instituto 2023 black changemakers of arizona list
Written by Trinity Miracle
in celebration of Juneteenth, Instituto has launched its annual “Black changemakers of arizona list”, recognizing black leaders making history in 2023.
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The Black Changemakers of Arizona List was launched to honor and celebrate the Black organizers throughout the state who have made it their mission to serve their community. These changemakers have been nominated by the Executive Directors and leadership staff of their organizations for demonstrating an immense dedication to Arizona communities through the lens of social justice.
Why nominations?
Nominations capitalize on our collective people power and hold space for those who may not be considered leaders by corporate definition. These are the canvassers, managers, field organizers, storytellers, and so many more, that are necessary for building political power and healing communities.
This list is a living testament and ever-expanding archive to the accomplishments Black folks make, and have always made.
Check out the three honorees making waves in the great Copper State:
Aliyah Magee
Digital Marketing Specialist, Atabey Outdoors
Aliyah (she/her/hers) is born and raised in Dallas, Texas but has been enjoying living in Phoenix, Arizona since 2018. She graduated from Arizona State University’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism in 2021 with a degree in Journalism & Mass Communication and a certification in Special Event Management.
Aliyah is currently (2023) the Digital Marketing Specialist for Atabey Outdoors, a non-profit on a mission to build access for BIPOC kids and adults to recreate outdoor adin safe spaces.
When Aliyah isn’t creating social content for Atabey, she works part-time at a local flower shop or is taking her pup, Luna, on a long walk.
Cambria Dickerson
Communications Specialist, Black Lives Matter Phoenix Metro
The description below is a testimony provided by Black Lives Matter Phoenix Metro, detailing why they chose to nominate Cambria and her extraordinary work.
Cambria (she/her/hers) moved to Arizona for college to study natural medicine and was hired by us at Black Lives Matter Phoenix Metro over a year ago. She didn't come from an organizer background but has flourished as an activist and advocate since joining.
She does an amazing job with the advocacy team highlighting victims of police brutality, and always goes above and beyond to ensure that victims' voices are heard. Cambria has developed her analysis as an abolitionist and developed a series titled “F* the Police Fridays” to highlight Phoenix police brutality.
She also is an herbalist and has founded a business called Lune Magic and Medicine that incorporates astrology with intuitive practices, to create medicinal herbals for spiritual and physical wellness!
Kai Amani
Lead Adventure Guide, Atabey Outdoors
Kai Amani (they/them) is the Lead Adventure Guide for Atabey Outdoors. For over a decade, they have worked in service to the youth, intentionally providing safe emotional, spiritual and natural spaces for them to thrive in.
Kai was born and raised in South Carolina, and have since lived in many different states from coast to coast. Each state opened up the door for them to grow closer to their adventurous, nature-loving spirit, and supported self.
They love where their journey has led them, and is grateful for opportunities to channel their knowledge as an Adventure Guide.
“Celebrate Black leaders as a daily act.
Celebrate Black leaders selflessly.
Celebrate Black leaders without permission.
Do it publicly.
And do it again.”
Looking for more ways to support Black organizers and organizations in Arizona?
Check out our blog “Black-led Organizations in Arizona to Support”.
Want to nominate an organizer at your organization for the Black Changemakers of Arizona List?
The leadership staff of Instituto partners will receive an email regarding how and when to nominate an organizer (working at said organization), leading up to Juneteenth. This list is intended to be announced annually to commemorate the Black freedom holiday.
Have questions? Email us at Comms@Instituto.io
DISCLAIMER: This publication is for informational and educational purposes only and is not an endorsement of any political issues, parties, candidates, or elected officials.
