Ways to support artist Lilada Gee

Posted by Samantha Haas on Friday, February 26th, 2021 at 10:07am.

In our November nonprofit spotlight, we highlighted the beautiful and thought-provoking work of Madison artist Lilada Gee, who created several murals downtown and launched the Defending Black Girlhood podcast in 2020. You can view photos and articles about her State Street artwork in the pdf of this book, "Let's Talk About It," published by American Family Insurance. 

We are thrilled to share that Lilada joined State Rep. Shelia Stubbs and Shyra Adams in receiving the 2021 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Award, presented to those who have demonstrated incredible leadership and volunteerism in the Madison area and reflect the values, beliefs, and actions of Martin Luther King, Jr. Lilada said in her January 18th acceptance speech (around the 51:14 mark), “I receive this prestigious award on behalf of my inner Black girl and all undefended Black girls everywhere. May those in your families, schools, and communities be on the defense for your right to be safe.” 

Last fall, a parent group at Van Hise Elementary School on Madison’s west side also asked Lilada to paint the school’s new Little Free Library in the bold and joyful colors of Defending Black Girlhood. The group is always looking for more donated books to fill the anti-racism library, which represents solidarity and support for our communities of color. Learn more at aisforantiracism.com

Madison Public Library has also partnered with Lilada Gee and Defending Black Girlhood to recommend books, videos, podcasts, online communities, and other racial equity resources for parents, educators and would-be allies. Learn more at madisonpubliclibrary.org/racial-equity/resources/tags/getting-started/defending-black-girlhood.

Ways to support Lilada Gee’s work

  • Sign up for her new monthly newsletter featuring her latest artwork on display and for purchase, upcoming events, and more at lilada.org/subscribe

  • Tune into the Defending Black Girlhood podcast, now in its second season, to join Lilada for courageous conversations about topics that most impact Black girls at pod.link/defendingblackgirlhoodpodcast.

  • Receive exclusive updates by becoming a monthly patron at patreon.com/Lilada

  • Order all-weather yard signs at Little Luxuries on State Street and other artwork at society6.com/Lilada.   

  • Purchase JUSTIF-I-ED PA hazy IPA from Working Draft Beer Company at workingdraftbeer.com, and not just because of its taste! Lilada designed the beer can art, and $1 from each 4-pack will go to Lilada’s Healing Art and Justified Anger, a movement created by Lilada’s brother Rev. Dr. Alex Gee with a focus on strengthening the African American community. 

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