Channeling Our Inner Artivist

The Ethel Walker School has a long-standing tradition of honoring Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by facilitating a day of programming to celebrate his life and legacy. This year merged the intersection of art and activism under the theme “Channeling Our Inner Artivist,” providing us the opportunity to reflect on how we as a community can use our creativity to challenge systemic oppression and inspire positive change in the world.

Under the guidance of Walker’s Assistant Director of Social Justice and Inclusion as well as Assistant Head for Student Life and Director of Social Justice and Inclusion Elisa Del Valle, the day began with a presentation from students of inspirational artivists they love, followed by a keynote address from award-winning writer, activist, and educator Dariana Guerrero. Dariana shared her artivism through spoken word and later led two workshops to further engage with our community. 

Following the keynote, students, faculty, and staff participated in student-led workshops on dancing, creating music, painting, weaving, craftivism, and so much more. We are so proud of the students who facilitated these sessions and want to celebrate their diligence and commitment to leading in our community: Bright A. ’29, Paula A. ’25, Addy H. ’25, Izzy H. ’25, Shyanne H. ’26, Val L. ’25, Brianna M. ’26, Zia S. ’29, and Luran (Amy) Y. ’25, as well as Laurie MacAlpine P’08 and Kim Harris Thacker P’24, ’27, who continue to contribute their brilliance to our community. This day would not have been possible without the commitment and inspiration of our Assistant Director of Social Justice and Inclusion, who worked tirelessly to ensure students, faculty, and staff had what they needed to fully engage and be their best artivists.

It was a powerful and empowering day to honor Dr. King’s legacy and continue the work of justice and equity through creativity and activism. The curiosity, passion, and dedication of our community was truly inspiring. Please visit campus to see some of the artwork created outside of the Ward and Williams Center for Equity and Justice and watch the highlight video from the day below.