311: Photographer turned homeless advocate Duke Givens has a new exhibit honoring Black women

The Word with Jackie Rae

Duke Givens is well known for his work with homeless residents in Long Beach through his nonprofit, Care Closet LBC, but before he became a prominent advocate, Givens was already a talented photographer.

Recently, he showcased his latest exhibit “Shades of Her” at the Expo Arts Center in celebration of Black History Month. The series highlights the diversity of Black women and their role in bettering the community.

Givens has been photographing Long Beach for over 30 years. He has previously documented the perils of gang life and even designed an album cover for the legendary Long Beach rapper Snoop Dogg.

Days after presenting “Shades of Her,” Givens was named a recipient of the city’s 2023 Peacemaker Award, which annually honors individuals who promote the values of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through their community activism.

On this episode of “The Word” podcast, Givens shares his thoughts on his exhibit, his award, his future in photography, and ways the community can continue to support the unhoused.

“Shades of Her” is no longer on display, but Givens says he is working on making the exhibit a mobile pop-up gallery. He is currently working with the African American Cultural Center and Long Beach Poly High School to set up the next event. For dates and information on the next exhibit, follow Givens’ photography Instagram page here: https://www.instagram.com/dukephoto4u/

Follow Care Closet on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/CareClosetLBC Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/careclosetlbc/

You can also donate here. https://www.gofundme.com/f/care-closet-lbc-serving-the-unhoused-population?qid=e30b89adc1c18ce61578198c238341b0