Embracing Our Differences in 2025

"If They Only Knew" by Kenneth Cjay (Nigeria) 

It's the time of year once again for one of my favorite events -- the Embracing Our Differences exhibit in Bayfront Park. The exhibit - now in its 22nd year -- celebrates kindness, respect and inclusion. As always, the selection process must have been incredibly difficult. This year's art and quotation submissions numbered more than 10,000 and came from participants in 122 countries, 46 states and 511 schools. It was great fun to tour the 50 billboard--sized works, picking our favorites while listening in on the thoughts of other visitors. 

As you enter the exhibit, "If They Only Knew" by Kenneth Cjay greets you. The figure -- starkly posed in front of a monochromatic background -- brought to mind the work of Amy Sherald, the artist who painted First Lady Michelle Obama's portrait. The paired quotation, submitted by Canadian Raemus Castelino, reads, "People remember you for how you stood out, not how you fit in." In a video made for the project, Cjay shared that his work is a response to divisions caused by tribal discrimination arising from stereotypes. He went on to say, "Each person is unique and carries his own talents....Art is not just about creating, it's about connecting." 

"A Glimpse into the Future" by Claudia Balbuena (Sarasota)

Then there was "A Glimpse into the Future" by Claudia Balbuena, a senior at Sarasota High School. The related quotation came from Bradenton resident Dena Sturm and reads, "Aspire to inspire. Make your aspiration your inspiration." I love the idea of kids looking into a mirror and imagining their future selves, whether it be as a judge, a farmer or a chef. 

I suspect this work will be a favorite of the many students who see the exhibit. Embracing Our Differences does more than hope that kids will make their way there. Expenses for school field trips, including the cost of transportation and a guide, are covered by the organization thanks to the support of sponsors and donors large and small. Virtual field trips are also available for school groups outside the Sarasota area. Last year 278 teachers took advantage of this opportunity, enabling more than 14,000 students to experience the exhibit. 

"Right to Speak and See" by Aleh Barouski

"Right to See and Speak" jumped off the billboard at me. How could it not? This disturbing work was submitted by Aleh Barouski from Belarus. The related quote reads, "Be the voice of freedom in a world of silence" and was submitted by Carina Araujo, a seventh grader from Maryland. 

I will admit to not being conversant on human rights issues in Belarus, but a quick search revealed that the far right retains tight control of the government there. One of the "highlights" about Belarus in Amnesty International's 2023/2024 summary notes that the justice system continues to be abused to suppress dissent. It goes on to say that refugees and migrants suffered abuses at the hands of the authorities. These statements ring too close to home in our current world. 

"Stolen Spring" by Alena Grom (Ukraine) 

I'll leave you with a heartbreaking photo that contains a ray of hope. Artist Alena Grom lives in Bucha, Ukraine, a city destroyed during the Russian invasion. In her series of photographs taken amidst the rubble, Grom reveals a spirit of determination and perhaps even hope for the future. Instead of merely showing the devastation, her work features women affected by Russia's invasion posed in front of a colorful backdrop. 

Grom's series honors the resilience of the Ukrainian people who are striving to restore their lives. It is also an homage to the work of Michael Nash, a Polish photographer. During WWII, Nash photographed people standing in front of a bucolic backdrop with the war-torn city of Warsaw in the background. To see an example of his work, click here. The related quote, penned by Sarasota resident Craig E. Ullom, reads, "We must have the commitment to care, the confidence to dream, the will to act, and the courage to persevere." 

Embracing Our Difference's exhibit will continue at Bayfront Park through April 13th. The exhibit can also be seen at St. Pete's Poytner Park from March 1 - March 31.  For more information about the show and Embracing Our Differences' other initatives, click here.