Artist Statement

Abstract

Inspired by the 2021 conference “Toward the Antiracist Conference: Reckoning with the Past, Reimagining the Present,” designer Diamond Wade’s cover visualizes the charge to engage conversations of anti-racism in conferences and ultimately re-imagine a more inclusive present and future through a construction metaphor. At the heart of this renovation, colors that are both shocking and thoughtful personify a dynamic and diverse community. Every member is a participant in demolishing the old structure, a nod to rigid oppressive Western rhetoric, and also a participant in the rebuilding of a space that embodies themselves and is inclusive and ever-evolving to meet the needs of the entire community. The display reflects the radical, active, and cognizant work that is required to pursue the issues described in this special issue and anti-racism at large.