ATLANTA — This Black History Month, 11Alive highlighted those who dared dream and disrupted the status quo in Atlanta by looking at past leaders and those carrying the torch from the present into tomorrow.
Here's a look at all the stories featured in our one-hour special DREAM x DISRUPT: Black Atlanta's Bold Movement to mark Black History Month. Click here for an interactive look at all of our coverage.
Explore how Atlanta became a center of Black education, economics and politics and how its Black leaders collaborated to create change.
Dr. Bernice King, daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and a civil rights leader herself, said Black leaders in Atlanta would then frequently work with business leaders and other people of influence to make change.
"We have been a city that literally was too busy to hate and did not let anything like hatred and racism stand in the way of rising to an occasion," King said.
Introducing three Atlanta leaders who are continuing the Civil Rights Movement that past pioneers started. Read and watch how they push the need for unity and collaboration among different approaches to achieve justice and freedom.
- Congresswoman Nikema Williams - She succeeded John Lewis in Congress and is pushing for voting rights and economic equality.
- Atlanta activist Scotty Smart - He is a vocal community organizer who wants to empower others to show up and hold leaders accountable.
- Georgia NAACP President Gerald Griggs - He leads the civil rights organization that fights against hate and racial intolerance.
Meet Master Teacher Ruquanda Epps-Primas. She works at the B.E.S.T. Academy, an acronym for "Best, Engineering, Science and Technology," a school primarily serving young Black men, emphasizing academic excellence and preparing students for college and careers. Learn how she fosters a classroom environment where students are inspired to reach their full potential, addressing real-world issues and cultivating empathy, creativity, and innovation.
Beyond teaching, Epps-Primas is a mentor and motherly figure, guiding her students toward becoming future leaders and history-makers. Recognized for her impactful work, Epps-Primas instills in her students a belief in their ability to effect change, with the school gaining popularity as students eagerly join the waitlist to be a part of this transformative educational experience.
Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon, affectionately known as Dr. Key, leads an inspiring initiative toward Black excellence and wealth creation inside Atlanta's Ponce City Market. As the CEO & President of The Village Retail, Dr. Key is on a mission to position Black-owned brands front and center for global buyers.
With over 30 brands showcased, The Village Retail has become a beacon of support and empowerment for talented entrepreneurs, collectively generating an impressive $8.3 million in direct sales. With optimism fueled by the projection of Black buying power reaching $1.8 trillion in 2024, The Village Retail stands as a testament to the transformative potential of collective wealth-building and representation.
Atlanta, renowned as the Hollywood of the South and the epicenter of hip-hop culture, embodies Black excellence and serves as a beacon of the Civil Rights Movement.
11Alive's Neima Abdulahi delves into Atlanta's status as a hub of Black innovation across music, media, and the arts with interviews with four influential Black creatives: Grammy-winning producer Bryan-Michael Cox, music executive Ray Daniels, brand manager Keith Dorsey and creative director Marina Skye.
From Cox's belief in pushing boundaries to Skye's unapologetic promotion of Black creativity, each voice underscores the bold spirit driving Atlanta's cultural landscape.
Inspired by historical icons like C.T. Vivian. Julius Thomas and Remington Role lead The People's Uprising, a grassroots organization born in the aftermath of George Floyd's murder. Initiatives like Votelanta by Julius Thomas and Remington Role encourage voter registration through nonpartisan concerts.
Despite a significant number of registered Black voters, voter turnout remains low, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for voting rights. Reflecting on historical challenges, Al Vivian highlights the persistent threats and intimidation faced by African Americans. Thomas and Role continue the mission, advocating for change amidst contemporary issues like voter suppression tactics. As Georgia approaches another presidential election, these leaders are committed to amplifying every voice in the democratic process.
The fight for women's suffrage in the U.S. ran alongside the abolition movement. As such, Black women found themselves at the intersection of the fight for both freedoms.
Today, Black women continue their work, aiming for equity and civic engagement.
Take in this history lesson and learn about the pioneering suffragettes who laid the groundwork.
Isaiah Smith is breaking barriers with Our Culture Brewing, inspired by a rich heritage and a vision for the future. With less than 1% of breweries Black-owned, Smith's venture aims to celebrate African-American culture through innovative brews sourced from local Black farms. Christina Hylton, owner of Iron Lion Farm, embodies this vision, honoring ancestors while stewarding the land.
The landscape for Black business owners is evolving, with organizations like the Atlanta Black Chambers fostering connections and opportunities. Through collective action and support, Smith envisions a future where Black businesses thrive, leaving a legacy of resilience and unity. Join us in celebrating these stories of innovation and empowerment during Black History Month.
Celebrating Black History playlist
11Alive invites you to embark on a journey of unapologetic stories that have shaped Atlanta's past, present and future this Black History Month. Check out our collection of stories: "DREAM x DISRUPT: Black Atlanta's Bold Movement" at 11alive.com/blackhistory