The Black-n-Brown Soulidarity Festival was conceived by Ben Rose while working for the Westside Community Development Corporation. It was brought to life with co-founders and coordinators Fabio Yataco and Brittany Crone. Together all three collaborated with residents, neighborhood organizations, stakeholders, and volunteers for the first annual festival held at Belmont Beach and Matchbox Learning School #63 in Haughville.
Brittany Crone is currently serving as a Mayor’s Neighborhood Advocate to the Downtown, Near West and West Indy neighborhoods.
Brittany says that for too long our Black and Brown communities have been pitted against one another for resources, and it has become too easy to see each other as enemies instead of allies. This festival is an exciting and important way to start healing from the oppressive narrative, where we can celebrate one another’s humanity, joy, and victories.
When she is not working, Brittany enjoys spending time in nature, watching comedies with her family, creating with her daughter, biking, singing, going to church, and volunteering in the community.
Contact Brittany for more info.
Fabio Yataco serves as a community leadership officer. In this role, he focuses on the workforce development and economic mobility portfolio, advising on the grant making processes and community issues, while providing guidance to organizations applying for grants.
He loves the coming together of our communities and celebrating the intersectionality’s of culture, history, and experience.
He enjoys spending time with family and friends, going out to eat, and being active whether that be going to the gym or playing soccer.
Contact Fabio for more info.
Ben Rose is a multi-hyphenate in the performing arts utilizing film, photography, and theatre as an engagement tool for community development. Currently he is producing a film documentary focusing on the Near West community of Haughville.
He appreciates the opportunity to help foster relationships cross culturally and celebrate the heritage of diverse communities.
Outside of work he enjoys spending time in nature, socializing with friends, and supporting his children’s activities.
Contact Ben for more information