“Labor Day holds a significant place in the history and culture of African Americans, serving as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for labor rights and social justice. Originally established to honor the contributions of workers across the nation, this holiday also reflects the unique challenges faced by African Americans in the workforce. Historically, African Americans have encountered systemic barriers, including discrimination and unequal pay, which have shaped their experiences in the labor market. As a result, Labor Day not only celebrates the achievements of workers but also highlights the need for continued advocacy for equity and inclusion in employment. The observance of this day encourages reflection on the progress made and the work that remains to ensure that all individuals, regardless of race, can enjoy fair labor practices and opportunities for advancement.”
As an African - American since I was a high school student in 1991, I have experienced racism and discrimination.
CONSULTANT PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCES
CONSULTANT. Kitchen Table Talks. African American Women's Resource Center, Washington, D.C. November 6, 2017 - November 30, 2017. Worked with the team to ensure the timely dissemination of press releases, fostering a cooperative environment.
CONSULTANT. Mr. Ralph Nader. Breaking Through Power, Washington, D.C. 2016.
Engaged with local communities to raise awareness about Breaking Through Power, effectively increasing event attendance and participation.
CONSULTANT. Malcolm X Drummers and Dancers, Washington, D.C. 2001 - 2020.
Offered photography services, capturing high-quality images for promotional use.
Managed information dissemination for performances, enhancing audience reach.
Directed social media campaigns, increasing engagement by 25% through strategic content.
Collaborated with a team to develop innovative marketing strategies.
Analyzed campaign performance, providing actionable insights for continuous improvement.
CONSULTANT. BZB International, Washington, DC. Provided services for the BZB Annual Holiday Gift and Art Show held in 2009, 2013, 2014, from 2016- 2019; and 2022. Also provided services for Anacostia Art Gallery and Boutique in 2010 and 2011.
Consulted for Anacostia Art Gallery and BZB International, improving operational efficiency by 15% through strategic process optimization and team collaboration.
CONSULTANT. Kerry S. Pearson, LLC. Washington, DC. 2010-2011.
Researched construction materials, providing insights that improved project efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Analyzed market trends to recommend materials, enhancing project quality and reducing expenses.
Collaborated with a team to gather data, ensuring accurate and timely research results for decision-making.
CONSULTANT. DC COALITION FOR HOUSING JUSTICE, Washington, DC. 2010 – 2011. Assisted in fundraising activities, enhancing donor engagement and improving funding outcomes.
CONSULTANT. BLACK VOICES FOR PEACE, Washington, DC. 2001. Managed administrative tasks, ensuring smooth operations and timely project completion.
CONSULTANT. Varies. Washington, DC. 1992 - present. Over 17 years of professional experience in designing and implementing media campaigns for individuals, small businesses, and nonprofit organizations.
CONSULTANT PROJECTS (PARTIAL LISTING)
Annual BZB Gift and Art Show, National Daddy Daughter Reunion Tour, Building Families in the 21st Century, The Gift, Daughters Speak Out, Sip, Paint and Reflect, PaintSpiration: Reflect and Paint!, Spring Cleaning: Mind, Body and Spirit, The Fatherless Daughters Speak Out, Esther Productions, Inc Butterfly Series, Inside Job: The Art of Personal Essay Writing (Workshop for Teens), Inside Job: The Art of Personal Essay Writing (Workshop Sequel for Teens), Reconciliation Week, Joy Jones' Double Dutch, Writing Institute for Teens, Teens Authors Talk, Understanding and Overcoming Fatherless Daughter Syndrome, The Power of Poetry in You, Women Are Poetry in Motion Every Day in Every Way, Kaleidoscope: A Writing Club, Winners Circle, Soaring Sisters Circle, Me, Myself and Our Story: Creative Writing Institute for Young Ladies, Me, Myself and Our Story: The Art of the Personal Essay, A Writing Workshop for Girls,Me, Myself and Our Story: The Art of Memoir, Part 1, Discovering Me...Without You: An Annual Personal Essay Contest,African Americans and Children's Literature: A Symposium and Exhibition, and AACL Tour.
SOLD ART:
In 2022, Esther Productions, Inc purchased Summer Blossoms (an abstract painting) to use for the book cover of Kaleidoscope.
On August 13, 2022, Ms. Afrika Abney donated Flock of Feathers #1 (abstract painting) to Esther Productions, Inc.
On June 23, 2023, Esther Productions, Inc purchased one of Ms. Afrika Abney's abstract paintings that she created on March 4, 2023.
On December 3, 2023, Esther Productions, Inc purchased two abstract paintings created by Ms. Afrika Abney.
ART DONATIONS:
Ms. Afrika Abney donated some of her collages to Esther Productions, Inc. in August 2022.
EDUCATION
Bell Multicultural High School - 1993
Corcoran School of the Arts - 1997