The Because of Them We Can campaign was inspired by my own two sons (last February 2013) and the desire to create imagery for them and children like them that would refute stereotypes and build their self-esteem by connecting them to heroes past and present who have and continue to pave the way.
After photographing and engaging with over 650 children in less than a year (in order to capture 365 images), I am not only inspired by my boys, but I am also inspired by the hope and potential that all children possess. As we traveled the country engaging parents and children from all walks of life, we quickly realized that each child needs this message... regardless of their hue. I realized that there is a battle going on in each neighborhood, school and home and it is for the self-esteem of our young people. The same way that Because of Them We Can has helped expand the conversation in the African American community is the same way we want to expand the conversation in others. I thought Women's History Month would be the perfect time to announce and launch our expansion.
Children need to be introduced to all examples of excellence, whether that is through an image highlighting Charles Drew, Judge Sonia Sotomayor, Albert Eistein, Connie Chung, Zora Neale Hurston, Susan B. Anthony, or Malala. There are numerous issues that divide us, however, wouldn't it be great if worked together to inundate children all over with these messages of excellence, accomplishment and responsibility?
It's kind of hard to restrict the celebration of Women's History into just one month as there are far too many women to highlight beyond the month of March. This is an ongoing effort, however, we wanted to highlight a few women who have helped break barriers and glass ceilings for us all. Click here to view more from our 365 quest last year.
