Skip to main content

Deneane uses movement and the physical form to push the boundaries of creative expression to disrupt the narratives around blackness.

I'm very much interested in creating spaces and experiences where we are able to understand who we are beyond the categories and the ideologies that are typically assigned and described to Black communities.

Deneane Richburg

Storytelling Through Movement

Founded in 2007, Brownbody combines figure skating, modern dance and theater to tell stories of African-American culture and history.

The donation-based learn to skate program centers blackness in the curriculum, format and structure of its lessons. Youth and adults connect in community and movement.

Snapshots

BB3
BB10
DSC 0290
BB23
DSC 0861
DSC 0354
DSC 0380
DSC 0563

Embodied Training

Brownbody offers embodied training workshops designed to acknowledge and address the trauma of racial oppression. Through reflection-based dialogue, participants learn how to disempower rooted narratives of the Black community.

Let's celebrate the beauty that is a part of our culture, our history and our lineage.

Deneane Richburg

More Stories

Fostering Wealth in Minnesota’s Indigenous Communities

Learn how Mni Sota Fund supports Native homeownership in the Twin Cities.

See their impact

Emma Norton Services: A Century of Transformative Housing

For more than 100 years this renowned nonprofit has ensured that people in Minnesota have a safe and affordable place to call home.

See the impact

Juana Garcia: Celebrating Cultural Traditions Through Dance

Dance has been a way for Juana (Jaynie) Garcia to connect to her Mexican heritage, introducing Ballet Folklorico to others in the city of Willmar.

See the project

Rondo's Heartbeat: The Enduring Impact of Hallie Q. Brown Community Center

Learn how this community center has served as a safe haven for generations in Saint Paul.

Watch the video

Drumming for Unity: A Vision for Community Change

Created by John Salgado Maldonado, Cimarrón Batucada uses the art of drumming to address social justice issues and promote cross-cultural community engagement.

See the project

Announcing Our New Strategic Plan

The Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation launches our strategic plan for the next five years. Watch our video to see our aspiration, purpose and key strategies.

Watch the video

We’ve Moved

On January 21, 2025, the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation relocated to Osborn370, a dynamic hub of innovation and diversity in downtown Saint Paul.

Read about our move

From Lab to Stage: Kenji Shoemaker's Unique Path in Theater

There’s a unique art and science to prop and stage design. These skills helped former scientist Kenji Shoemaker switch careers, showcasing his talents behind the curtains.

See the project

GET MONTHLY STORIES, NEWS AND UPDATES

JOIN
US!

* Indicates a required field