Hi again figure skating fans, I decided to make a new post to highlight black businesses/organizations in figure skating, more organized this time.
heres the very few that I could find and you should support now and beyond
Diversify Ice
Founded by Joel Savary they are a non profit organization based in Maryland (USA) providing sponsorship,mentorship,networks and opportunities for minorities in figure skating. Here’s their Instagram. Here’s their site where you can get to know more about their work and do donations. Joel alson wrote a book talking on the disparities of race in figure skating called “ Why Black and Brown Kids don’t Ice Skate” you can find it here.
Brampton Hill Skating Academy
Directed by Acacia Hill, this black owned academy based in Brampton,ON (Canada) has the vision of providing active, suburban, diverse families and individuals the opportunity to learn a new sport or build on existing skating skills in an inclusive, diverse and supportive environment.Here’s their instagram. Here’s their site.
Acacia’s Twin Asher Hill is a choreographer for the academy and has spoken about his trajectory and the lack of support Skate Canada gave him while facing racism.You can read his interviews about it here and here.
Brownbody
Founded by Deneane Richburg this is an artistic group that combines figure skating,dance and theater on their productions exploring race,culture,history and community. Based in Minnesota they also offer “Learn to Skate” classes. Here’s their instagram.Here’s their site for more information.
PBS has a video showcasing their work.
Figure Skating in Harlem and Figure Skating in Detroit
These are two sisters non profits. One based in Harlem and other in Detroit (USA). They envision to help girls to develop academic foundation, proficient skating skills, be more confident/better speakers and able to make healthy food and fitness choices. This is FSH’s instagram and their site. FSD’s instagram and their site. In those links you can find more infomation about the organizations and how to donate.
Promote, support, help the list get longer ! Just remember that a single black square on social media isnt enough !
