Submission Deadline Draws Near for Inclusive Language Art Competition with $10,000 Prize

Got art?

A family-friendly art competition encourages participants to explore inclusive language and ideas. The event launched during Biz Con 2024 by Afro Future Con and Afrofuturism Lounge will award $10,000 for the best art depictions of the theme.

Art can be submitted by completing this form and the deadline for entry is June 30, 2024. 

Art styles can range from 2D to 3D visual art in any medium. The contest is offered by Origins of Alphabets Afrofuturism Lounge & Afro Future Con.

Finalists will be presented at the Afrofuturism Lounge, on July 25, at the University Club, and final winners will be selected and awarded Labor Day Weekend (Aug. 31 and Sept. 1) at the Educational Cultural Complex. The grand prize winner will have the opportunity to be featured in an advertising campaign promoting inclusive language. 

Inclusive language is about replacing cliches such as blackmail, black lists, and the dark side with alternatives that don’t focus on color, which can too often lead to harmful stereotypes of people.

Afro Future Con and Afrofuturism Lounge are centered on providing a platform for visionary thought leaders and experts. 

Dr. LaWana Ricmond presents “Afrofuturism as an Inclusive Framework for Innovation as well as Social and Economic Progress.” 

She agreed to spearhead the inclusive art after being approached by Jennifer Ball of Origin of Alphabets and realizing it resonates and aligns with the values and ideals of Afrofuturism. The prize money is being provided by Jennifer Ball and Origin of Alphabets.

“The prize money is meant to encourage more people to take language and the sentiments behind the language we use more seriously,” Dr. Richmond said. “Words have power. They have the power to uplift and the power to depress. Words matter and in this world so does money. It’s not a perfect analogy but we hope this encourages more participation and more thoughtful submissions.”

Afro Future Con and Afrofuturism Lounge are offered by produced by Firyali, Inc. and benefit Grioneers, Inc. a San Diego-based, 501(c)3 nonprofit organization/launched by Dr. Richmond, who also founded Afrofuturism Dream Tank and Afrofuturism Lounge, an annual event that coincides with San Diego Comic-Con. 

“GrioNeers supports, uplifts, and creates culturally responsive spaces for people of all ages and races locally, nationally, and globally to share and leverage their limitless collective talent to accelerate ideas, science, art, and other Afrofuturistic ventures,” Dr. Richmond said. “We’re making possible an intellectual and creative convergence of thoughts, skills, and resources that contribute to a more equitable and exciting future for everyone.”

Learn more about Grio’Neers events and the inclusive art competition at https://afrofuturismlounge.com.