Gordon Parks Society

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The Gordon Parks Society is Critical Exposure’s way to honor the spirit of Gordon Parks’ work, while recognizing the key role our dedicated donors play in continuing his legacy.

Gordon Parks was best known as a photojournalist. He first came to prominence as a social documentarian for his stark portrayal of poverty and race as Life magazine's first Black photographer, and for his pictures documenting America’s civil rights movement.

”I picked up a camera because it was my choice of weapons against what I hated most about the universe: racism, intolerance, poverty.  I could have just as easily picked up a knife or a gun, like many of my childhood friends did... most of whom were murdered or put in prison... but I chose not to go that way. I felt that I could somehow subdue these evils by doing something beautiful that people recognize me by, and thus make a whole different life for myself, which has proved to be so." – Gordon Parks 

Critical Exposure seeks to provide this same opportunity to DC youth of color – to train them to use the camera as a weapon in the fight for educational equity and social injustice. The support of Gordon Parks Society members have made that opportunity possible for thousands of students.

You can join the Gordon Parks Society with an annual gift of $1,000 or through a monthly donation of $84. By joining, you make it possible for a high school student to participate in our advanced, year-long Fellowship Program. Here's the powerful story of one former Fellow, Samera. 

Benefits include invitations to special events, recognition on our website, and more!

We'd like to thank all of the members of the Gordon Parks Society, whose dedication, generosity, and belief in the potential and power of our students makes our work possible.

* Indicates founding member

Please contact Marisa Stubbs for more information.