Welcome to NorthStar of GIS's Melanated & Mapping Community

This is the official community space for NorthStar of GIS members and friends — a home for connection, collaboration, and collective action. Whether you’re a GIS professional, a student, an educator, or a changemaker using mapping for racial and social justice, this is where we come together to share knowledge, uplift each other, and shape the future.

Who We Are

We’re a growing network of Black geographers, allies, and advocates working at the intersection of technology, place, and racial justice. Our members lead mapping projects, share knowledge, and lift each other up.

What You’ll Find Here

Inside the Melanated & Mapping Community, you’ll discover:

• Networking & Mentorship – Meet Black geographers and allies from across industries and around the world.

• Event Access – Early invites to NorthStar events, panels, and workshops.

• Project Collaboration – Share your mapping work, find partners, and get feedback.

• Resources – Tools, articles, and guides for mapping, advocacy, and professional growth.

• Discussion Spaces – Conversations on GIS technology, racial justice, and everything in between.

Our Culture

We believe in belonging, equity, and impact. This is a space where we:

• Center Black voices and experiences in geography and mapping.

• Respect and welcome allies who actively work toward racial and spatial justice.

• Celebrate our collective achievements and hold space for the challenges we face.

• Collaborate across disciplines, industries, and geographies.

Who Should Join

You belong here if you are:

• A Black professional, student, or advocate in GIS or mapping.

• An ally committed to racial equity in geography.

• Someone using maps to tell stories, drive justice, or inspire change.

• Curious about learning how place, power, and equity intersect.

Your Next Step

The map changes when we change it — together.
[ Join the Melanated & Mapping Community ⤵️ ]