Richmond For The Win

During a global pandemic, a politically divided nation, and a resurgence for social justice, the creatives of Richmond, Virginia are finding a way to thrive. Local advertising entities like The Martin Agency, Arts & Letters, and the VCU Brandcenter, along with individual artists, makers and doers, are helping to make “RVA” one of the top creative cities in the U.S. that’s also leading the way in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. This essay was written to celebrate my hometown becoming known not merely as a backdrop for creativity, but the inspiration for it; with a history that’s becoming less of a burden, and more of an impetus for change. From ads to activism, Richmond is full of promise and I’m proud to say, no longer the Capital of the Confederacy, but of creativity.