What do you want people to know about Baltimore?

I wish people knew that Baltimore has nearly three times more micro businesses than the national average. These businesses add to the character, vibrancy, and charm of the city. I believe the possibility for intergenerational learning between young people and the micro business community is something to get excited about!

Bakari Jones

Community Research and action committee

Bakari Jones (any/all) is a Baltimore-based generalist whose work centers Black, women, LGBTQ, and gender non-conforming communities. Bakari's work is guided by Black Feminist Thought, Black Liberation Theology, and “Black joy” as a mantra of resistance. Bakari earned a bachelor’s degree in African American studies from Temple University, a master’s degree in business administration from Loyola University Maryland, and certificates in front-end web development and in somatic embodiment and regulation strategies.

Bakari is most proud of serving as an AmeriCorps VISTA in post-Katrina New Orleans, of supporting communications strategy for the campaign of California State Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas, and of creating Lor Rube—a community-built Rube Goldberg machine highlighting the disparities experienced by Black, queer, and trans youth in Baltimore City attempting to access city services.

As their work continues to evolve, Bakari is most curious about the insights that can be gleaned from those with intersectional identities.