to me, music is more than just an art form–it’s a bridge to equity and empowerment. as a jazz enthusiast and drummer, I’ve long wanted to bring to life an organization providing under-resourced youth access to musical instruments and tutoring at the intersection of my passion for music. considering jazz was birthed in low-income and African-American communities, ensuring children from similarly marginalized communities today have access to the art form has been a goal lingering in my mind ever since I fell in love with jazz as a freshman. although I am fortunate enough to have access to a quality musical education, countless youth from lower-income communities lack the same opportunities that have allowed me to play and develop as a person and musician. at its best, Jazz for Equity will serve as a tool in unifying and strengthening communities often separated by race and socio-economic status.