I choose to R.IS.E.

Dr. Artika Tyner

Planting People Growing Justice Leadership Institute (PPGJ) is proud to unveil our newest educational innovation: RISE: The Playing Card Game. It is more than just a game. RISE is a powerful tool designed to spark exploration of Black history and culture while cultivating essential leadership skills. Centered around the theme “I Choose to R.I.S.E.,” it calls on individuals to step up and make a meaningful difference in their communities.
R.I.S.E. stands for Respect, Integrity, Self-awareness, and Engagement. These four core qualities define impactful leadership and form the foundation of strong, vibrant communities.

HONORING BLACK HISTORY
Planting People Growing Justice Leadership Institute believes learning Black history is not something to be done only on special occasions, but something that we should celebrate daily. This is our nation’s history; the history of a people who endured countless hardships to dream of a better tomorrow for their children.
When we learn about Black history, we learn about ourselves. We discover what is possible when the human spirit leads the way – when capable, driven individuals dare to chase their boldest dreams. When you see what the men and women included in R.I.S.E. have done with their lives, in spite of the odds, in spite of the obstacles – you will look at your hands with renewed purpose. This is an invitation to explore the critical question: “What’s in my hands to make a difference?” While reflecting, you can identify key strategies for leaving the world a better place than how you found it.
As you look more closely at your hands, you will also recognize that there is power in your hands. The transformative power to be able to address the challenges of our time. Transformative power to look beyond race, tribe or creed to realize your stake in our shared humanity and common destiny.
On the face of each card, there is a Black difference maker from a Supreme Court Justice to an innovative community organizer. Some of the prominent figures on the cards are: Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown-Jackson. Before her, a Black woman had never served on the Supreme Court of the United States. She forged her own path through hard work and determination. Then, B.B. King whose musical stylings were groundbreaking. He inspired a new generation of musicians on what music could be, rather than what it was. Playing with soul, he shaped the blues according to his own personality and influenced millions throughout his accomplished career. Also, Ella Baker, who organized for civil rights actions and protests for more than 50 years. She received little recognition, however, preferring to do her work behind the scenes, keeping the focus on change.

I Choose to R.I.SE.
This project is important to me for several reasons. First, when we learn Black history, we learn about humanity’s resilience and about what is possible when the community works together to create change. Second, PPGJ seeks to honor and commemorate the inspiring lives that these Black heroes and sheroes (on the cards) have lived. Their leadership reminds each of us to explore the critical question: “What is in your hands to make a difference in the world?” Third, PPGJ is filling an unmet demand for fun, play-based learning materials about Black history. This will ensure outstanding education in this space is available to everyone who wants to learn, grow, and lead. Finally, PPGJ is promoting a physical card game that people of all ages can pick up and play together without the aid of technology. Parents can play with children, children can play together, and teachers can play with their students.
In honor of Juneteenth, we launched our Kickstarter campaign to bring this innovative project to life. PPGJ chose Juneteenth because it symbolizes unity, freedom, and the power of collective action in driving meaningful change. Through this month-long campaign, we aim to raise awareness about the significance of Juneteenth by highlighting the resilience, courage, and leadership of Black leaders. It stands as a roadmap by showing that ordinary people, like you and me, can make an extraordinary impact in our communities.
The Kickstarter campaign will help bring our vision to R.I.S.E. to fruition as we inspire players of all ages to learn more about Black history and develop their leadership skills.
Are you ready to begin your leadership journey?
It starts with a conscious choice to R.I.S.E. every single day and lead with purpose, passion, and intention.
Learn more about R.I.S.E.: https://www.ppgjli.org/leadership-framework 
Support the Kickstarter campaign: bit.ly/ICHOOSETORISE
Through her organization, Planting People Growing Justice Leadership Institute, Dr. Artika Tyner offers resources to foster literacy and education.