A beautiful, perfect event

Thank you to those families and community members who attended the Power and Privilege speaker series with George McCalman in conversation with Mohammed Soriano-Bilal. The evening was filled with such insight, inspiration, and rich dialogue.

Many thanks to Michlene and Sergio for making this vision into a reality that was so special, inspirational, and vital; to the team of staff and students for making the night warm and inviting; to Cindy Metcalfe and Tina Blas for the incredible array of snacks and refreshments; and to those who attended, bought books, and supported this incredible event. 

As a school community hidden in the woods, and as a predominantly white institution, it is our responsibility to not just perform allyship, but to embody it by showing up when opportunities to witness arise and to genuinely put our money where our mouth is by actually living the values of antiracism and diversity, equity, and inclusion. George McCalman’s discussion of his process, experiences with the art within his book and the Black figures represented inside is a reminder and a call to action to all of us!

Our community is so lucky and grateful to have had this opportunity in our very own space.

We look forward to future speaker events from the Power and Privilege team!

From the event’s organizer, and Brightworks collaborator, Michlene:

Dear Parents, Students & Community Friends -

Earlier this year, I had a vision in my mind where the smooth sounds of soul played as parents and staff sipped wine and ate elegant hors d'oeuvres while awaiting the start of a lovely, warm, and honest conversation with author, George McCalman. In my mind, I could see the soft lighting and fancy chairs for the speakers. I could delight in the flowers, and hear the buzz of friendly community chatter. Last night that vision came to be and grew to include Mohammed Soriano-Bilal who so beautifully and assuredly prepared himself to engage with George and charm us all.

If you were there, perhaps you are now like me, bathing in the glow of an evening of stimulating dialogue, delicious treats, and the most perfect atmosphere designed by our very own Sergio Suarez, who obviously has so many talents and was my solid partner, along with Freya Suarez, in bringing this evening to fruition.

George is a potent and necessary voice for our times! I am certain you will agree with me that he is an extraordinary storyteller and a brilliant creative. He left us in awe with no doubt that we would spend time with his book over and over again. I have so much respect for both his work and him as a person.

My heart is so full. I am so proud of everyone who took this opportunity to be together as a community and learn and grow. I can't wait for us to do this again.

I am eternally grateful for Cindy Metcalfe and her team which included Tina Blas, Naomi Hyun, and Brooke Raymond. You offered your allyship and were integral in making the night a success. Additionally, thank you to Obsidian students, Lucy, who tackled entry and purchases at the front door, and Phoebe and Ramses who created a joyful childcare room.

Finally, big thanks again to Kathryn Grantham and Blackbird books for allowing us to benefit from the book sales.

On behalf of the Power & Privilege Team, I offer a deep bow of gratitude to our community!

Warmly,

Michlene