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Amia Barrow-Jordan
Our differences don't divide us they enrich the body of Christ
"There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." Galatians 3:28
Mission of the Project
Mission of the Project
The mission of this project is to expose, challenge, and ultimately help dismantle the systemic mistreatment and underrepresentation of African American dancers in the dance industry. By amplifying their voices, honoring their contributions, and advocating for equity, we should aim to foster a more inclusive and respectful dance culture that celebrates the richness of Black artistry, identity, and movement.
copy_23A84604-4569-4CF6-981B-6724CAF353A5.MOVBeyond the Spotlight: The Fight for Equality in Dance
Beyond the Spotlight: The Fight for Equality in Dance
This video explores the systemic mistreatment and underrepresentation of African American dancers in the dance industry. Through powerful dance clips, thought provoking statistics, and personal interviews with dancers, this video sheds light on the challenges they face and the resilience they demonstrate in an industry that often overlooks their contributions.
About Me
About Me
Hi everyone! My name is Amia Barrow-Jordan, and I’ve been dancing since I was 4 years old at the Roxbury Center for the Performing Arts. Dance has always been my passion and one of my greatest loves. I’m trained in a variety of styles, including hip hop, ballet, tap, jazz, modern, African, pointe, and contemporary.
Growing up in an all African American dance school, I was fortunate to be surrounded by incredible opportunities and constantly encouraged to carry myself like a professional, even at a young age. However, as I got older, I began to realize that not all dancers who look like me receive the same support or access to those same opportunities.
That realization inspired me to speak out and shine a light on the inequities that exist within the dance industry. Talent is talent regardless of race or skin color and it’s time the industry reflects that truth.
TAKE ACTION!!
There are two big organizations that offer meaningful opportunities to African American dancers.
1.) Brown Girls Do Ballet (BGDB): donations, volunteering, spreading the word
Founded by Takiyah Wallace-McMillian in 2013, BGDB addresses the lack of representation of Black dancers in ballet. The organization provides scholarships, supplies, mentorship, and a directory of Black-friendly studios to support aspiring dancers. BGDB also offers crowdfunding support and has created a community-driven platform to ensure that Black dancers have access to the resources they need to succeed.
https://www.browngirlsdoballet.com/become-a-sponsor/
2.) The International Association of Blacks in Dance (IABD): donations, sponsorship's, events, volunteering
The IABD is the leading national organization dedicated to preserving and promoting dance by people of African ancestry. It offers a range of programs, including an annual conference, scholarships, mentorship opportunities, and advocacy initiatives aimed at increasing visibility and opportunities for Black dancers. The IABD also works to dismantle systemic barriers and promote equity within the dance community.
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