Celebrating Black and Queer Creativity: Honoring Innovation and Foundation in Music Year-Round

The Intersection of Black and Queer Creativity: A Year-Round Festivity

“Everything you like was created by a queer person,” declared Aluna, the acclaimed musician and DJ, during a powerful panel discussion titled “The Power in Pride: A Conversation Honoring The Resilience Of Black Queer Creatives.” Her words, though bold, resonate deeply when examining the cultural and artistic contributions of queer individuals throughout history.

Similarly, the influence of Black creators is deeply embedded in the fabric of American culture. Ryan Butler, the Recording Academy’s VP of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), emphasized this, stating, “There is no pop music in America that is not a derivative of the Negro spiritual.” He added, “The queerness has been the innovation in it, but the Black community has been the foundation of it. So, I think when you have the foundation and the innovation together, it’s worth celebrating 365 days a year.”

These insights highlight two undeniable truths: the profound impact of Black and queer creators on our world, and the inadequacy of limiting their recognition to designated months like February for Black History Month or June for Pride and Black Music Month.As Butler aptly noted,honoring these communities requires a year-round commitment.

A Candid Conversation on Intersectionality

These themes were central to “The Power of Pride,” a thought-provoking panel held at the Live Nation building in Manhattan. Moderated by Tiffany Briggs Low, live Nation’s Director of Corporate and Communications, the discussion featured Aluna, Ryan Butler, and Bryant K. Von Woodson II,a communications expert and self-described “curator of people.”

briggs Low opened the conversation with a poignant question: “Why is it crucial for the world to continue celebrating both Pride and Black Music Month, and what does the intersectionality of black and queer identities mean to each of you?”

Aluna reflected on the significance of theme months, explaining, “They serve as a reset, a time to look internally, to assess what you’ve done and haven’t done, and how you feel.The queer community and the Black community have given so much, and my mission is for us to turn that around—to give back to ourselves. We create abundantly, but we need to be fed, and the well is running dry. That upsets me.”

for Aluna, a Black, straight ally of the queer community, this nourishment comes from creating spaces that foster “spirituality and deep, deep connection.”

Von Woodson II, who identifies as Black and queer, echoed this sentiment, paraphrasing Maya Angelou: “Between both communities, I stand as one, but I also really acknowledge the 10,000.” This reference to Angelou’s beliefs underscores the collective experiences of ancestors and communities that paved the way for today’s creators. “That’s what this month is about,” he continued. “Celebrating the 10,000 who got me here, who allowed me to sit on this stage, to have this conversation, and to speak about our lives and ourselves.”

Why Year-Round Recognition Matters

The panelists agreed that while theme months provide a valuable opportunity for reflection and celebration, they are not enough. The contributions of Black and queer creators are too vast and foundational to be confined to a single month.Their influence permeates every aspect of culture, from music and art to social movements and beyond.

Butler emphasized the need for sustained recognition, stating, “The foundation and innovation brought by these communities deserve to be celebrated every day. Their stories, struggles, and triumphs are integral to our collective history and future.”

Von Woodson II added, “We must move beyond performative gestures and create lasting change. This means amplifying voices, supporting initiatives, and fostering environments where Black and queer individuals can thrive.”

Moving Forward: A Call to Action

The conversation concluded with a call to action for individuals and organizations alike. Aluna urged, “We need to create spaces that not only celebrate but also sustain us. It’s about building a legacy that future generations can draw from.”

Butler echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of intentionality. “it’s not enough to celebrate during designated months. We must integrate these values into our daily lives and work towards a more inclusive and equitable world.”

Von Woodson II left the audience with a powerful reminder: “Every step we take towards recognition and inclusion is a step towards honoring those who came before us and paving the way for those who will follow.”

For Black and queer creators, the journey to recognition and respect is often fraught with challenges. Von Woodson II, a leading voice in discussions about identity and representation, speaks candidly about the hurdles he faces in corporate environments. “You shouldn’t be profiled in that type of way, and I definitely experience it in the corporate environment, still,” he shared.“I don’t think that it always feels like a safe space.”

