Reflecting on the power and persistence of Black art as it faces backlash in the US

Black Art: A Movement, Not a Moment

In a recent column from Lancaster County’s LNP, Demetrius Archer, Communications Manager at YWCA Lancaster, explores how current backlash from government entities could hurt Black creatives.

Black art is more than creativity—it is a declaration of existence, a force for justice, and a vital part of cultural history. From the Harlem Renaissance to today’s digital activism, Black artists have continually challenged oppression, preserved history, and shaped social movements.

Yet, as institutions withdraw commitments to equity, Black creatives face new barriers. YWCA Lancaster’s Black Artist Waystation and the expansion into Black Art Across Lancaster are working to ensure Black voices remain amplified. Read the full column here.