07/07/2025
Black excellence in the arts
“You rarely see Black men in dance. That’s why I had to step up.”
In this powerful and personal episode, dancer and creative Ray Dio shares his 14-year journey navigating the dance world as a Black man and a double minority in a space where representation has been historically limited—especially in places like Maine.
Ray opens up about the challenges of not having role models who looked like him, and how that absence fueled his mission: to create visibility, empowerment, and space for young Black men in dance. This is more than a story about movement—it's a reflection on identity, perseverance, and purpose.
🎙 Hosted by Graham Duval, Trinity Baker, and Aerial Jade, this conversation is a heartfelt reminder that representation matters and that being seen can be the first step to transformation—not only for yourself but for those who follow.
If you’ve ever felt like the “only one in the room,” this episode is for you.