Blackness is not a cultural monolith; however, adhering to a socially constructed, single form of what it means to be “Black” is an illusive pressure felt and propagated by many.  These sociopolitical pressures, however illusory or imagined, have real implications on how those of us who identify as Black, experience ourselves and our relationships to each other. 

 

Rarely do people of African descent have the opportunity to explore the numerous ways we define and embody what it means to be Black exclusively among ourselves. What does it mean to be Black and occupy/live in the space at the intersections of gender identity, multiracial heritage, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status and other social identity markers—within the context of Blackness exclusively? How do we differentiate and come together? When and how do we show up in the various communities where we hold membership and take up roles—particularly when we also hold aspects of identity that aren’t typically included within the socially prescribed boundaries of what is considered “Black?” 

 

Kimberlé Crenshaw first coined the term, Intersectionality and describes it as “a lens through which you can see where power comes and collides, where it interlocks and intersects.” When applied specifically to Black identity, what might we want or need ‘Black Intersectionality’ to mean?

 

Shades of Black+ is an event designed to provide a space for collective discussion, exploration, and discovery among people of African descent. It is an opportunity to think together and unpack the various assumptions, truths, and unconscious dynamics embedded in representations, experiences, and differentiations that are often collapsed and erased by a single version of Blackness. We wish to reflect on what’s gained and what’s lost in light of what Nigerian author Chimamada Ngozi Adichie calls the “danger of a single Black story.” 

 

Shades of Black+ is sponsored by Group Relations International. Portions of this event will focus on exploring unconscious dynamics, meaning, analyzing the themes that emerge through a group relations/systems-psychodynamics lens. However, it is not required that attendees are familiar with group relations work. Those who are new to the ideas and concepts of group relations are encouraged to attend. 

 

This event does not formally require a fee to attend. However, in an effort to support opportunities for those interested in attending future group relations conferences, a donation contribution is encouraged at the time of registration.

 

 

 

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