INTRODUCTION

Words and language matter. In an effort to build greater clarity and intentionality, our staff has defined keywords in Wide Angle’s mission statement as well as terms that shape our approach to youth development and social justice. Wide Angle operates at the intersection of media arts, creative youth development, and social change. Our organization believes that ensuring all Baltimore youth have access to free, high-quality media arts education promotes social justice. Our staff aim to create spaces where youth can tell their own stories with authenticity, confront stereotypes (often ignited by the mainstream media), preserve and present counter-narratives, address historical injustices, and dream of solutions. 

In summer 2020, our Communications team decided to specifically investigate organizational word choices that frame Wide Angle’s mission and operations, and create collective definitions. With that goal, the organization embarked on a year-long process to produce this document. The leadership team, media instructors, and youth apprentices participated in sessions led by Dena Robinson, Wide Angle’s former DEI Facilitator and a DEI consultant, in fall 2020. Staff continued the process in winter-spring 2021. An external editor and ARAO specialist reviewed the document before the first version was finalized. Using definitions from our acknowledged sources, we have included, where appropriate, how these words are used within the framework of Wide Angle Youth Media.

This evolving, living document intends to reflect what Wide Angle as an organization does, how, and why. The meaning and use of words change over time, and this document is updated every two years to reflect those shifts. If you have comments, questions, or concerns about the definitions/words used in this document, leave a comment (via the survey below) for our team during the annual review process.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

These definitions have been collaboratively created by our staff. After months of research, conversation, and group work, some components have also been adapted from and informed by a range of resources, which are credited in the document where directly integrated. For individuals and organizations seeking to deepen their understanding of Anti-Racism, Anti-Oppression, we have found these resources to be a good starting point in 2020.

• Baltimore Racial Justice Action

• Building Movement Project

• The Council for Democratizing Education

• Kimberle Crenshaw

• Dr. Maulana Karenga

• DR Works

• Ibram X. Kendi

• Kirwan Institute at Ohio State University

• Elizabeth “Betita” Martinez

• National Alliance for Media Literacy Education

• Sheila Wells, editing consultant and Development Specialist

• Dena Robinson, DEI consultant

• YWCA Social Justice Glossary

SECTION 1: OUR MISSION & VISION

Mission: Through media arts education, Wide Angle Youth Media collaborates with and amplifies the voices of Baltimore youth to engage audiences across social divides. Our programs inspire creativity and instill confidence in young people, supporting them to navigate school, career, and life.

SECTION 3: SOCIAL JUSTICE GLOSSARY

We see Media Education as one way to promote social justice. As an organization Wide Angle seeks to deepen its understanding of systemic oppressions, move towards a more equitable society and dismantle white supremacy. This is an ongoing transformative process - the work is never complete. This list is not exhaustive - these are the terms we use in our classrooms when engaging youth and within our organization when we discuss how to spark systemic change.

Let us know your thoughts!