“Black Dreams Matter,” “All Black Lives Matter,” and “Love the Skin You’re In” were just a few of the messages emblazoned with colorful chalk on the West Haven Green July 16th when a protest for racial equity decided to feature their community’s secret weapon  – ARTISTS! 

Conscious Capitalism, Connecticut Chapter, sponsored a community chalk drawing party as prelude to a semi-permanent public mural with the Black Lives Matter theme. As noted in The New Haven Register, the main thrust of such an endeavor is “to inspire.”  In alignment with our tenets, we view this as developing conscious culture and conscious leadership in an entire community. The full news article about this project and our sponsorship can be read here. 

Conscious Capitalism, Connecticut Chapter, has a relationship with West Haven, Connecticut via its current President, Gavin Watson, formerly of Watson, Inc., a company near Yale West Campus that employs over 300 people. You can read Gavin’s bio HERE. It was inside his family business that Gavin gained an appreciation for the importance of community engagement. So today, under his leadership, the Connecticut Chapter of Conscious Capitalism respects and supports creativity as a constructive force – probably the most important force – in the battle for changing hearts and minds. 

This is why, when West Haven organizers added a Community Chalk Drawing Party to their proceedings in an afternoon already bursting with creative talent, we decided to be on the scene and supply the chalk.  As you can see, it was put to great use! 

Mural locations for a more permanent message along similar themes are now being discussed with city officials. According to West Haven youth and community organizer Brandon Patterson,  “The goal is to unify West Haven around a strong public statement regarding our values as an inclusive community. This is anticipated to have long-term positive effects as a driver for social cohesion, entrepreneurial diversity and economic growth.” 

Meanwhile, Executive Director Glen McDermott has been meeting with New Haven officials about their designs for Black Lives Matter – themed public art. So far, artists have been called to submit plans. According to Gage Frank, Community Development Director and Adriane Jefferson, Director of Cultural Affairs, a community mural painting project is scheduled for August. Watch on our social media for announcements as we learn more!

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