Black Artist Waystation
Our Values
We acknowledge that Artivists (Artist + Activist) use their artistic talents to fight the struggle against injustice and oppression.
We recognize that artivists play a central role in building a vibrant Lancaster County.
We believe that diverse perspectives create a unique culture and have an emphasis on supporting Black artists since their work is not equally represented in mainstream culture and media in Lancaster County.
We are committed to supporting work that has a social impact on the footprint of Lancaster County.
We are committed to uplifting work that can alter how we think about ourselves, our society, or our culture by challenging or questioning societal norms and prevailing attitudes about race, class, gender, sexuality, identity, age, and ability.
At YWCA Lancaster’s Center for Racial and Gender Equity (CRGE), we are dedicated to creating a more just and equitable community. Through our programs, we provide platforms for engagement, education, and advocacy, empowering individuals to challenge systemic racism and gender-based injustice. Our community engagement initiatives focus on amplifying marginalized voices and driving meaningful change. Learn more about our key programs below.
Black Artist Waystation
The Black Artist Waystation is a vibrant platform designed to uplift and support Black artists in Lancaster. Through this initiative, we provide Black creatives with the resources, visibility, and space needed to develop their craft and share their stories. The program includes artist residencies, public exhibitions, and community workshops, offering artists the opportunity to explore themes of identity, race, and justice. By elevating Black voices and promoting diversity in the arts, the Black Artist Waystation challenges traditional narratives and helps foster cultural transformation in our community.
Our Mission
The mission of the Black Artist Waystation is to provide Black artists with the resources, opportunities, and visibility needed to succeed in their craft. By fostering a nurturing environment for creativity, the Waystation empowers artists to develop their work without constraints, while also challenging societal norms around race and identity. The program not only seeks to elevate individual artists but also aims to reshape the cultural landscape of Lancaster by ensuring that Black perspectives are celebrated and integrated into the broader community.
Empowering Black Artists, Transforming Our Community
By supporting Black artists, the Black Artist Waystation is transforming Lancaster’s cultural landscape and contributing to the broader fight for racial equity. The Waystation is not just a platform for artistic expression—it is a movement that asserts the importance of Black narratives in shaping our collective future.
Through this initiative, YWCA Lancaster is building a community where Black artists feel empowered to create, thrive, and lead the way in reimagining what an equitable society looks like. By amplifying the voices of Black creatives, the Black Artist Waystation plays a vital role in YWCA Lancaster’s mission to eliminate racism and promote peace, justice, and dignity for all.