About Us

  • We are interviewers, collectors, researchers, photographers, and archivists who champion Black photographers.

    We are dedicated to centering the work and voices of Black photographers, photojournalists and visual creatives from across the world. We believe they have valuable contributions to make to photography at all levels.

    These include the respectful, authentic and positive representation of Black people, narratives and experiences; the support of Black peers at every stage of their careers, and addressing systemic issues that exist within the art form.

  • We acknowledge our weapon of choice has historically been used against us.

    We advocate for the equity and equality for Black photographers worldwide. Period.

    We champion Black photographers and the work they create. We recognise their past contributions to photography and advocate for their full inclusion and acceptance within the present and the future.

  • We want to end the misrepresentation of Black people and culture that have been part of the canon of photography since its inception.

    We also want Black photographers to enjoy the equity, respect, and support that their counterparts in music have received for decades.

  • We use this online platform, monthly newsletter, and social media channels to champion Black photographers across all diasporas.

    Our vision is a world in which Black photographers can operate with the same freedom, support, and acceptance as their white counterparts. Our mission is to normalise the nuances and perspectives of Black photographers.

    We advocate for the respectful, empathetic and ethical representation of Black people and culture. Images of Black suffering, poverty and pain are NSFBC - Not Safe For Black People & Culture. Those that exist should only be used in educational settings to inform. Photography is a democratic medium that millions across the world enjoy. Black photographers should be free to pursue their interest without gate keeping from white counterparts.

 

Our Manifesto

There were no black images of dignity, no images of beautiful black people. There was this big hole. I tried to fill it.
— Roy DeCarava

Our new and updated manifesto will be published soon.

Join theBLKGZE
on Slack

Join theBLKGZE Slack channel to contribute to the project, ask questions, participate in discussions and share your thoughts with our growing community.

 

FAQs

  • Am I Black?

    Good question. If you, a parent or grandparent are black then feel free to take part in any of our programmes.

  • What if I self-identify as Black?

    Another good question. Currently our programmes are open to individuals who are Black by heritage rather than by self-identification.

  • Can I make a suggestion?

    Yes, you can! We welcome feedback and suggestions so please feel free to get in touch.

  • Can I submit to TheBLKGZE?

    Description goes here
  • New List Item

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“I saw that the camera could be a weapon against poverty, against racism, against all sorts of social wrongs.”

— Gordon Parks