In The Garden

From the "Black Lives Matter" paint series

Venture Smith's grave site overlooking First Congregational Church, East Haddam CT

"History Lessons"

"When I Get Home"
(an Homage to Solange Knowles composition of the same name)

Using one's Voice to fight Racism and fulfill the promise of the American Dream

from the Arts & Entertainment section of the Hartford Courant 6/26/2020

Drew John Ladd is using his voice to fight racism and fulfill a patriotic dream to make America fulfill its promise

Author Drew John Ladd, who has been fighting white supremacy through his writing for a decade was snubbed
by his local white BLM protest. "This is not an America problem," he said, "This is a lack of America problem." (Mark Mirko / Hartford Courant)

When Drew John Ladd talks, it’s captivating. He is an author, activist and speaker, and his expansive voice makes it obvious he’s the son of two preachers. 

Ladd was raised in Hartford, attended Plainville schools as part of Project Choice and unless volunteering at an East Haddam farm, always wears a kilt. His passion, apart from writing, is gardening.

Ladd meant to write fantasy novels, but the need for antiracist work derailed him and he has been working to wake America from white supremacy for years. Each time he’s found a space for his voice, he’s been surprised by thousands of listeners.

“I am just absolutely humbled to be among the millions of voices speaking. I'm not even close to the best or the only voice.”

Click Below for the full article:

https://www.courant.com/ctnow/arts-theater/hc-ctnow-drew-john-ladd-writing-racism-20200628-lolrrhmye5cg5jydax5kht2evu-story.html

Where We Need to Go