The Madam Walker Théâtre

The Madam Walker Théâtre

6/27/2024

617 Indiana Avenue, Suite 320

Indianapolis, Indiana 46202

(317) 236-2099

[email protected]

The Madam Walker Théâtre: Protecting Freedom of Speech and Expression

Dear Tanasha Anders, Vice President of National Programming and Fund Development,

I am writing to express my deep concern about Indiana Senate Bill 17, which poses a significant threat to free speech and artistic expression. As a long-time admirer of the Madam Walker Legacy Center and its mission, I am compelled to speak out against this bill.

Indiana Senate Bill 17 aims to restrict artistic expression and free speech, specifically targeting marginalized communities. If passed, it would have a chilling effect on creativity, innovation, and social progress.

The Madam Walker Legacy Center is a vital institution that celebrates the legacy of Madam C.J. Walker, a pioneering African American entrepreneur and philanthropist. Her legacy is a testament to the power of resilience and determination, and her impact on the community is immeasurable. As an African American woman, I am deeply inspired by her story and the positive influence she has had on my life.

The Madam Walker Theatre has been a hub for artistic expression, cultural events, and community gatherings, including the recent Legacy Fest Block Party, which I attended and thoroughly enjoyed. The theatre's commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion is evident in its programming and advocacy for marginalized communities, including the LGBTQIA+ community.

As a former semi-finalist for the National Pride Grant 2024 by Founders First CDC, I understand the importance of having a platform to advocate for grants and donations. Although I didn't receive the grant, I completed the Passport to Funding Program, received my Passport Certification, and remain committed to supporting organizations like the Madam Walker Legacy Center that champion marginalized communities. I did not receive funding, but did take pre-requisition courses and passed with a certification. Gaining more knowledge will benefit me in future goals, grants, and innovative ideas. I am thankful for that opportunity and experience.

However, Indiana Senate Bill 17 poses a significant threat to this legacy and the freedom of speech that we hold dear. If legislation similar to Senate Bill 17 is adopted by 16 more states, it could trigger a constitutional amendment, leading to nationwide censorship and a devastating blow to our freedom of speech and expression.

Specifically, Senate Bill 17's restrictions would harm artistic expression, limiting the ability of marginalized communities to share their stories and experiences. This could lead to further silencing and erasure of already vulnerable groups.

I urge you to join me in advocating against Indiana Senate Bill 17 and its potential spread to other states. Let's work together to:

- Raise awareness about the bill's harmful impact

- Encourage state representatives to reject similar legislation

- Support organizations that champion free speech and artistic expression

I respectfully request that you publicly speak out against Indiana Senate Bill 17, write to your representatives, and mobilize your network to take action.

We must act swiftly to prevent a ripple effect of censorship across our country. Your leadership and influence can make a significant difference in this fight.

As a leader in the Madam Walker Legacy Center, your voice carries significant weight in this fight. I implore you to use your platform to speak out against Indiana Senate Bill 17, mobilize your network, and encourage state representatives to reject similar legislation.

Together, we can make a difference and ensure that our constitutional right to free speech remains protected.

Sincerely,

Denelsia Walker

Indiana Senate Bill 17

- Official document: https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2024/bills/senate/17

- News article: https://indianacapitalchronicle.com/briefs/you-will-lose-access-pornhub-warns-hoosier-users-as-state-prepares-to-enact-age-verification-law/

Importance of Free Speech and Artistic Expression

- UNESCO: https://www.unesco.org/articles/protect-artists-defend-freedom-expression

- Mash Gallery: https://www.mashgallery.com/art-and-the-power-of-freedom-of-expression

- Freedex: https://freedex.org/2020/07/research-report-on-artistic-freedom-of-expression

- Artist Strong: https://www.artiststrong.com/how-art-is-an-act-of-freedom

- University of Michigan: https://spg.umich.edu/policy/freedom-of-speech-and-artistic-expression

- Freedom Forum: https://www.freedomforum.org/art-censorship-first-amendment-violation-or-private-free-speech

- The Council of Europe: https://www.coe.int/en/web/culture-and-heritage/manifesto-on-the-freedom-of-expression-of-arts-and-culture-in-the-digital-era

- American Civil Liberties Union: https://www.aclu.org/issues/free-speech/artistic-expression

- Freemuse: https://freemuse.org/media/the-state-of-artistic-freedom-2022

- The Free Speech Project: https://freespeechproject.georgetown.edu/decline-of-artistic-freedom-in-america

Madam Walker Legacy Center's Impact

- Community Link: https://www.wishtv.com/community/community-link/community-link-the-her-story-of-the-madam-walker-legacy-center

- Indiana Historical Society: https://indianahistory.org/education/education-resources/educator-resources/famous-hoosiers/madam-c-j-walker

- Indiana University: https://news.iu.edu/live/news/24545-madam-walker-theatre-center-and-iu-begin

- WRTV: https://www.wrtv.com/news/local-news/3rd-annual-legacy-fest-block-party-highlights-madam-c-j-walker-black-music-month

- Harvard Business Review: https://hbr.org/2020/12/how-madam-c-j-walker-built-racial-equity-into-her-business