The 1828 Project’s one of our signature programs at IndyHub, and each year it’s full of incredible leaders between the ages of 18 and 28. Elle is a part of 1828’s Class IV. We sent her some questions. She responded. We totally think you should meet her, so keep reading.
IndyHub: How would you describe 1828 to a stranger?
Elle: 1828 is a launching pad for professionals age 18-28 in Indianapolis seeking to connect with fellow young people and building relationships with experienced community builders working in a multitude of areas throughout the city.
How many years have you lived in Indy? What are your favorite Indy spots?
I’ve lived in Indy for just a year and a half. I love my home and those of my friends, the IMA and Central Library, and Sobro Cafe!
How would you describe your connection with Indianapolis when you began 1828?
I am just beginning to grow my roots in the city as a newcomer from northwest Indiana. Everything I’ve accomplished and created here has been a direct result of the personal and professional relationships I’ve built. 1828 is an extension of that process of connecting to a new place. I’m honored to have been chosen for the opportunity.
What’s your current elevator speech?
I’m about to celebrate the first anniversary of my project shehive. I am a musician and community activist surrounded by incredibly talented women. We create safe spaces for people to confront and deconstruct gender inequity in Indy, through ongoing conversation, performance art and targeted organizing. My identity drives my politics so the project is centered completely on uplifting Black and Brown women and girls.
What project are you most excited about in Indy?
To be honest, the women317 event I organize and host through shehive is the highlight of my experience so far. We’re planning our fourth show, which will fall on the first anniversary of the project in March. The show features all women visual and performing artists to spark discussion on the intersections of womanhood. We host each show at Tin Comet Coffee on the near Eastside. The energy, love, and power overflows the place. Each show gets better and better and draws even more people.
What is the current environment for your project within Indianapolis?
Right now, women-centered work is a bit of a fad in the city. There are so many well-established nonprofits and businesses that are doing valuable work with and for women and girls.
What makes us different is we center on the oft forgotten and marginalized women and girls of color. And the artistic function of our work is both a form of expression but also helps people unpack the complex identities and intersections of women’s lives so solidarity is possible and the end of a patriarchal society is imminent.
Of all the cities where you could live, why did you choose Indy?
As a resident of Indiana for many years, Indianapolis has always been familiar and particularly attractive. Public Allies served as the perfect segue to finally move here, really make a home for myself, and do meaningful work. I’m a free spirit of sorts. I’ve never lived anywhere for more than a year since graduating college almost five years ago. I’m so glad I chose Indy.
