MCAD 2025 Speaker Series: Omari Souza
Omari will discuss his forthcoming book, Design Against Racism: Creating Work That Transforms Communities
A historical and philosophical exploration of the impact of design on underserved communities, examining the field’s shortcomings as well as its potential to create positive change. Through essays that delve into history and practice, and case studies that demonstrate practical strategies, Design Against Racism explores how designers of all disciplines can address, through their work, the legacies of racism and oppression.
Design profoundly influences culture. The heart of this book is its powerful blend of essays on design history, illustrated case studies, and discussions of practical methods to approach design work, adapted from the restorative justice movement. It explores how design as a professional practice and academic discipline directly affects historically excluded communities, offering frameworks and examples that foster collective improvement.
Topics from author Omari Souza, founder of the annual State of Black Design conference, and contributing design professionals include:
- Unveiling the White Gaze: The Narrative of Whiteness and Colonial Nostalgia
- Language as a Tool for Marginalization—and Resistance
- Hip-Hop Architecture: Transforming Spaces through Culture and Innovation
- Afrofuturism as a Design Strategy
- Whose Knowledge Is It? Reclaiming Histories, Narratives, and the Plurality of Knowledge
- Nonhierarchical Engagement with Communities—Anti-Racist Design Community Pop-Up
This is a critique of design and a practical handbook that will teach designers and educators how a restorative justice approach can transform their design practice to counteract and fight racism
Bio:
Omari Souza is an accomplished Assistant Professor of Communication Design. With a diverse background and wealth of experience. He has made significant contributions to various industries and academic institutions. Omari's journey as a first-generation American began in the vibrant borough of the Bronx, New York. His cultural heritage traces back to his Jamaican roots, adding a unique perspective to his work and worldview. Before his academic career, Omari held pivotal roles at esteemed organizations such as VIBE magazine, Capital One, CBS Radio, and Case Western Reserve University. These experiences gave him invaluable insights into media, broadcasting, and higher education.
Omari was a former co-host the highly acclaimed podcast, "The Design of Business | The Business of Design minisode." This engaging platform delves into the intricate workings of design within complex organizations, influencing decisions, products, and more. As a co-host, Omari brings together industry experts and designers from diverse fields to explore the impact of design on various aspects of business.
Recognizing the importance of representation and inclusivity in design, Omari is the visionary founder of the State of Black Design conference. This groundbreaking conference aims to celebrate, promote, and amplify the voices and contributions of Black designers, fostering a more equitable and diverse design industry.
In his research pursuits, Omari focuses on methods of decolonizing design practices and conducting ethical research. His exploration of these critical areas challenges existing norms and strives to create a more inclusive and responsible design landscape. With his multifaceted background, Omari Souza brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and a commitment to positive change in communication design. His contributions and insights continue to shape the industry and inspire the next generation of designers.