Radical Imagination: An Afrofuturism and Creative Aging Program for Black Women’s Brain Health and Wellness

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Intersectional oppression and invisibility are primary drivers of cognitive and mental health disparities which affect Black women’s wellness. Older Black women additionally experience compounding effects of ageism, which may place them at increased risk for decline in cognitive functioning and mental wellness. To date, limited strengths-based, culturally relevant programming has focused on aging Black women. Fewer have incorporated Black women elders into conversations on Black liberation and the trans-formational change needed to create possible futures rooted in equity, healing, and health. This manuscript describes the inception and development of Radical Imagination, a creative aging program for Black women in the San Francisco Bay Area. Over ten weeks, 42 Black women (M age = 73.9, SD = 6.17; range: 58-85 years old) participated in the program which incorporated brain and mental health education, art-making, storytelling, and photography. Grounded in principles of Afrofuturism and radical healing, participants explored past narratives of Black women and created a collective vision for a future that centers Black women’s need. Approximately 54.8% of participants attended more than one workshop. Upon program completion, exit surveys indicated participants re-ported a moderate level of hopefulness about their ability to shape the future. Respondents reported overall satisfaction with the workshop series. We conclude with re-flections on our process and recommendations of ways to support aging Black women using Afrofuturism and the arts.