www.urbanbushwomen.org

Founded in 1984 and based in Brooklyn, NY, Urban Bush Women (UBW) seeks to bring untold and under-told stories of disenfranchised people to light through dance as told from the perspective of women and members of the African Diaspora community. UBW’s work seeks to create a more equitable balance of power in and beyond the dance world and strengthen and expand its community via ongoing professional education, development of new audiences, nurturing young talent and presenting bold, life-affirming dance works in a variety of settings.

Since its first official Community Engagement Project took place in New Orleans in 1992, UBW has developed a unique language and way of thinking that facilitates a process of achieving community identified changes. UBW’s concepts are identified as “Entering Community” (becoming aware of the values, history and leadership of a community), “Building Community” (putting values into action), and “Exiting Community” (ensuring that all who participate are recognized in the process and identify their learned results). UBW’s Community Engagement work establishes an environment of exchange where mutual learning can occur.

From July 31 to August 9, 2009, UBW held its annual Summer Leadership Institute in New Orleans. The ten day intensive seminar gathered artists, activists, and community organizers to participate in Urban Bush Women dance techniques; community dancing tradition; teach-ins; and trainings for undoing racism. Each year, the Institute offers tools to participants along all skill levels to develop their artistic talents to think through challenges in creative ways that can contribute to their communities.