In a heartwarming collaboration between Spokane Community College. Adams Elementary School and the Carl Maxey Center, students recently undertook a project that blended art with diversity, equity and inclusion.
Led and inspired by Christina Momono, the initiative in late May paid homage to eight historical icons whose lives exemplified values of justice, education, freedom, civil rights and human rights. The DEI Art Inclusive Project showcased artistic talents of young minds while fostering a deeper understanding of the contributions made by these transformative individuals.
The project’s central theme, “Transcending Time and Love,” provided a framework for students to explore and interpret the legacies of their chosen icons.
Among the luminaries honored through the murals were some of history’s most influential figures.
The roster included Sandy Williams, a cherished community leader, activist and The Black Lens founder, whose impact resonates deeply within the local area. Alongside Williams, the murals depicted the likenesses and stories of Martin Luther King Jr., Yoko Ono, Malala Yousafzai, Albert Einstein, Cesar Chavez, Margo Hill and Helen Keller.
Reflecting on the project, the staff at Carl Maxey Center expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with the students.
Williams, in particular, held a special significance as a role model and beacon of hope within the community. Her tireless dedication to social justice and empowerment has inspired countless individuals, making her inclusion in the mural project a poignant testament to her enduring legacy.
The process of creating Williams’ mural was more than a mere artistic endeavor; it was a celebration of her life and legacy. It taught us that with time and love, anything – be it a blank canvas or a fledgling idea – can evolve into something profound and meaningful. The mural project served as a poignant reminder to our children and community members alike that each stroke of paint represented not just artistic expression, but a tribute to a beloved leader whose impact continues to resonate.
The collaborative effort between SCC, Adams Elementary and the Carl Maxey Center represents a shining example of how communities can come together to celebrate diversity and inspire meaningful dialogue through art. By commemorating the lives and contributions of these eight icons, the DEI Art Inclusive Project has not only enriched the educational experience of students but also strengthened the bonds of solidarity within the broader community.