An exhibition celebrating black women in academia has taken the stage at Liverpool John Moores University.
‘Black In The Ivory’ seeks to challenge traditional views of black women in academia and give black women a safe space to freely express their perspectives through art.
The poems discuss issues that black women have historically faced inside of academia, but also outside, such as in workplaces.
The exhibition, curated by Liverpool John Moores University lecturer, Dominque Walker, is designed to be interactive.
Visitors are invited to write their opinions and comments on post-it notes and notebooks.
Dominique urged everyone in her pre-opening talk to pick up literature that was spread throughout the exhibition.
When asked what her driving force was, she said, “We’re one of the most underrepresented groups and in terms of our development – there hardly is any.
“What I wanted to do was amplify black women’s voices in academia and the contribution we’ve made.”
When asked how much has changed for black women in academia since she started her first degree in 2005, she told MerseyNewsLive: “It’s changed a little bit, I’ve got a job, so that’s some progress.
“I never thought I’d be able to work here when I did my first degree – I just didn’t think it was attainable.”
But, it’s clear from the exhibition she has made a significant impact since becoming a lecturer at the University.
E-mails from former students said: “Dom, you were instrumental at the beginning of my journey getting me in the right mindset and preparing me for the challenges which I was yet to experience.”
Dominique joined friends, family and guests for food and a glass of wine at the end of the opening evening.
