When I think about movements for justice, we often think about organizers, advocates, the protesters, the policymakers, and the activists.
But what about the storytellers?
In this conversation, I sat down with Avril Speaks of Christians for Social Action to talk about the role artists and storytellers play in shaping culture. As Avril put it, “Movements do not become durable through urgency alone. They need memory. They need songs, stories, rituals, images.” That idea will stay with me.
We also share the story behind God’s Secret Chair, that is traveling around the US now.
This is an immersive work we created together. It invites you to “sit, and hear God’s Secrets.” What are the secrets? The people left out of church history.
You encounter the voices of overlooked heroes whose stories shaped the church and still shapes our world. What began as a conversation about portraits evolved into something much more intimate. A place where history is felt in the bones.
One of my favorite moments in our conversation is the realization that storytellers don’t just report on change. The data and spreadsheets aint enough. We, artists, help people imagine it. We connect us to our “why.”
Storytellers make the data and the movements human.
Because until it’s human - nobody cares.
Which led us to talking about The Power. A new publication that I am starting meant to inspire the uninspired and under-informed. As we prepare to launch the magazine, I’m more convinced than ever that stories are not a luxury. They are civic infrastructure. They help us remember who we are, understand the world we’re building together, and imagine what could come next.
By the way, we are fundraising to launch The Power publication. Please consider offering a tax deductible donation here.
I hope this conversation leaves you inspired to think about your own role in the ecosystem of change. Whether you’re an organizer, an artist, a teacher, or simply someone who cares deeply about your community, there is a story only you can help tell.
