WE DON'T LEAD.
WE DON'T FOLLOW.
WE JUST PUT IN WORK.
THE COLLECTIVE
Dismantling Oppressive Patterns for Empowerment (D.O.P.E.) Collective is a do-it-yourself organization based in Buffalo, New York that aims to build a stronger alternative music and arts community for people of color (POC), women, LGBTQ+ & disabled individuals. We aim to create a safe and uplifting environments for overlooked members of the Buffalo community and commit ourselves to the greater project of social change.
Inspired by the Black and Brown Punk Show Collective based in Chicago, IL, D.O.P.E. Collective was founded in 2015 by black queer, trans and ally 20 year olds who, individually, were artists, entrepreneurs, and advocates.
As a unit the collective provides education, creative community-based showcases and, with the help of health partners, HIV testing and access to various sexual, mental and reproductive resources.
*Logo and non-binary/gender-nonconforming mascot, Dominique aka Domo, was originally designed by Obsidian Bellis.
Cred: "Meet the D.O.P.E. Collective," Dir. Anthony Pierce
Cred: "Black and Brown Punk Collective 2013," Dir. Pierce McCleary
FOUNDERS X MEMBERS
Osidian "Sid" Bellis
They/Them/TheirCo-Founder and Illustrator.
Caitlin "Cai" Blue
She/Her/HersFacilitator and Social Media Manager.
Bhakti Brown
They/Them/TheirSocial Media Manager.
Jason Cathcart
He/Him/HisEducation Director and Social Media Manager.
Kenny Hollins
He/Him/HisPoet and Producer.
Savion Mingo
He/Him/HisCo-Founder, Graphic Designer, and Administrative Director.
Jamiah Mootry
She/Her/HersCo-Founder, Graphic Designer, and Financial/Legal Docs. Administrator.
Khari Waits
He/Him/HisCo-Founder, Booking Coordinator, and Musician.
Vondale Walker
He/His/Him/They/Them/TheirHealth Advocate.
Wayne Woodburn
He/His/HimSocial Media Manager