From the Nominator

In the summer of 2020, amid the Black Lives Matter protests, anonymous Instagram accounts were created to share racist incidents that had occurred at Atlanta's private schools. One account shared many dark, hurtful racist events over the years at Woodward Academy. As the school grappled with these horrific stories, we decided to create a special publication that would be a voice for those hurt by racism. “Black at Woodward” is entirely created by our Black community, with contributors (alumni, students, faculty, and parents) sharing their experiences of being made to feel lesser. It includes harsh criticism of our past failures as well as chances to learn more about the Black perspective, including a dialogue between an Upper School student and her father. Another piece follows a student's experience of marching in a protest. The contributors also delve into a vision of what the academy can and should become as leaders reflect and begin the work of transformation, attempting to truly make this the place of equality it strives to be. The publication includes special photography, poetry, and artwork from Black students that delves into Black identity. While this publication does not solve the problems of racism, we have seen already that it has forced the issue out into the open, so that we as a community must discuss it. And for our Black community members, it shows that they truly have been heard. We believe that is the first step before true healing and reconciliation can begin.

From the Judges

We liked that Woodward really pushed themselves and their community out of their comfort zone. It's a bit early to see much in the way of results, but they deserve acknowledgement for their courage and vision in helping their institution evolve and grow. Black at Woodward also receives credit for tackling a very sensitive and tough issue. We admire their bravery for committing to such a campaign, and salute the quality of its execution. No other school we know of has done a publication like this that specifically addresses racist incidents and entirely empowers Black voices, openly addressing institutional failures.