Madison, WI USA

The YWCA Madison approached the Black Thought Project in 2020 interested in exploring Centering Blackness in public space and inviting creator Alicia Walters to provide keynote remarks during their Racial Justice Summit. Understanding the importance of the practice, they brought together several thought protectors and co-stewards and advocated with city leaders to pilot and then ensure a permanent home for the Black Thought Wall Madison. The wall has thus far been activated three times, including a ritual cleansing and continues to be a site of practice, reflection and celebration for the Black community in the midst of rampant gentrification. Photos by Vernon Brown and Amadou Kromah. Read more about their experience here.