“It was a great conversation that explored the connection of art and justice in a profoundly moving and meaningful way."
In 2020, following the murder of George Floyd, JDPP launched ‘A Response and A Call’ as a dedicated platform for artists of color to address the challenges, joys, and realities of living and working in a racially divided America through dialogue, performance, and visual art. Named after the oral tradition of the West African "call and response" song form, the series has brought more than a dozen guest artists into conversation with JDPP audiences and each other. Audiences are encouraged to engage in the discussion and respond to the idea of a call to action: What can each of us do to end racism in America?
'A Response and a Call’ is curated and hosted by longtime JDPP Ensemble dancer and teaching artist, Mellissa Craig, who also serves as JDPP's Diversity Coordinator since 2022. Mellissa invites R & C guests to respond to such topics as Black struggle, joy, resilience, and hope as they navigate the complicated landscape of life in America. Audiences are encouraged to engage in the discussion and respond to the idea of a call to action on these issues. The series began as virtual presentations and August 2023 marked its move to both in-person and online.
An ongoing list of suggested readings to further understanding of the issues has emerged from the series.
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JDPP, Inc. is a 501c(3) organization.