Change must happen. Systemic racism exists across all government systems and industries in the United States, and it is not enough to just denounce it. One must actually engage the problem and find a solution instead of tiptoeing around the status quo that has marginalized people of color, particularly those in the Black community. Malene Barnett, a practicing artist, designer, and founder of the“The interior design industry is an industry of and for elitists,” Barnett tells.
Tired of seeing Black artists and designers consistently undervalued, she pooled other like-minded individuals to form a community that seeks to, as she says, “create a safe space for Black artists, makers, and designers to celebrate Black excellence and culture in design.” Thus, in November 2018, BADG was formed. With more than 80 members and counting, Barnett explains how all the members of the nonprofit have experienced the deep-seeded racism that pervades the interior design industry.
“We are constantly overlooked,” she says. “Look at how many brands are collaborating with Black designers and artists. How many Black designers are recognized on top design lists? How many are asked to be an expert on a panel or at an industry event? How many have decision-making powers in major organizations or businesses? And the list goes on. These are facts.