Photo by Whitney Browne
I recently attended a talk about arts and activism at the University of Richmond with Camille A. Brown, a black, female choreographer. I always feel like a fraud in both my arts and activism realms because I am not the most out spoken in either category, so it was a big step just for me to attend. I was excited to hear what she had to share because of the potential impact on our society and culture the topic. In the end, I felt empowered to stay committed to the actions I take to make our society and culture better and more equal.
Camille’s work is committed to African American culture and experience. It is important to me to learn about experiences of people of color so I can be more aware of the struggles different people face. Camille had some powerful sound bites emphasized by her unassuming presence. I expected a formal lecture, but it was just a small section of the U of R library with chairs set up. No slides. No microphone. She remained seated and had a conversation with the audience of less than thirty people. She was candid and funny, and she nurtured an open, thoughtful conversation.
It wasn’t a primer of how to incorporate arts into activism so much as it was a reminder to be true to yourself. If we could all do that and respect other’s paths, we might be in a much better societal and cultural situation! Here’s three things Camille said that really stuck with me as powerful statements of self, humanity, and strength.
WALK ON YOUR PATH WHETHER PEOPLE AGREE OR NOT
This was her response to what she thought activism meant. She added that it was “activating the spirit of yourself and the community.” I loved the inclusion of community. It requires consideration for the people around you and the people that you affect to make an impact. It means supporting everyone’s voice and value.
Currently, two-thirds of my clientele are women owned, local businesses. I am especially happy to work with these lady hustlers. I am inspired by their motivation and vision. They are all great examples of business women in Richmond. And although they aren’t outright protesting to gain more equality, the act of owning a business positions them as examples for future women to do the same and more.
YOU CAN APPROPRIATE THE STEP - YOU CAN’T APPROPRIATE THE SPIRIT
Camille said this when someone asked about people stealing choreography from her. She also emphasized the need to stay driven and to continue to create beyond each achievement. The commitment to stay motivated ensures improvement over time. It won’t matter if the haters hate or stealers steal. What matters is your spirit continues to live in each and every thing you create.
Now, marketing is not a deeply meaningful industry, but I sure as hell am proud of everything I create. Whether it’s a fleeting Instagram story or keepsake poster, I put my best into it. AND I CAN because I am valued by the people I work with.
I’M NOT INTERESTED IN ASSIMILATION
Camille does not want to blend in or be like everyone else. These were the words that inspired me to write this blog. When she said those words, I thought of all the times I wanted to blend in and be like everyone else. It exhausting to explain yourself to people, and this felt like a confident, succinct way to remind myself that it’s ok.
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in my career is worrying what other people think. Choosing jobs because people will be impressed by my title or benefits package made getting through life easier. I am not made to work in an office, and I don’t excel in that atmosphere. It’s taken a long time to be true to myself and take the risk to live this freelance life. It still feels like a risk every day, but it also feels worth it every day.
So turns out, this talk on arts and activism was an inspiring reminder to commit to yourself and continually stay committed. It’s something that’s important to me in life, business, and relationships of all kinds. Thank you Camille A. Brown for your candor and thoughtful words. You are inspiring in so many ways!