A little over a month ago, I got to do a series of photo sessions. SITES a Smithsonian Institute program, created an exhibit that lauds the existence and breadth of Black Male Role models in the United States. Men of Change is the name of the exhibit. The Washington State Historical Society, applied to be part of the tour, two years before it was even available. It has since travelled on to it’s next location. This is what MaryMikel Stump had to say about it.

“I want to sing the praises from the rooftop! As you may well know, it’s really hard to find engaging, quality exhibitions that are... of the traveling variety. SITES is obviously known as a leader in this, but Men of Changefar exceeded our expectations. It is totally worth all the extra efforts. So many first time visitors to the museum. This is doing all that I’d hoped and more. What wonderful histories to be able to highlight!"

MaryMikel Stump, Director, Audience Engagement, Washington State Historical Society

There were more facets to this exhibit than the light box panels, and original art that accompanied the photos and information. There was an accompanying community engagement component that was headed by The Ford Fund, Men of Courage, is in place to encourage the communities within the cities the exhibit travels to. To increase awareness of the exhibit, as well as acknowledge the impact of local Men of Courage. The Tacoma Urban League in partnership with The Washington State Historical Society, chose a group of 13 black men who reflected the spirit of the Men of Courage exhibit. This is where I came in.

I went to a meeting held by The Ford Fund announcing the Men of Change barbershop challenge, and had gathered men from the Tacoma Area, I am not sure how I was on the list, honestly, but I saw a few people I knew. I was later asked to share my portfolio and contact information. I got to meet some of the administration from WSHS and put in a proposal for doing shots that would be exhibited for the final weeks of the Men of Change exhibit, and then would be hung permanently at The Tacoma Urban League. Woot woot!!!

The best part though was getting to talk with 13 different influential black men from the Tacoma area. I had met or seen a few of them, Tom Hilyard, Reverend Gregory Christopher, and had heard of Willie Stewart. Over two weeks we scheduled sessions and talked. Now I have 13 or so new friends, lol. Enjoy the photos and stop by The Tacoma Urban League to see the prints.

These black men are all making a difference in their neighborhoods, businesses, congregations, and homes. A few were busy doing things so that we could only get their official portrait and no post portrait quick shoot. Find out more about them all on Facebook. The best part of this was meeting other black men who are working to better their community. Check in and see where you can help.