Expanding on its promise to uplift Black creators, YouTube has developed a special #YouTubeBlack Voices grant program. Over several years, the platform will invest the money into more than 500 creators to help them develop content and grow their channels.
This year, 132 creators across the world will receive funding. Of that number, YouTube is announcing its list of 36 U.S. creators first, which includes comedian KevOnStage, activist and host Amber’s Closet, and digital storyteller Evelyn From The Internets. All 132 creators are being recognized as the #YouTubeBlackVoices Creator Class of 2021.
For a brief introduction to the U.S. grantees, watch the video below:
The #YouTubeBlack Voices grant program is made possible by the larger #YouTubeBlack Voices Fund. Announced in 2020, the $100M, multiyear initiative was created to amplify Black voices and perspectives on YouTube. Some of the original programs that have been funded so far, such as the “Bear Witness, Take Action” virtual event, emphasized the urgent need for racial justice. It was a timely response to police violence against people of color, especially after the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and other Black citizens in America.
These initiatives may seem new, but YouTube has been developing them for years. In 2016, the platform hosted its first #YouTubeBlack Summit, where influential Black creators held insightful discussions with one another. In subsequent years, YouTube kept the momentum going with a slew of events. There were workshops, more summits, and exciting festivals, such as the #YouTubeBlack FanFest in 2019.
Going forward, YouTube will not only fund individual Black creators but help create/pick up YouTube Originals that highlight racial justice and Black experiences. The #YouTubeBlack Voices Fund will help these projects come to fruition, and we’re excited to see what happens.
From all of us at vidIQ, congratulations to the #YouTubeBlackVoices Creator Class of 2021! Whether you’re a YouTube creator or passionate viewer, drop by these creators’ channels to support their content:
*The list above includes 35 creators. According to YouTube, not all 36 creators choose to participate in the formal list.
Lydia Sweatt is a writer who loves balancing her article/blog time indoors with a healthy dose of nature. She bikes, hikes, and identifies edible plants along the way.
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