Way Outta No Way

Way Outta No Way is a dynamic web-based experience that blends a systems analysis of racism with compelling character-driven stories, supported by rigorous research. It demonstrates the power of Black life and culture to originate rich modes of human resistance and resilience. The creation of Way Outta No Way was made possible by generous grants from the Mellon Foundation and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

By centering the lived experiences of an intergenerational African American family and their community, Way Outta No Way sensitively captures the dynamic tension at heart of the Systemic Racism and Resilience Project: the devastating loss, suffering and systemic barriers to human thriving that define “no way out”—and the enduring power of Black imagination, resilience and freedom-dreaming that insist on living and loving forward. A way out of no way.

The Way Outta No Way experience is enhanced by the Spirit Stays Free YouTube channel, companion guides, and more. Please keep in touch with the latest updates by joining our mailing list.

What people are saying about Way Outta No Way

  • "The whole thing brought systemic racism to a much more emotional and personal level than I had previously experienced. It resonated very deeply and in new ways."

  • "I felt vindicated reading through the site because it validated my life experiences, but it also saddened me that this is and has been Black people's reality. My reality."

  • "When you're looking as a Black person [you think] 'that's my grandmother, that's my parents'... almost anybody looking at this website can think of a story in their family that [relates]."

  • "I love that the content is written for anyone to understand but doesn't over-simplify the topic."

  • "I found the website both visually stunning and deeply insightful."

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