Woodson’s experiences serve as a barometer for the broader struggles faced by marginalized individuals. “I know that there are other [people] who may feel this way, and so it also helps me make sure that I’m constantly applying pressure,” he added. His approach is rooted in authenticity,a quality he refuses to compromise,even in spaces that may not fully embrace it. “There is no hiding that I am clearly Black, but also queer,” he said, emphasizing his unapologetic presence. “As I work with my clients, and I work with new people, I think I show up as authentic as I can. And I just lay it on them and say, ‘You either take it or you don’t.’”

Aluna, a celebrated musician, shares similar frustrations, particularly regarding the music industry’s tendency to pigeonhole Black artists. “If I need to be an example of what’s possible for the next generation, they can’t just see me as Disclosure featuring Aluna, DJ Snake featuring aluna,Avicii featuring Aluna, as that gives the message that that’s all we’re worth,” she explained. “you can’t get booked as an artist in your own right, as they just don’t see you as an artist.”

She further critiques the industry’s selective appreciation of Black talent. “Managers across the board, bookers, labels — they’re just hankering after your essence, your soul,” Aluna said. Her words highlight the systemic barriers that frequently enough prevent Black and queer creators from being recognized for their full potential.

Why Year-Round Support Matters

The contributions of Black and queer creators extend far beyond designated months of recognition. Their influence permeates every corner of culture, from music and art to technology and activism. Yet, their work is often overlooked or undervalued. As Woodson and Aluna’s experiences illustrate, systemic barriers persist, making it essential to uplift these voices consistently.

“When you have the foundation and the innovation together, it’s worth celebrating every day,” said Butler, encapsulating the importance of continuous recognition. This sentiment underscores the need to move beyond performative gestures and embrace sustained support for Black and queer creators.

How to Make a Difference

• Amplify Voices: Actively seek out and support Black and queer creators in your community and beyond. Share their work, attend their events, and celebrate their achievements.
• Create Inclusive Spaces: Foster environments—whether in workplaces, social circles, or online platforms—where Black and queer individuals feel seen, heard, and valued.
• Educate Yourself: Dive into the rich history of Black and queer contributions. Understanding their impact can deepen your appreciation and inspire meaningful action.

As Aluna aptly put it, “We never stop creating.” By honoring and uplifting black and queer creators every day—not just during designated months—we ensure that their creativity and resilience continue to shape the world in profound ways.

The Power of Black and Queer Solidarity: A Celebration of Identity and Resilience

In a world where identity frequently enough becomes a battleground, the intersection of Blackness and queerness stands as a testament to resilience and creativity. A recent event, aptly titled “The Power In pride,” brought these themes to the forefront, creating a space for dialog, celebration, and unity. The gathering was not just a moment in time but a movement, echoing the need for solidarity beyond Pride Month.

One of the most striking moments came when a speaker addressed the systemic erasure of Black identity in spaces that benefit from Black creativity.“But without your Blackness,” she said, her words cutting through the noise to highlight the ongoing struggle for recognition and respect. This sentiment resonated deeply, underscoring the importance of preserving and celebrating Black identity in all its forms.

The conversation also delved into the colonial separation between Blackness and queerness, a divide that continues to impact communities today. “The colonial separation between Blackness and queerness is something we need to dismantle,” asserted another participant. this call to action was a reminder of the work still needed to bridge these identities and create a more inclusive future.

Amidst these powerful discussions, the topic of performative allyship was also addressed. One speaker, Butler, offered a poignant reminder of the responsibilities that come with privilege. “There are going to be times where you are going to have to shield me with your privilege that I don’t have,” he told the audience. His words served as a rallying cry for genuine allyship, urging individuals to use their privilege to uplift others.

