The Little Mermaid Challenge: Richmond, Virginia

Hello, my name is Lance and I'm a community leader/youth program director located in Richmond, Virginia. Films like The Black Panther and A Wrinkle in Time definitely showed the impact that representation can have, not just on the quality of a film but on kids across the world. Help Richmond youth swim into theaters on May 26. Meet us under the sea!

Press Links:

RVA Mag

Local Youth Activist Raising Funds To Help Girls See Captain Marvel https://t.co/30iC6nVU0P

Richmond Times Dispatch

Crowdfunding campaign funds Richmond kids' trips to see 'Black Panther' https://t.co/HDKNNBx0Xs

WRIC ABC 8News

‘Black Panther Challenge’ makes its way to Richmond https://www.wric.com/news/black-panther-challenge-makes-its-way-to-richmond/

Representation Matters:

Disney’s "The Little Mermaid" is another great opportunity for young students to witness a Black major cinematic character come to life. This representation is fundamental for youth, especially those often underserved, underprivileged, and marginalized nationally and globally.

The determination of certain people in power to manipulate and erase Black history, is motivation for me to continue dialogue with younger generations about the importance of representation.

The Little Mermaid is much more than entertainment. It’s an opportunity for a child to embrace their individuality and power.

My ultimate goal is to give one thousand Black girls/students a chance to experience The Little Mermaid in theaters. It’s extremely important for Black youth to see characters that look like them portrayed in powerful ways on the big screen.

We must maximize every opportunity to counter the negative images of Black people on television with something positive for Black girls & boys.

Ticket cost:

$10.50-$12.50 per adult

$9.50 per child under 12-years-old

All proceeds will go towards private screening tickets for children and chaperones, refreshments, and The Little Mermaid merchandise. On May 26th, Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” will be released nationwide. The film stars Halle Bailey as Ariel, alongside a cast of many other amazing actresses/actors.

Through donations from supporters like you, we’ll be distributing tickets to schools and community organizations throughout Richmond. Imagine the joy of a whole classroom of kids finding out they get to watch this movie for free.

After the movie experience is funded the remaining balance from our donations will go to organizations centered around giving Black girls an opportunity to lead by hearing their voices, putting them in the forefront of change efforts, and preparing them for positions in decision-making spaces.

We’re also encouraging you to bring #TheLittleMermaidChallenge to a theater in your community.

Thank you for joining me again in supporting our youth, and a special thank you to Taylor Richardson for launching the challenge. Black girl magic matters.