the black code project

what happens when you investigate the experiences of black millennials based on their zip codes? you get the black code project, a social experiment by chuckwunonso dureke that lifts up the voices of baltimore and dc residents based on their place and race.  the video and website is chuckwunonso’s exploration of social mobility across generations.

i’m honored to have participated in chronicling a piece of the black experience. the interview felt like an archival dig into my family’s history that exposed trauma, insecurities, resilience and strength. through tears, i shared my story and the battles i fought to achieve what some deem success.  what struck me most is the undertone of socioeconomic fragility — several participants were just  one decision or generation away from poverty. so many black folks’ lived experiences includes the class divide; even compared to our own families.

join chuckwunonso and other dc metro artists for a dialogue at nomad yard collectiv on january 30th from 5-8 pm.