Black M.A.G.I.C. Affinity Group

Black Moving Affinity Group In Community

Purpose (why): Dance/movement therapy and the American Dance Therapy Association
(ADTA) is constantly evolving due to the growing number of members of color specifically
members of African, African American, Afro- Caribbean, Afro-Latin descent and others in the
African Diaspora. However, as the landscape changes and it becomes more diverse, the
values and goals of the ADTA are slow to reflect that of its Black membership. Black MAGIC will
help to bridge this gap, increase the visibility of Black DMTs, students and healers, and their
values within the ADTA and dance/movement therapy profession.

Vision (what): Black MAGIC hopes to strengthen the work and lives of Black DMTs and
students by building a community that offers refuge, guidance, fellowship, and hope.

Mission (how):
Black MAGIC will:

  • Establish online and in-person support for members of the affinity group through scholarship and mentorship
  • Provide educational resources, clinical support, and research opportunities for members
  • Foster a supportive environment for the transmission of historical perspectives and the sharing of new perspectives from Black DMTs across generations
  • Provide opportunities for professional networking in and outside of the DMT community
  • Gather and disseminate the historical knowledge that establishes the legacy of Black DMT and healers in the context of the ADTA
  • Continue to grow and transform to meet the needs of its ever-evolving membership

Leaders (who): Black MAGIC will function under a collective leadership model. However, Ari Salaam and Aaleyah James will serve as the main contact persons.

If you identify as Black, African, African American, Afro- Caribbean, Afro-Latin descent and want
to become connected please contact [email protected].