For Immediate Release
Jan. 30, 2024
BALTIMORE – CLLCTIVLY today announced the return of its second annual ‘28 Days of Black Futures.’ The crowdfunding campaign is designed to advance narrative power, platform local artists, and raise funds for Black-led social change entities in Baltimore. It coincides with Black History Month, but offers a unique spin. In addition to focusing on Black historical figures who no doubt made a difference, CLLCTIVLY will spotlight local artists who will incorporate the principles of Nguzo Saba. Each artist will write a cypher, one for each day of February. The effort will be produced by Von Vargas, a multi-faceted musician, songwriter and DJ. JP Morgan Chase & Co. is a presenting sponsor.
“There can be no overstatement of the importance of music in propelling social and racial justice movements,” said CLLCTIVLY founder Jamye Wooten. “Music is incredibly important in fueling movements, raising critical issues and ensuring our communities feel seen and heard. We are excited because this effort will highlight the ingenuity within the Baltimore region, while giving Baltimore residents an opportunity to financially support Black-led changemakers.”
CLLCTIVLY will showcase local artists and their cyphers via its website, social media and press outreach. It will then host a culminating event on March 9 featuring these artists as well as the beneficiaries of the funds raised during the inaugural ‘28 Days of Black Futures’ campaign.
“Our community has a wealth of creative, trailblazing, and thoughtful leaders,” said Krystle Starvis, COO of CLLCTIVLY. “We rest on the shoulders of those who came before us, and will intentionally honor the past, the present and future. We are excited to platform local changemakers and invest in their work and vision. 28 Days of Black Futures will enable us to do just that.”
Sometimes the only thing that determines how high a person ascends, or how much they can accomplish, is the resources and support they receive from their family and community. And historically, Black business owners have struggled to raise capital and start, grow and sustain their businesses. “This project will enable all people – persons who live in and outside of Baltimore – to make donations of any amount and fuel the work of changemakers.”
“CLLCTIVLY is determined to ensure that no dream is deferred by raising funds and investing in Black-led organizations and changemakers,” Wooten concluded.
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CLLCTIVLY is a place-based, social change organization that centers Black genius, narrative power, social networks and resource mobilization. It was developed following the death of Freddie Gray, who died in police custody on Feb. 2015.