As we close out 2024, I find myself filled with profound gratitude for the incredible progress we’ve made and the continued support of our community. Reflecting on over 22 years of serving BIPOC artists, I am deeply thankful for the partnerships that have sustained our mission and empowered us to make a meaningful impact.
This year, we welcomed several key individuals to our leadership team, each of whom will play an important role in advancing our work in the years ahead. Katy Peña Moonan, co-founder of Paper City Clothing in Holyoke, joins our board, bringing a wealth of experience in business development and community engagement. Katy’s expertise will be invaluable as we expand our grant-writing efforts and strengthen our organizational capacity.
We are also excited to continue our longstanding collaboration with Britt Ruhe, Executive Director of Commonwealth Murals. Britt’s dedication to public art and community-driven projects has been a cornerstone of our initiatives, including the Nelson Stevens Legacy Project. These projects continue to celebrate and uplift local talent, and I look forward to the new opportunities we will create together.
Looking ahead, I am excited for the upcoming Kwanzaa celebrations and the unveiling of the 2024-25 Kwanzaa stamp by my friend and colleague, Ekua Holmes. This beautiful stamp represents the heart of our community’s creativity and cultural heritage. I look forward to sharing and celebrating this work with our audience.
As always, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to just some of the organizations and individuals whose financial support makes our work possible. We are deeply thankful to the Mass Cultural Council, the Springfield Cultural Council, the Springfield Cultural Partnership, the Barr Foundation, the Community Foundation of Western Mass, as well as our long-time corporate sponsors: TSM Design, Smokey Joe’s, Nosh, Tower Square Management and many others. Their generosity allows us to continue uplifting and supporting BIPOC artists and arts initiatives. I would also like to recognize the African American Point of View for their ongoing support in amplifying our work through their publications. Finally, I would like to recognize our newly elected Ambassadors, Friends of the Gallery, and faithful volunteers, particularly Dr. Gloria Caballer-Acre, whose years of commitment to our mission has been unwavering.
As I reflect on the talented artists, community leaders, and supporters who have joined me on this journey, I am reminded of how fortunate we are to be surrounded by such inspiring individuals. There is no shortage of work ahead, but with the continued support of our community, I am confident in the bright future of our organization.
Please stay tuned for the second part of this “Dare to Transition” in the January issue of POV, where I will introduce more exciting developments along with the people who are helping to shape our future.
Wishing you all a peaceful and joyful holiday season and a prosperous 2025. ■