Center of Black Arts

Community has always been the foundation of Black culture, yet many young Black people struggle to feel connected. Social disconnection continues to grow, especially with the limited availability of accessible, Black-centered educational resources. For those living in predominantly White communities, finding meaningful ways to connect with others can be even more difficult. Across the U.S., many cultural centers lack visibility, adequate literary resources, or the open, welcoming environments needed to function as public spaces that support gathering, learning, and community building of black people. 

The Center of Black Arts (COBA) aims to fill this gap as a vibrant cultural hub in Grand Rapids, Michigan. COBA offers a centralized space where young Black individuals can access essential information on housing, educational materials, community events, shared spaces, and art. Through these resources, COBA helps strengthen connections to Black culture, fostering a deeper sense of belonging, identity, and community engagement.