Despite the weight of these topics, the event was far from somber. It was a vibrant celebration of resilience, creativity, and unity.As the discussion drew to a close, the atmosphere shifted. The beats grew louder, and the audience was energized to carry the spirit of Black and queer solidarity forward — not just during Pride Month, but every day of the year.

The success of the event was made possible through the collaboration of key partners, including Live Nation and Queer Capita.Their efforts ensured that the voices of Black and queer communities were amplified, celebrated, and heard. The Recording Academy extended its gratitude to these organizations, acknowledging their instrumental role in bringing this powerful event to life.

“The Power In Pride” was more than an event; it was a call to action. It reminded us of the importance of solidarity, the need to dismantle systemic barriers, and the power of celebrating identity in all its forms. As we move forward,let us carry this spirit with us,ensuring that the voices of Black and queer communities continue to be heard and celebrated.

What are some ways individuals and organizations can move beyond performative gestures and create lasting change for Black and queer creators?

The article you’ve shared is a powerful exploration of the intersectionality of Black and queer identities,emphasizing the profound cultural and artistic contributions of thes communities. It highlights the need for year-round recognition and support,moving beyond performative gestures during designated months like Black History Month or Pride Month. Here are some key takeaways and reflections from the piece:

key Themes and Takeaways:

1. Intersectionality and Resilience:

– The panel discussion, “The Power in pride: A Conversation Honoring the Resilience Of Black Queer Creatives,” underscores the importance of recognizing the dual identities of being black and queer.These identities are not separate but intertwined, each contributing to a rich tapestry of cultural innovation and resilience.

1. Cultural Contributions:

– Ryan Butler’s statement that “ther is no pop music in America that is not a derivative of the Negro spiritual” highlights the foundational role of Black creators in shaping American culture. Queer individuals have further innovated within this framework, making their contributions indispensable.

1. Year-Round Recognition:

– While theme months like February and June provide valuable opportunities for reflection and celebration, the panelists agree that the contributions of Black and queer creators deserve continuous recognition. Their influence is too vast and foundational to be confined to a single month.

1. Challenges in the Industry:

– Both Aluna and Bryant K. Von Woodson II share their personal experiences of systemic barriers in the music and corporate industries. Aluna critiques the music industry’s tendency to pigeonhole Black artists, while Woodson speaks to the challenges of being authentically Black and queer in corporate spaces.

1. Call to Action:

– The panelists urge individuals and organizations to move beyond performative gestures and create lasting change. This includes amplifying voices, fostering inclusive spaces, and educating oneself about the rich history of Black and queer contributions.

Reflections:

• Authenticity and Representation:

– The importance of authenticity in representation cannot be overstated. As woodson II notes,showing up authentically in corporate environments is a form of resistance and a way to pave the way for others who may feel marginalized.

• Systemic barriers:

– Aluna’s critique of the music industry sheds light on the systemic barriers that prevent Black and queer creators from being recognized for their full potential. This calls for a reevaluation of industry practices and a commitment to equitable representation.

• Sustained Support:

– The call for year-round support is crucial. It’s not enough to celebrate during designated months; sustained recognition and support are necessary to honor the contributions of Black and queer creators and to ensure their continued impact on culture and society.

How to Make a Difference:

1. Amplify Voices:

– Actively seek out and support Black and queer creators. Share their work, attend their events, and celebrate their achievements.

1. Create Inclusive Spaces:

– Foster environments were black and queer individuals feel seen, heard, and valued. This applies to workplaces, social circles, and online platforms.

1. Educate Yourself:

– Dive into the rich history of Black and queer contributions. Understanding their impact can deepen your appreciation and inspire meaningful action.

1. Advocate for Change:

– Support initiatives and policies that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. Advocate for systemic changes that address the barriers faced by Black and queer creators.

By honoring and uplifting Black and queer creators every day, we ensure that their creativity and resilience continue to shape the world in profound ways. As Aluna aptly put it, “We never stop creating.” let’s make sure we never stop supporting.