:30 am via Zoom. Register.
Jazzma Holland serves as the Director of the Upward Bound pre-college program at the University of Wisconsin La Crosse and as a co-founder and secretary of Black Leaders Acquiring Collective Knowledge. Jazzma has served in various areas around La Crosse, including working with the YWCA, UWL’s Black Student Unity, performing and hosting at the annual Martin Luther King Jr. celebration, and hosting her podcast called AllThatJazz which highlights the voices of Black residents of the Coulee Region. Conversations range from mentorship, Black news, mental health and more. Jazzma is passionate about helping young Black and Brown girls realize their potential while giving them tools to help them reach their goals.
Shaundel Spivey serves as the Executive Director of Black Leaders Acquiring Collective Knowledge (B.L.A.C.K.). He is a community organizer and very passionate about social justice, equity, and community. Shaundel is someone who serves in many capacities in this community and is always willing to share his knowledge and experience to help the community and others. Shaundel currently serves on the School District of La Crosse school Board. He serves as a Racial Justice Training consultant in the community. He also serves on the Governors Equity and Inclusion Council. In 2015 Shaundel Co-founded the Organization Black Leaders Acquiring Collective Knowledge. The purpose of this organization was to build space and opportunities for Black people in this community, especially Black youth to feel empowered and knowledgeable about their power and significance in this community.