Our Vision
To help end systemic racism in the Atlanta Black community, we pioneered a design-thinking methodology called Empower Blackness to engage Atlanta-based changemakers with opportunities to Celebrate Blackness, Elevate Blackness, Uplift Blackness and Unleash Blackness. We believe this approach will build trust among the local Black community and more effectively measure impact. This collective will include a steering committee and working groups to identify the racial inequality gaps and the specific needs of the local Black: residents, professionals, businesses and neighborhoods. Atlanta (x)Black will be a league of changemakers working to end systemic racism.
Four Pillars
The four pillars below, Celebrate, Elevate, Uplift and Unleash, represent how we will empower the Black community.
Celebrate
Atlanta (x)Black will celebrate our Black community’s accomplishments and highlight their successes. Celebrations such as the ‘John Lewis Tribute’ will create opportunities for changemakers to show up and connect with creators, empowering them to build strong partnerships.
Elevate
Whether it is a teen graduating from high school or a professional starting a new job, Atlanta (x)Black will help elevate the social advancement of individuals in the Black community.
Uplift
Transition is difficult. Whether negotiating a divorce, grieving a loss, or navigating the immigration system, Atlanta (x)Black will provide those in transition with guidance and resources.
Unleash
We understand the stigma often faced by people impacted by the criminal justice system. As these individuals prepare to rebuild their lives, Atlanta (x)Black will connect them with programming like ‘The Last Mile’ and help them chart a path to community integration and job opportunities.
Why Atlanta?
Atlanta, incorporated in 1847, has become the economic capital of the Southeast and is one of the largest and fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States. Several Fortune 500 companies, including Coca-Cola, Home Depot, UPS, Equifax and Southern Company currently have their global headquarters in Atlanta. It is even a center for television and film production! Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport is the busiest airport in the world.
The Phoenix, the Egyptian symbol of resurrection and rebirth, represents Atlanta’s rise from the ashes of the Civil War to flourish. It has become the home of the Civil Rights Movement, an international city and a major culture and entertainment hub, attracting millions of national and international visitors each year to enjoy a wide array of music, sports and arts attractions.
More than six million residents call Atlanta home, and with 57 colleges and universities in the Atlanta region attracting talented creators every year. Atlanta is a great market to build a collective of powerful changemakers across the social, public and private sectors.
