About Us

Black in Mayberry is primarily focused on addressing the systemic and institutional racism that robs, burdens and disrupts the lives of Black people in the United States of America. Through the application of art and education we strive for political, social, economic and legal change.

We believe that art is a powerful tool for encouraging discourse, educating minds and changing hearts. Through creative collaborations with artists and activists we intend to expose, discuss, evaluate current systems and doctrines that uphold racism whether direct or indirect.

A group of supporters at a Black In Mayberry event.

Our Values

A group of supports taking a photo together at a Black In Mayberry event.

Participants posing excitedly at a Black In Mayberry event

Artistic Power

We believe in the limitless potential of Black artists & activists and thus invest in creating opportunities where socially conscious art can impact our society and contribute to the elimination of racism.

Embracing Diversity

We recognize that there are intrinsic experiences that vary for different individuals and groups. We seek to have all voices and experiences within the Black community heard.

Community

We believe in the value of healthy, constructive relationships between members of our community, and do our part to contribute to the upliftment of the Black community.

Collaboration

We believe in the power of many and seek positive collaborations with other people and organizations to forward the fight against racism.

Authenticity

We foster creativity in our community, artists, and activities, emphasizing fluidity and flexibility to explore new ideas and create innovative solutions.

Joy

Despite our mission being one that is extremely serious we seek joy in our activities as a healthy means of healing and sustaining our community.

From Our Founder

Racism has been an ever present overbearing disrupter and destroyer of Black lives. While our ancestors fought much to achieve some legally recognized human and civil rights, systemic racism pursues. Racism takes lives, destroys communities and subjugates Black people to extreme inequality and countless daily injustices.

As we fight for the right to live with dignity and in peace, our cries for change are often brushed aside, hushed or ignored. Black in Mayberry utilizes the arts to ensure that Black voices are heard, and our demands for justice and equality are kept at the forefront of America’s conscience.

Art has the power to inspire change, ignite action, provide comfort, encouragement and strength in the darkest hours and immense joy in the celebration of obstacles overcome. Art has been a constant friend to the Black community, a safe space for boundless creativity and excellence to flourish and the purest expression of being Black.

Tanya Taylor

Founder & Executive Director

Denise Harris

Secretary of the Board of Directors

From Our Board

At the height of the pandemic, there was still no vaccine. Across America, people took to the streets to protest the brutal murders of black people by police and white nationalists. “No Justice! No Peace!”, “Say their names!”, “This is what democracy looks like!” My son, Wayne, joined me as we hit the streets in solidarity. Masked and determined, the marches were invigorating, and the marchers were a cross-section of society. Without hesitation, I accepted Tanya Taylor’s invitation to join her for the first protest march in El Segundo, CA. the others that followed, and ultimately, the Black in Mayberry movement was born.

Black people in America have stories to tell. Stories of subtle, sometimes overt, racist microaggressions we seldom articulate. Nevertheless, the scar of insult has been struck. It is increasingly clear that black folks must tell our stories challenging the illusion that we live in a post-racial America. Far from it. What better and more natural way for the stories to be told than through the arts – visual and performing? It stimulates heart-to-heart dialogue, the only way actual change occurs. Sharing is healing. That is the mission of Black in Mayberry, and I am privileged to be a part of carrying it out.

Our Team