The Zora’s Legacy Project
Zora Legacy is a research initiative led by founder Melissa Parke. This project aims to provide critical data on Black-identifying teaching artists and the communities they serve. The interdisciplinary initiative is named after the great Zora Neale Hurston (1891–1960), whose anthropological work centered on documenting and examining Black folklore. We hope to continue Zora’s legacy by collecting stories, traditions, and artifacts from Afro-descendant artists across the diaspora.
Research Projects
Zora’s Legacy: Ethnographic Research
In the Spring of 2020, Black Teaching Artist Lab (BTAL) and Creative Generation collaborated in order to examine the prevalence of Black voices in the dialogues about teaching artists and collect ethnographic data - specifically the demographics, attitudes, and perceptions of Black identity in teaching artistry - with the goal of gaining a deeper understanding of the role of Black teaching artists in the field.
Research Projects
Coming Soon: Afrocentricity and the Development of Black Boys
Black boys and men often lack culturally affirming education, emotional tools, and supportive structures that reflect who they are—while also facing harmful stereotypes that impact their development. This research project explores the role of Black single mothers, the experiences of raising Black boys, and how Afrocentric Social Emotional Learning can serve as a protective and empowering force.