Black Activist You Should Know: Anya Dillard
As we approach our 13th year of gift-giving, this is officially the longest-running charity initiative I’ve ever spearheaded. My time at the hospital taught me that there were so many different kinds of people in this world, and the fact that there are a lot of kids who grow up not understanding that is so harmful. That’s why there is still so much hatred, such a lack of understanding for other people’s experiences, and such a lack of empathy everywhere, from our public school environments to the White House.
What’s the biggest accomplishment you’re proud of?
If I had to choose one thing that I’m most proud of, it would have to be the network of support I’ve developed through connecting with other youth. Because of the work that I’ve done, I’ve gotten opportunities to speak at schools, events, and youth mentorship programs all over the world. I receive so many messages — some from parents and kids as young as eight years old — telling me that I inspired them to start their own charity initiatives, strive to be changemakers in their desired career field, stand up to bullies in school, or even try out for that school club they were always scared to join.
I have also mentored young girls and assisted them in developing nonprofit organizations and charity initiatives of their own. Being able to serve as a positive support for youth all over the world has been such an honor, and even after I’m gone, I hope to leave behind a legacy that continues to inspire young people to be bold, to be kind, and to be changemakers in their life paths.
When thinking about your own Black history, what brings you the most joy?
When I think about my Black history, the vibrance and overwhelming presence of Black love throughout my upbringing brings me the most joy.
I was born into a big family of Black creatives, artists, and entrepreneurs, and grew up in an upper-middle-class suburb in West Orange, New Jersey. Growing up in a diverse area, I had grown up with every kind of person; no matter their color, gender, class, or creed, everyone was my friend and a member of my community.
