“I Am Vermont Too” began in March of 2014. Modeled after the I Too, Am Harvard initiative, the I Am Vermont Too photo-story project shines a light on the diversity of identities and experiences of Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) all across the State of Vermont. It looks to provide an opportunity for reflection and dialogue for majority-white communities who may be unaware of their participation in perpetuating racial stereotypes and harming BIPOC.

Members of majority-white communities in Vermont often do not interact with BIPOC on a daily basis. When they do, they can be unaware of their offensive and racist acts and behaviors. Often these offensive acts and behaviors come in the form of racial microaggressions. Racial microaggressions are subtle behaviors, acts, or environmental conditions that either intentionally or unintentionally communicate hostile, derogatory, or negative racial slights and insults towards BIPOC. These forms of aggression have a significant impact on one's’ sense of self and place in a community.

The I Am Vermont Too project is a medium for BIPOC to tell our own stories and convey that this type of racism has a significant impact in our lives. This is the first known statewide, multi-generation project done only by BIPOC living and going to school in the state.

As our collection of photos continues to grow, we have been collaborating with organizations throughout the state to host “Visible in Vermont” events, which consists of community-based photo booth sessions, a public exhibition of the “I Am Vermont Too” collection, and a BIPOC-led panel discussion. For upcoming events and/or to participate in the program check out our calendar or Facebook page for upcoming events.