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Black & Brown In The Middle: Season 1

Help us to share the authentic stories of everyday Black, Brown, and Indigenous people. Our stories on our own terms.

$24,435
pledged of$100,000 goal
79
0Days Left

Project Description

Black & Brown In The Middle in dark brown with a pink, gold, and green drop shadow.

 

Healing through storytelling, on our own terms.

B&BITM develops and produces stories of everyday Black, Brown, and Indigenous folks. We dismiss stereotypes and embrace what's real—our joys, pain, passions, and everything in between. We reflect on the past, share life’s lessons, and let healing guide the creative process to create opportunities for audiences to see the humanity in one another. 

Check out the pilot episode of our docuseries on vimeo!

 

Our 'Why.'

In 2022, media still under-represents the diversity of Black, Brown, and Indigenous communities with stereotypical characters from opposite ends of a spectrum, overlooking all who exist in the middle. We continue to see overplayed storylines around drugs and violence, or star athletes and musicians adopted as tokens in the mainstream. So much of our communities exist in the middle of that, but those stories are not represented. We're here to change that.

 

Community, not Customers.

In 2021, the top streaming and social media platforms attracted an average of over 470 million users or subscribers, and they brought in a total of almost $200 billion in revenue.  According to Keep the Earth, television and movie representation stands at only 15.7% Black characters and 4.9% Hispanic/Latino characters, yet we are the biggest consumers of media. We're on a mission to change all of that by creating media with and for its viewers. Of the hundreds of millions who use social media and watch content via streaming platforms, we've focused on attracting customers that feel more like family - a family that aligns with our mission of offering alternatives to mainstream media that better represent our communities.

 

What We Do.

Our team of creatives develops and produces stories with everyday Black, Brown, and Indigenous folks through film, photography, and writing. Our projects celebrate all of who we are—exploring the extraordinary and ordinary lives we live within our communities. These stories invite folks into healing conversations and offer space to build meaningful relationships and understanding across communities. 

To invest in the long-term impact of this work, we also offer creative services to help organizations take an actionable step towards appreciating diversity and setting an inclusive stage where teams feel they belong. We collaborate with businesses to provide a creative outlet for underrepresented folks to show up and communicate authentically at work.

Gif of behind the scenes footage on-set with Black & Brown In The Middle.

 

We Pay BIPOC Creatives for Their Labor.

We are seeking funding to cover production costs for the rest of our first season of our docuseries and upcoming projects throughout 2022 that will highlight the contributions of BIPOC communities. In addition to improving representation of Black, Brown, and Indigenous people in media, we hope that these projects will show potential clients, particularly businesses looking to improve the experiences of employees from underrepresented or historically marginalized communities and identities. 

As a BIPOC-led team, we are committed to paying the creatives we work with appropriate rates that align with the domain knowledge and experience they each bring to the project. We will be using this funding to support that goal, along with equipment and location rentals, distribution costs, festival fees, and marketing materials to expand our reach beyond our immediate network. 

 

It Takes a Whole Village.

We have a powerful team behind the cause, and we're ready to get to work.

Black & Brown In The Middle Team | From Top Left - Kendra Williams (Founder & Producer), Lindsay Dabalos (Director + HMUA), Nino Fernandez (Director of Photography), Karen Santos (Photographer + Art Director), Brooke Dabalos (Brand + Content Strategist), Brittany Levers (Marketing Advisor), Sheilah Casaclang (Operations Manager), Shayna Pepin (Operations Advisor)
Visit our website here to learn more about our advisors and creative team!

 

Get Right in the Middle.

We can't bring Black & Brown into the middle without your partnership. Through our community, we have put together some great rewards for those who choose to contribute - check them out over to the right. We'll also be releasing new rewards throughout the campaign, so stay tuned by visiting our website to sign up for our newsletter and following us on social media.

From all of us at Black & Brown In The Middle, thank you for your support and belief in what we're doing. Every dollar, every share, and every bit of encouragement will help us to bring healing to our communities through storytelling. Thank you for joining this movement!

Colorful graphic with text "See you in the middle!" and the campaign hashtag #ifundblacknbrownitm.

The Campaign FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Why is the business named "Black & Brown In The Middle"?
    • We believe everyone deserves an opportunity to feel seen, and for too long, Black and Brown folks have been on the sidelines. We put our stories in the middle to highlight our authentic experiences.
  • When will I receive my rewards?
    • Your address will be collected during checkout, and we'll ship your reward once the campaign has closed. You can expect to receive it in the mail by the end of April!
  • Can I contribute without receiving a reward?
    • Thank you for your generosity! Yes, there is an option titled "Monetary Contribution" that allows you to contribute without receiving any rewards. 

