Afrofuturism & Eight Essential Outcomes
At BCDI NYS our guiding star is the future of Black children.
About Black Child Development Institute - New York State
BCDI NYS is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that amplifies and promotes good work in communities, supports families in identifying and sharing resources for their well being and happiness, and advocates for policies and practices that uplift Black children, families, and communities throughout New York State. Our work is three-fold: to promote Black excellence and joy; to root out anti-Black predation that infiltrates systems and mindsets; and to move toward an equitable future for all. BCDI NYS is a grassroots, locally grown and led organization in New York State. BCDI NYS is an affiliate of the National Black Child Development Institute (NBCDI) nationwide network of villages.
Community. Resources.
Advocacy.
We are dedicated to promoting positive community building and cultural connections. Through collaborative initiatives, movement building, and innovative programs, we strive to ensure that Black children thrive and their futures are bright and full of possibilities! We are an inclusive organization; all are welcome. We recognize and acknowledge the historic oppression and erasure of Black people, history and culture. Yet we assert that Black is beautiful in all its manifestations across the African diaspora. Here, Black signifies diasporic cultures, both transcendent and apart from race. It is also inclusive of Latinx and Indigenous communities, particularly as a matter of intersectionality. However, we choose not to co-opt the voice and values of those communities. We stand arm in arm instead respecting their agency and authority. Therefore, we strive to uplift the excellence and the promise of the people, history and culture to make a better world for everyone.
Meet Our 2024-2026
Educator in Residence
Andrea Bellinger Ellis is a passionate child advocate and educator dedicated to creating spaces and developing leaders that are committed to excellent equitable educational experiences for Black and Brown students. She holds degrees in psychology, early childhood education, curriculum and instruction, and educational leadership with a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion. Andrea started her career as a program director at a four-year university and subsequently founded and operated a family daycare center. Leaving the daycare center in good hands, she went on to serve as an elementary school teacher, a principal, hold several roles in administration as well as a leadership coach. Andrea is the founder and principal consultant of E2serve. She and her spouse Christopher are the proud parents of two happy and energetic children!
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