From Pain to Power: How Employment Pathways into Arts and Culture Can Mitigate Violence

Dedication to Mario Giddings ???

This article is dedicated to the memory of Mario Giddings, a young boy tragically shot near my grandmother's home, a place I frequently visit and where I spent a lot of my childhood, as well as the other Kings & Queens who are gone too soon. The incident hit close to home, not only physically but emotionally, reminding me of my own experiences—specifically with my son’s father, who survived being shot eight times. This harsh reality is what inspired the launch of the "Pain to Power" project, an initiative aimed at using music and the arts to transform pain into healing and opportunities for young people.

Music as a Medium for Healing

Music, when used positively, is one of the most powerful mediums for healing and transformation. It provides a space for emotional expression, connection, and, most importantly, it can offer a pathway out of violence. For many young people, especially those in underserved communities, music and the arts can provide a legitimate way to make a living and build a future that doesn’t involve violence.

This is why I started "Pain to Power", an initiative designed to channel the energy of those impacted by violence into creative expression. Through music, participants can turn their pain into something productive and healing, which not only helps them but also inspires others in their community.

Employment Pathways into Arts and Culture as Violence Prevention

Many BIPOC communities face a limited number of opportunities, which often forces young people into difficult situations where violence becomes an all-too-common escape or survival tactic. However, arts and culture can provide an alternative—a pathway toward purpose, financial independence, and personal development.

Research shows that when young people have access to structured employment pathways in the arts, they are more likely to stay in school, avoid criminal activity, and pursue further education or job training. Careers in music, film, design, or other creative fields help them build self-worth and provide them with opportunities to collaborate and form positive communities.

The Numbers Don't Lie: How the Arts Reduce Violence

Statistics back up the power of the arts to reduce violence. A report by the Justice Policy Institute found that students involved in after-school arts programs were four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement and three times more likely to pursue a career in the arts. Additionally, studies have shown that structured community arts programs can lead to a 67% reduction in youth reoffending rates. These programs provide more than just an outlet—they offer a chance to build a real career.

Organizations Making a Difference

There are many organizations doing the critical work of guiding youth into arts and culture careers, thereby reducing violence and giving them a chance at a brighter future. Organizations like Millionaire Minds, Black Creek Youth Initiative, Think 2wice, Frontlines, YAAACE, Urban Arts, and Jane Street Speaks have been pivotal in providing safe spaces for young people to explore their talents and connect with mentors who help guide them.

These programs are providing the resources and support that many young people need but often lack in their communities. I encourage parents to explore these programs and get their children involved early on. The earlier we can introduce youth to creative pathways, the more likely we are to reduce violence in our communities.

A Call to Action for Parents

If you're a parent or guardian, consider the long-term impact that arts and culture programs can have on your child's future. These programs not only help youth find their creative voice but also open doors to real employment opportunities, mentorship, and community.

Arts and culture aren't just hobbies—they are life-changing career paths that can reduce violence and provide financial independence. I urge parents to be proactive in seeking out these opportunities for their children.

Conclusion: From Pain to Power

As I reflect on the impact of violence on our communities and the way creative pathways can offer an alternative, I'm reminded why initiatives like "Pain to Power" are so crucial. By providing young people with the tools and opportunities to express themselves creatively and make a living through the arts, we can transform not only their lives but the lives of countless others.

Let’s continue to push for more arts and culture programs in our communities. Together, we can turn pain into power and create a future where our youth thrive.

Call to Action:

To stay informed and get involved, join my Funding | Grants | Jobs | Events | Workshops ??broadcast channel on IG and subscribe to my email list at MillionaireMommy.org. Additionally, check out our Resource Guide for more opportunities to support youth in the arts.