New York, New York – Continuing its efforts to amplify the voices of social justice philanthropists of color, Bridge Philanthropic Consulting (BPC) has published its second position paper in series The Iconic Impact Initiative: W.A.P.: Women And Protest.
The work highlights 12 Black women who are leveraging their celebrity, platforms, resources, and influence to fight injustice and advance anti-racism. They have chosen to stand up for the cause of equity and justice at this crucial moment of racial reckoning across the United States and around the globe.
W.A.P.: Women And Protest examines how these American women are utilizing their voices as influential citizens, artists and social justice leaders to be positive forces for change: Rihanna, Beyoncé, Ava DuVernay, Kerry Washington, Shonda Rhimes, Oprah Winfrey, Viola Davis, Meghan Markle, Megan Thee Stallion, Cardi B, Lizzo, and Naomi Campbell.
“Black women have often walked the proverbial tightrope of being stereotyped as an ‘angry black woman’ because they courageously speak up, speak out and refuse to be silenced in the face of injustice—in any form,” said Tashion Macon, Ph.D., BPC Partner, Culturalist and W.A.P.: Women and Protest co-author.
“It is difficult to constantly be demeaned as tyrannical when your children, your family, your community, and your ‘climb’ are perpetually threatened. But even still, a clarion call went out. DJ Beverly Bond reminded us of our magic, Beyoncé called us into formation, and we rose to the occasion. The W.A.P. Women And Protest position paper is the announcement of a trade wind—the kind of wind that turns the tide.”
The Iconic Impact Initiative series is part of Circa64, BPC’s recently announced Social Justice Practice.
The nation’s largest full-service African-American owned social justice, social change, and fundraising firm, BPC created the series to explore the historical nature of multicultural philanthropy and modern-day leaders of color who have built a foundation of giving.
From ordinary individuals to the most famous pop-culture icons, African Americans and Hispanic Americans have been leaders in charitable giving—not only providing generous monetary contributions, but also innovating ways to empower worthwhile causes.
”W.A.P.: Women and Protest, showcases how Black women are leveraging their platform on the world stage to build a culture of philanthropy and advocacy for social justice. With an African-American woman as the first Madam Vice President, history is being made,” said Vivian Pickard, CEO of Pickard Group, BPC Advisory Board member and former Fortune 100 foundation chief.
“Black women keep lifting their voices despite the challenges and barriers that threaten to block their path. It is a virtue for which society owes a debt of gratitude.”
Visit the BPC website here to download and read W.A.P.: Women And Protest, written by BPC partners Tashion Macon, Ph.D., and Jennifer Jiles, (also Professor of Communication, Georgia State University), and president/CEO Dwayne Ashley.
