In observance of March 21, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, Akonadi Foundation presents the 2023 Racial Justice Poster, “We Infinite,” by Francis Mead.
Akonadi Foundation distributed our first Racial Justice poster in 2008 to commemorate March 21, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. This day honors the Sharpeville massacre on March 21, 1960, when the South African anti-apartheid movement rose up in resistance against `pass’ laws. As part of the government’s efforts to segregate and control Black South Africans, these laws required Black South Africans to carry passbooks, or identity cards, at all times. On this day in the Sharpeville township, as movement leaders, elders, and children gathered in peaceful protest, police opened fire and killed 69 people, including 10 children.
This year’s poster is a compelling tribute to the history and future we are all fighting for, from the reverence of ancient knowledge and the sacredness of land, to the bright spirit of children and Black and Indigenous cowboys and cowgirls. As we continue fighting for liberation and racial justice, we hope it serves as a reminder to take space for experiencing joy, honoring our history, and celebrating the beautiful possibilities of our collective futures.
Help us spread the word about the poster project through your social media channels. Please share a picture of yourself with the poster, using the hashtag #RJPP23 and tag us on Twitter at @akonadi_oakland and Facebook and Instagram at @AkonadiFoundation.
“What I’ve noticed all these years that I’ve dedicated to liberation is that we hold so much space and inquiry for our suffering and lack. And that’s real, because there is so much injustice that needs to be exposed. However, the intention behind my work is not just to highlight our oppression, but to shine light on our gifts and possibilities. I want us to see ourselves from a space of soulful abundance, and to move, and resist and succeed from that space as infinite powerful beings.”
– Francis Mead
Artist Statement
When reflecting on the message I wanted to offer with the 2023 Akonadi Racial Justice Poster design I drew from my experience as a diasporic Black woman. I’ve always been inspired by the life radiating from my people. All the spirit and creativity despite living within a system that seeks to destroy us.
I thought of Black and Brown children in all their glory and joy. The richness of their soul, and the truth they embody. I wanted to center them in the image surrounded by California poppies and a sunflower, native plant medicine. Remembering our connection to the land.
I thought of the Black elders around me growing up, who kept gardens, grew collard greens and saved seeds. That ancient knowing of how to take care of the land and nourish the people. How important it is to connect with our elders, remember traditional ways, and create intergenerational spaces to thrive.
I thought about Black cowboys and cowgirls, and how my father always told me that Black and Indigenous people are the original horse people. And how those traditions carry on here in Oakland and the Bay Area. I used Black horsewoman and Oakland native Brianna Noble with one of her horses as a portrait in the image.
What I’ve noticed all these years that I’ve dedicated to liberation is that we hold so much space and inquiry for our suffering and lack. And that’s real, because there is so much injustice that needs to be exposed. However, the intention behind my work is not just to highlight our oppression, but to shine light on our gifts and possibilities. I want us to see ourselves from a space of soulful abundance, and to move, and resist and succeed from that space as infinite powerful beings.
Biography
Francis Mead is a mama, artist and dreamer rooted in East Oakland, CA. Ever since she can remember she has created art to connect with herself, her ancestors, and the spirits that guide her. Her watercolor, pen and ink and digital illustrations honor Black and Brown Indigenous magic, Divine Femininity, the earth, and other dreamers and warriors throughout time and space. The intention behind her work always is to uplift and empower the people, creating art that are tools for healing and liberation. Follow her on Instagram at @girasoulll or learn more about her work at illustratedtruths.com.