Rev. Lilada Gee, a longtime Madison community leader, preacher, artist, and founder of Defending Black Girlhood, has been named Chief Cultural Officer of The Center for Black Excellence and Culture, the non-profit announced on Wednesday.
“I am deeply honored to continue my journey with The Center as part of the leadership team,” said Gee. “I want every person to feel the essence of Black culture and Black joy the moment they walk into The Center. This space and programs will be curated with wellness, pride and a sense of belonging through art, celebration and faith.”
The Center for Black Excellence and Culture (The Center), currently under construction, will be a cultural space to celebrate and advance Wisconsin’s Black community located within the heart of a historically Black neighborhood on Madison’s South Side.
Early in the planning for The Center for Black Excellence and Culture, Gee spearheaded listening sessions across Madison’s Black community, ensuring that the plan for The Center reflected their needs, aspirations, culture and passions, according to a press release from The Center, and as Chief Cultural Officer, she will continue that mission so that all programming, spaces and operations are true to The Center’s cultural roots; advancing and inspiring Black celebration, talents and joy.
“Lilada embodies the spirit of The Center and understands how cultural grounding ignites new possibilities,” said Rev. Dr. Alex Gee, founder and CEO of The Center, in a statement. “As a lifelong teacher, advocate and role model, Lilada will let nothing stand in the way of Black artistic expression and the profound joy and belonging it creates. Her leadership will be pivotal in driving growth and creating transformative opportunities in the community’s art and expression, inspiring future generations whose excellence will shine through her support.”
