“I want you to understand that your first duty is to humanity. I want others to look at us and see that we care not just about ourselves, but about others.”
I recently thought of that statement made by Madam CJ Walker when I learned of the latest developments relative to Indianapolis’ historic Madam Walker Theatre Center.
As the Recorder exclusively reports this week, the Walker Theatre is in the midst of some major changes, most notably, the strategic partnership between the Walker, IUPUI and Lilly Endowment. This partnership will enhance the Walker as we know it and revolutionize it into the Walker of tomorrow – complete with a full renovation, a revamped board of directors and enhanced programming that truly celebrates and focuses on the legacy of Madam Walker.
There is a lot to do and a lot at stake, but I am confident that this partnership is the best option to ensure the most success and viability for years to come.
I know the Indianapolis community, especially Indianapolis’ Black community. And I am sure once people learn of this latest development; some will be pleased with the progress, while others will question the move.
We all know that the Walker has been in questionable shape for many years. The reasons vary: from ineffective leadership, to declining participation and dwindling patronage from the community, to reduced funding and ineffective programming. The list literally could go on and on. Something needed to be done, because if it hadn’t, I doubt the Walker could have remained in existence.
The current Walker needed better management and it needed access to funds that could address some of the deficiencies such as operational expenses and top-tier talent.
Some people will think the latest partnership and future efforts such as a complete renovation and restructuring efforts are all part of gentrification, but that could not be further from the truth. The Walker and its legacy remain rooted in Black history and culture. As a matter of fact, the “new” Walker’s name is evidence of what is to come.
I am happy the Madam Walker Legacy Center will place considerable emphasis on the legacy of Madam Walker. While all the details haven’t been released yet, I envision a museum of sorts, but also a vibrant center that offers creative and interactive programming as well as courses on business and entrepreneurship. Such an effort would be fulfilling Madam Walker’s goal of empowering people – minorities and women in particular – to be self-sufficient.
Change is difficult for many people to adjust to. However, this is a change that is good for the community. The Walker board of directors led by Joyce Rogers as well as the efforts of key IUPUI leaders and Lilly Endowment are bringing to fruition what Walker herself said over 100 years ago…the statement I began this column with: “I want you to understand that your first duty is to humanity. I want others to look at us and see that we care not just about ourselves, but about others.”
Now that the Walker is poised to thrive and gain national prominence like other historic venues, it is imperative that the community supports this effort. There are not many Black institutions in Indiana. The Walker, the Recorder, and Robert’s Settlement are but a few of a very small group statewide. We have to support our Black institutions more. We cannot take them for granted and assume that they will always be around. The Walker was almost out of our grasp, but now, we can hold firm to it…we have to do the same to other Black institutions. As Black History Month draws near, I encourage you to make a deliberate effort to support Black businesses and organizations in Indiana. They are us and we are them.
