Washington, D.C. — At a time when America’s civil rights legacy is being targeted and the presentation of facts is being censored, March On! is stepping boldly into its next chapter—fortifying its leadership to expand its impact, preserve historical truth, and amplify calls for justice through storytelling.
Founded by Robert Raben in 2013 at the encouragement of Congressman John Lewis, March On! has worked to elevate the untold stories of Americans while inspiring the newest generation of change agents. Today, with a commitment to stand against racism, bigotry, antisemitism, and all forms of hate, March On!, the organization announced the strengthening of its leadership team: Kim Callinan will join as Executive Director, and Denielle Pemberton, Esq will serve as volunteer Board Chair, alongside Founder Robert Raben and Artistic Director Isisara Bey.
“March On! was born out of a deep desire to protect, uplift, and amplify the stories that shaped our country’s greatest social movement –the civil rights movement. As an organization, it connects leaders and provides an outlet for artistic expression to continue the legacy,” said Founder Robert Raben. “With the addition of Kim as Executive Director, March On! is poised to continue growing our impact and doubling down on making good trouble. The brilliance and moral clarity of speaking truth to power is required in this moment.”
Kim Callinan brings more than two decades of experience leading mission-driven organizations at the intersection of advocacy, storytelling, and innovation. Known for her capacity to fundraise in furtherance of bold visions and tangible impact, Callinan will oversee March On!’s strategic expansion and elevate its national profile.
“I’m proud to join March On!—an organization that understands the power of storytelling and lived experiences to create lasting change,” said Callinan. “As we expand our reach and deepen our impact, I’m excited to build on the incredible foundation laid by Robert and Isisara and help guide March On! into its new era of sustainability.”
Meanwhile, Isisara Bey will continue in her long-standing role as Artistic Director, a position she has held since March On!’s inception. Over the past decade, Bey has curated programming throughout the United States that combines art, history, and social justice to illuminate the victories of past and present social movements.
“Since its inception, March On! has fused history and creativity to shed light upon the never-ending struggle for justice,” said Bey. “I’m thrilled to welcome Kim and Denielle into these leadership roles—together, we will continue crafting and highlighting stories that strengthen communities, move hearts, and inspire future generations to follow in the footsteps of the civil rights movement.”
Denielle Pemberton, Esq., a seasoned legal executive, governance expert, and leadership advisor, steps into her new role as volunteer Board Chair. A longtime supporter and trusted member of March On!’s board, Pemberton brings deep experience across the corporate, philanthropic, and entertainment sectors—and a steadfast commitment to lifting underrepresented voices.
“It’s an honor to step into this role at such a pivotal moment when the inspiring stories of our ancestors and overlooked communities are needed most,” said Pemberton. “For over a decade, March On! has been bridging divides between generations and showcasing how the fight to bend the moral arc of justice is a constant battle. Our work is so important at this moment in time, and I look forward to working alongside Robert, Isisara, and Kim to protect and amplify our collective memory. The March On! festival and annual gala champion justice and celebrate tribulations and triumphs through storytelling.
Other leaders and long-time supporters of March On! also shared their excitement about this new era:
“The stories of the civil rights movement must not only be remembered but continuously retold so that every generation is fortified in the fight for racial and economic justice,” said A’Lelia Bundles, Board Member. “With Kim and Denielle’s added leadership, March On! will continue to be a source of truth-telling and inspiration.”
“March On! and the stories it amplifies are more essential than ever, and Kim and Isisara are the right leaders at this critical moment in time,” said Craig Emanuel, Board Treasurer for March On! “Their decades-long dedication to justice will ensure that we continue shaping the social movements of the present and future.”
“From the very start, March On! has channeled the art storytelling and entertainment to drive the movement to create a more just America,” said Nicole Venable, longtime supporter. “At a time when the erasure of history is rising, March On! will continue the Civil Rights tradition of truth telling. I am thrilled to see Kim and Denielle step into leadership and for what is to come next.”
March On! uses the power of the arts—film, performing, and visual—to find, encourage, and bring to life the stories of both icons and foot soldiers from the Civil Rights Movement. As a year-round arts platform, we are dedicated to fostering a deeper appreciation of these pivotal stories.