 

 

Jane Krejci
05/31/2022
Monetary Contribution
$100
Chelsea Rangel
05/14/2022
Vegan Pimpin Chkn ITM - Bay Area Fam!
$100
Elizabeth Mrizek
05/13/2022
Vegan Pimpin Chkn ITM - Bay Area Fam!
$100
Lamont Strong
05/12/2022
ITM Neighbors
$50
Michele B. Cole
05/12/2022
Monetary Contribution
$75
Vicky
05/11/2022
ITM Friends & Family
$150
Debra Chappell
05/10/2022
ITM Neighbors
$50
Marla Jones
05/10/2022
ITM Friends & Family
$150
Teri Alugas
05/08/2022
Vegan Pimpin Chkn ITM - Bay Area Fam!
$100
05/01/2022
Intuitive Readings with Brooke D
$150
Monetary Contribution

No Reward - Just Love!

20 Supporters
Select this reward
25.00 USD
ITM Cheer Section

As part of our "In The Middle Cheer Section," you will get one of our super fly special edition Black & Brown In The Middle keychains and a handwritten thank you from the crew. We can't wait to connect with you! 

42 Left
8 Supporters
Select this reward
50.00 USD
ITM Neighbors

Our "In The Middle Neighbors" will receive one of our super fly keychains and a t-shirt with an exclusive design to rock all summer long. Make sure to show us how good you look by tagging @blacknbrownitm in your social media pics or sending one to us via email ([email protected])!

8 Left
22 Supporters
Select this reward
100.00 USD
Pimpin Chkn ITM - Bay Area Fam!

Hey Bay Area Fam! If you snag one of these "Pimpin Chkn In The Middle" packages, you will DEFINITELY not regret it. Come get a taste of East Oakland's BEST fried chicken sandwich. Not sure what to wear when you come for your pick-up? We've got you covered with a t-shirt with an exclusive design that you're gonna to want to rock all summer! 

10 Supporters
None available
100.00 USD
Vegan Pimpin Chkn ITM - Bay Area Fam!

Hey Bay Area Vegan Fam! Of course we didn't forget about y'all! If you snag one of these "Vegan Pimpin Chkn In The Middle" packages, you WON'T regret it. Come get a taste of East Oakland's BEST vegan fried chicken sandwich. Not sure what to wear when you come for your pick-up? We've got you covered with a t-shirt with an exclusive design that you're gonna to want to rock all summer! 

6 Left
4 Supporters
Select this reward
150.00 USD
ITM Friends & Family

When you join the "In The Middle Friends & Family," we'll send you one of our newly designed exclusive t-shirts along with a handwritten note from the crew. There's more! You'll also get to have a 20 minute coffee chat with our Founder, Kendra Williams. Get those juicy questions ready, y'all!

12 Left
8 Supporters
Select this reward
150.00 USD
Intuitive Readings with Brooke D

With this reward, you will receive a 30 minute Intuitive Reading with The Lady of Lightning (and our Social Media Strategist and Content Creator) Brooke Dabalos. 

[From her website] Are you in the midst of a major life change, and need help seeing the bigger picture? Intuitive Readings give you the space to step back, and find the clarity you have been seeking. Become aware of your mental and emotional blocks. Open your eyes to the opportunities for growth and healing in your current situation. Be heard, acknowledged, and inspired to do what is best for you. 

All sessions are only available via phone. Skype also available upon request.

3 Left
1 Supporter
Select this reward
250.00 USD
Hair & Makeup Consults with Lindsay D

With this reward, you will get a one hour consultation with the Bay Area's best Transformation Specialist (and our Director) Lindsay Dabalos. You'll have the opportunity to talk hair, makeup, and wellness products that would cater and enhance your daily routines!

 

6 Left
0 Supporters
Select this reward
250.00 USD
ITM Crew

As part of the "In The Middle Crew," we become co-collaborators in the movement to bring Black & Brown into the middle. Let us share who you are and how you contribute to the healing of our communities! We'll partner with you to create a spotlight for our social media platforms so that your story and message can get out into the world!

18 Left
2 Supporters
Select this reward
500.00 USD
ITM Star

Get ready to see your name on the big screen because as an "In The Middle Star." we'll include you with a special thanks in the credits of an upcoming season 1 episode. We'll also shout you out on social media, and include you in our exclusive pre-release group for episodes 2 and 3. If you want to make it super official,  wear one of our exclusive t-shirts with a brand new design that we'll send you while you watch!

 

8 Left
2 Supporters
Select this reward
7,000.00 USD
Solopreneur Story Package

We want to put you and your work in the middle with our Solopreneur Story Package! This photo and video package includes the following: 

  • 4 hr photo + film shoot produced by Kendra Williams
  • 5 edited images with Karen Santos
  • Hair & Makeup with Lindsay Dabalos (2 looks)
  • 2-3 minute edited video shot by Nino Fernandez
3 Left
2 Supporters
Select this reward
15,000.00 USD
Business Storytelling Package

If your business aligns with the mission of B&BITM, then we want to celebrate that by helping you to develop a beautiful, authentic story about what you do for the world! Our Business Storytelling package includes the following: 

  • Full day photo + film shoot produced by Kendra Williams
  • Up to 8 subjects (1 look per person)
  • 16 edited images by Karen Santos
  • 4-5 minute edited video shot by Nino Fernandez
  • Hair & Makeup refresh by Lindsay Dabalos
5 Left
0 Supporters
Select this reward

About the Entrepreneur

Rewards

Monetary Contribution

No Reward - Just Love!

