In Solidarity with Waymakers Collective

The Alliance for Appalachia stands in deep solidarity with the Waymakers Collective, a radical grant-making group in Appalachia that empowers artists overlooked by traditional philanthropy. They’ve allocated over $1 million to uplift marginalized communities, with a focus on Black, Indigenous, LGBTQ, and immigrant individuals. Waymakers, who celebrate Appalachia’s diverse traditions, recently faced intimidation during a retreat in Harlan County, KY, where local individuals obstructed their activities, causing distress and safety concerns for Collective members.

No Hate in Our Holler!

Y’all means ALL!

At the Alliance for Appalachia, we share core beliefs with the Waymakers Collective. Some of our members are also leaders and members of the Collective. We believe in the wisdom of our communities and in centering the voices of people most targeted for oppression. In fighting for our communities against the oppressive forces of extraction, we fight for all communities. We believe that by building power and connecting people of all backgrounds and identities that we grow in strength. We will not compromise on our values and we will stand by our friends when they are threatened or challenged. 

Read more about the events and how the Collective is responding in their statement. To show your support and solidarity, consider sharing their story and sending a donation. Make sure to include a designation to “Waymakers Collective.”