We live in a time of contradictions. Calls for social justice have become frequent and the most unusual suspects are saying “equity” out loud, even as our communities have become increasingly tribal and isolated. New “ism’s” and “them-phobia’s” appear and evolve daily, while the universal importance of human connection has become the hot topic from low-budget podcasts to celebrity confessionals to parent-teacher conferences. Dr. Tonya M. Matthews is an influential figure in social entrepreneurship, equity strategy, and the convergence of formal and informal education. With a unique background in poetry and engineering, she is a sought-after visionary for community projects and boards, and dynamic speaker across age groups and sectors. Dr. Matthews currently serves as President and CEO of the International African American Museum, elevating its mission of authentic and empathetic telling of African American history as a thoughtful and critical challenge to institutional racism. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx