Who We Are
Relationships is a Black-woman-led, Global Majority-founded, 21st-century Arts and Culture organization. Founded by The Unless Society we are dedicated to cultivating creativity, curiosity, and connection to inspire change. By building at the intersection of arts, sciences, and philosophies, we create transformative experiences that break down societal divisions and foster empathy and innovation.
Our Foundations
Vision:
A world without division between communities of people, ideas, and philosophies.
Mission
To cultivate creativity, curiosity, and connection to inspire change.
Creativity
We encourage innovative thinking and artistic expression, creating an environment where creativity fuels positive change, challenges conventional norms, and inspires transformative progress in our communities. By prioritizing innovation in our programs, collaborations, and organizational practices, we continuously seek fresh perspectives to tackle societal challenges, dismantle outdated norms, and foster a more inclusive and enlightened world.
Three central concepts guide our mission.
Connection
We build meaningful relationships and bridges between diverse communities. We strengthen the bonds within and between communities to create a more harmonious world by valuing and honoring the diverse perspectives and experiences of all individuals. Through collaboration across disciplines, we work together to achieve common goals, fostering respect and unity in our collective efforts.
Curiosity
We inspire a spirit of inquiry and exploration. By embracing a mindset of continuous learning and discovery, through our programming, we encourage a deeper understanding of the world, driving thoughtful actions and innovative solutions. In our work, we integrate knowledge and experience to make thoughtful and informed decisions.
Our Values
Five core beliefs root us in our work.
Equity
Addressing systemic inequities to create fair opportunities and outcomes for all.
Decolonization
Centering Indigenous voices and practices, challenging dominant paradigms, and cultivating inclusive spaces that honor all histories and perspectives.
Collective Liberation
Recognizing that our freedom and success are interdependent, requiring mutual care and collaboration.
Justice
Dismantling oppressive systems and advocating for community empowerment.
Joy
Rooting in joy nurtures our collective well-being in the face of those who seek to extinguish our light and legacies.
Our StoryWe started as a grad school project, progressed during an evening of drinks, and grew through a pandemic. Despite changes in geographic location and changes in ourselves, we have stayed true to the foundation of our inception — we are tired of the norm, and we believe it is possible to change it.
There is power in awareness. It can change how we engage with the world around us. By exploring the intersections of our relationships with everything, we can create positive and meaningful change on our own and collectively.
So, who is the Unless Society? The story is short and sweet - Newton’s First Law. “Every body continues in its state of rest, or of uniform motion in a straight line, unless it is compelled to change that state by forces impressed upon it.”
We are the compelling force of change.