Rooted & Rising

“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.”

“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.”

“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.”

Enjoli Moon and Dr. Sesha Joi Moon, co-creators of The JXN Project, elevate the longstanding legacy of Black pioneers in Jackson Ward and how our connection to their stories can propel us forward. They also clarify the origins of Black entrepreneurship, homeownership, and commerce in Richmond by way of urbanized enslavement during the 1700s and 1800s.

Samantha Willis, co-creator of the Unmasking Series, emphasizes the creativity, innovation, and resiliency of Black people and how these characteristics connect to a deeply rooted legacy of Black excellence in Jackson Ward. She also affirms Jackson Ward’s impact in the present day through revitalized opportunities for entrepreneurship, homeownership, and community building.

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.

Community 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.

Amy 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.

Free 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.

Omilade 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.

“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.”