20 Supporters
Select this reward
25.00 USD
ITM Cheer Section

As part of our "In The Middle Cheer Section," you will get one of our super fly special edition Black & Brown In The Middle keychains and a handwritten thank you from the crew. We can't wait to connect with you! 

42 Left
8 Supporters
Select this reward
50.00 USD
ITM Neighbors

Our "In The Middle Neighbors" will receive one of our super fly keychains and a t-shirt with an exclusive design to rock all summer long. Make sure to show us how good you look by tagging @blacknbrownitm in your social media pics or sending one to us via email ([email protected])!

8 Left
22 Supporters
Select this reward
100.00 USD
Pimpin Chkn ITM - Bay Area Fam!

Hey Bay Area Fam! If you snag one of these "Pimpin Chkn In The Middle" packages, you will DEFINITELY not regret it. Come get a taste of East Oakland's BEST fried chicken sandwich. Not sure what to wear when you come for your pick-up? We've got you covered with a t-shirt with an exclusive design that you're gonna to want to rock all summer! 

10 Supporters
None available
100.00 USD
Vegan Pimpin Chkn ITM - Bay Area Fam!

Hey Bay Area Vegan Fam! Of course we didn't forget about y'all! If you snag one of these "Vegan Pimpin Chkn In The Middle" packages, you WON'T regret it. Come get a taste of East Oakland's BEST vegan fried chicken sandwich. Not sure what to wear when you come for your pick-up? We've got you covered with a t-shirt with an exclusive design that you're gonna to want to rock all summer! 

6 Left
4 Supporters
Select this reward
150.00 USD
ITM Friends & Family

When you join the "In The Middle Friends & Family," we'll send you one of our newly designed exclusive t-shirts along with a handwritten note from the crew. There's more! You'll also get to have a 20 minute coffee chat with our Founder, Kendra Williams. Get those juicy questions ready, y'all!

12 Left
8 Supporters
Select this reward
150.00 USD
Intuitive Readings with Brooke D

With this reward, you will receive a 30 minute Intuitive Reading with The Lady of Lightning (and our Social Media Strategist and Content Creator) Brooke Dabalos. 

[From her website] Are you in the midst of a major life change, and need help seeing the bigger picture? Intuitive Readings give you the space to step back, and find the clarity you have been seeking. Become aware of your mental and emotional blocks. Open your eyes to the opportunities for growth and healing in your current situation. Be heard, acknowledged, and inspired to do what is best for you. 

All sessions are only available via phone. Skype also available upon request.

3 Left
1 Supporter
Select this reward
250.00 USD
Hair & Makeup Consults with Lindsay D

With this reward, you will get a one hour consultation with the Bay Area's best Transformation Specialist (and our Director) Lindsay Dabalos. You'll have the opportunity to talk hair, makeup, and wellness products that would cater and enhance your daily routines!

 

6 Left
0 Supporters
Select this reward
250.00 USD
ITM Crew

As part of the "In The Middle Crew," we become co-collaborators in the movement to bring Black & Brown into the middle. Let us share who you are and how you contribute to the healing of our communities! We'll partner with you to create a spotlight for our social media platforms so that your story and message can get out into the world!

18 Left
2 Supporters
Select this reward
500.00 USD
ITM Star

Get ready to see your name on the big screen because as an "In The Middle Star." we'll include you with a special thanks in the credits of an upcoming season 1 episode. We'll also shout you out on social media, and include you in our exclusive pre-release group for episodes 2 and 3. If you want to make it super official,  wear one of our exclusive t-shirts with a brand new design that we'll send you while you watch!

 

8 Left
2 Supporters
Select this reward
7,000.00 USD
Solopreneur Story Package

We want to put you and your work in the middle with our Solopreneur Story Package! This photo and video package includes the following: 

  • 4 hr photo + film shoot produced by Kendra Williams
  • 5 edited images with Karen Santos
  • Hair & Makeup with Lindsay Dabalos (2 looks)
  • 2-3 minute edited video shot by Nino Fernandez
3 Left
2 Supporters
Select this reward
15,000.00 USD
Business Storytelling Package

If your business aligns with the mission of B&BITM, then we want to celebrate that by helping you to develop a beautiful, authentic story about what you do for the world! Our Business Storytelling package includes the following: 

  • Full day photo + film shoot produced by Kendra Williams
  • Up to 8 subjects (1 look per person)
  • 16 edited images by Karen Santos
  • 4-5 minute edited video shot by Nino Fernandez
  • Hair & Makeup refresh by Lindsay Dabalos
5 Left
0 Supporters
Select this reward