Mission: Athiri is a holistic community organizing school where we unite to heal, learn, and build the world of our dreams.
Our Story: Higher Ground for the Common Good
Athiri began in 2017 as a coalition of artist-activists who shared a fundamental belief: that the power of the arts can inspire social and political action. We used visual art to confront gun violence, music to honor the Black American experience, and community place-making to establish a venue and greenspace in Muhammad Ali’s childhood neighborhood. We proved that culture is the most powerful tool we have to speak truth to power.
In 2020, work expanded when our founder, Jecorey Arthur, began representing our community in city government, creating a natural path forward. We realized that the same creative energy used to envision a work of art could be used to envision a new society through building people power.
We didn't leave our artist-activist roots behind; we grew them into a sanctuary. Today, we are organizing with possibility: Feet on the ground. Heart in the work. Head in the clouds.
Who We Are
Jecorey Arthur | Director of Learning
Jecorey Arthur is a West End native, educator, and musician who made history in 2020 as Louisville’s youngest city councilman. A classically trained percussionist and hip-hop artist, Jecorey’s career has always used arts and culture as a tool for justice. After passing hundreds of pieces of legislation centered on housing, peace, and equity, he focused on his roots in movement-building. Today, Jecorey is a professor at Simmons College of Kentucky, blending his experience in government with his passion for the arts to train everyday people to organize for systemic change.
Dr. Lisa Arthur | Director of Healing
Dr. Lisa Arthur is a clinical psychologist specializing in the intersection of mental health and systemic justice. A graduate of the University of Louisville and Spalding University, she brings extensive experience supporting children, families, and veterans. Her primary focus lies in addressing racial trauma, providing the clinical foundation for Athiri’s Healing Pillar. By integrating trauma informed care with restorative practices, Dr. Arthur supports our community in processing racialized stress and leading from a place of resilience and wellness.
Board of Directors
Regina Freeman. Labor Organizer.
Stacey Sougoufara. Health Professional.
Greg Byrne. Educator. Musician.
Verbon Graves. Educator. Photographer.