The Black Arts Repertory Theatre

The Black Arts Repertory Theatre (BART) was an influential organization founded in 1965 in Harlem by poet Amiri Baraka (then LeRoi Jones). It aimed to promote Black culture, arts, and political activism, emphasizing pride and self-determination for African Americans. BART sought to create space for Black artistic expression and challenge racial oppression through performances, workshops, and community engagement. It played a key role in the Black Arts Movement, which emphasized the importance of Black identity and creativity in shaping social change. The organization contributed to the broader cultural and political awakening during the 1960s.