“DANCE IQUAIL! exists at the intersections of Blackness, dance, and social change. Our ambition is to rid our Black Philadelphian communities of the systematic social oppressions. As such, we are honored to be in a space with BAFF, an organization that lives the social change we seek in the world. There are a few examples I can give that best illustrate how their model of social change is the foundation of the operations. First, I was both deeply honored and surprised that as the financial woes of the COVID pandemic hit, not only did BAFF graciously offer additional funds to help our general operations, but they did so without requesting additional work from us as a grantee. Secondly, they offered ongoing workshops and personalized training furthering their investment into the grantees knowledge. These sessions were led by highly experienced experts who are selfless and generous with sharing the knowledge and resources for our betterment. Again, without making additional demands of us grantees. My favorite so far is the Alice Stryker’s idea of a “love note” to our donors once a month. Finally, and personally for me as a Black man artist and director, it had not been lost on me that Black women lead this organization and participate in this space. And that it was Black women artists, executives and directors who continue to be the first responders, continuously coming to my aid in ways that many other foundations and organizations aren’t able. For that I am grateful beyond my words.”