On May 10, 2019, DMAE students attended a conference at the United Nations Headquarters to discuss the changes in art and its role in promoting justice. The trip was hosted by counselors at the ZONE.

The theme for this year’s conference was “Remember Slavery: The Power of the Arts for Justice.” Conference host Kimberly Mann made students aware of emotions put into artwork at this time, and discussed how the media’s misrepresentation of people of African descent is a problem.

“What really stood out to me was how media and television statistics about black and white families are misinterpreted to this day,” junior Destiny Gillespie stated.

Many countries sent ambassadors to discuss this topic with students, including Mauro Vieira, the Brazilian ambassador who talked about slavery in Brazil specifically.

“Overall, this was a great experience to expose our students to the realities of history,”  explained Mariam Gerges, a ZONE counselor who helped organize the trip.

DMAE students were able to participate in the discussion due to the open and flexible structure of the seminar.

“I spoke at the UN and I felt proud representing the school,” said senior Courtnie Beckford. “I was glad I could be a part of a small change for equality.”