Project1VOICE, invites you to participate in a commemorative art installation honoring the centennial birthday of Shirley Chisholm, a trailblazing figure in American history and a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Chisholm’s legacy as the first African American woman elected to Congress and the first Black woman to seek a major party’s presidential nomination continues to resonate deeply. Her unwavering commitment to social justice and equality, embodied in her motto “Unbought and Unbossed,” paved the way for countless others to fight for their rightful place at the table.
“If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.”
This iconic quote by Chisholm serves as the inspiration for our community art installation. We invite individuals and organizations to creatively reimagine the folding chair, transforming it into a symbol of resilience, inclusion, and the ongoing pursuit of equity.
Participation Guidelines:
- Select a Folding Chair: Choose a chair that speaks to you, whether it’s vintage, modern, or holds personal significance.
- Artistic Expression: Employ any medium or technique to transform your chair into a work of art. Consider incorporating elements that reflect Chisholm’s legacy, your personal connection to her work, or your vision for a more just society.
- Incorporate the Quote: Feature Chisholm’s powerful words, “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair,” prominently on your creation.
- Share Your Vision: Photograph your transformed chair and share it on social media using the hashtags #hbdshirleychisholm #foldingchair #attendwithus
The Significance of the Folding Chair:
The folding chair, though seemingly temporary, embodies resilience and the unwavering pursuit of belonging. It symbolizes the determination to create space for marginalized voices, reflecting the ingenuity of African American innovator Nathaniel Alexander, who was among the inventors who patented the design in 1911.
The Welcome Table and the Legacy of Black Women
Erich McMillan-McCall, founder of Project1VOICE, eloquently states, “By creating spaces for connection, we unlock transformative potential.” The folding chair, in this context, represents the creation of welcoming spaces where diverse voices can contribute and thrive.
This initiative builds upon our Phenomenal Woman series, honoring the profound impact of Black women throughout history. Shirley Chisholm’s legacy reminds us that each of us has the power to challenge the status quo, advocate for change, and build a more inclusive and equitable world.
Join us in commemorating Shirley Chisholm’s centennial birthday and participate in this powerful community art project. Let’s transform folding chairs into symbols of unity, progress, and the unwavering pursuit of justice.
