The ILLUSTRATION

BRINGING POLICY AND ART TOGETHER

When we set out to collectively reimagine a just and equitable future, we knew that so much of what we envisioned could feel invisible or intangible. Right now, when we talk about bold progressive policies there’s a lack of imagination that keeps people from opening themselves up to these ideas. What do these things even look like? Our vision is here to help fill in that blank. 

The Dare to Reimagine illustration is a tribute to the bold ideas and progress that will create a more just and equitable future. It is a visual reminder that not only is this work needed, it is possible. 

There are three iterations of the illustration -- each representing different types of localities and geographies that exist across our diverse network. 

Because the absence of unjust, destructive structures alone won’t produce equity, the illustration intentionally centers and uplifts the new, equitable structures we need. It defines our vision by what we want, not by what we don’t. We center Main Street -- because in a just and equitable future that is the center of our economy. Instead of statues that pay tribute to white America, we center the infrastructures created by community wealth and symbols of a people-centered democracy. We uplift symbols of thriving communities -- safe, affordable housing, dignified work, accessible public transportation, and fully funded public schools  -- and the colors are bold and bright, like our future. 

The illustration was created in collaboration with Laura Chow Reeve of Radical Roadmaps, a queer mixed Chinese femme illustrator based in Richmond, VA. Based on conversations during our virtual convening and the case studies from across the country, she helped identify the ideas and concepts that resonated strongest across the network.