Future Forward Festival is more than just a celebration—it’s a movement born from the heart of Boston, designed to uplift and empower our communities. As organizers, PUTINWORK and Dorchester Art Project are committed to creating an event that reflects the vibrant spirit of Roxbury, Dorchester, and Mattapan, while also addressing some of the most pressing issues facing our city today.

The inspiration behind this festival is deeply rooted in the experiences of our community. Robert “ROB.” Kelley-Morgan, one of our founders, has been a tireless advocate for the arts in Boston, working as a talent manager for over a decade. His passion for music, art, and culture is shaping this festival into what it is becoming today—a space where entertainment meets empowerment.

“Our goal,” Rob says, “is to contribute to the growth, self-development, and making sure that if we’re going to be a product of our environment, our environment is resourceful, one that gives to us.”

One of the key moments that underscores the importance of this mission was the tragic loss of Rob’s uncle, Anthony Kelley, who died in his cell at the Nashua Street Jail. He was just 37 years old. Anthony’s death was preventable. Rob’s uncle had severe health issues—high blood pressure and an enlarged heart and liver—and the family believes that with proper medical attention, his death could have been prevented. Instead, he was neglected and left alone in a cell after his arrest, a bold reminder of the health disparities and systemic neglect that too many in our community face. This loss reinforced our commitment to creating an event that not only entertains but also serves as a platform for change.

Future Forward Festival is a reflection of that commitment. We’re not just throwing a celebration; we’re creating a space where entertainment meets empowerment. By focusing on music, art, and culture, we’re not only celebrating what makes our community vibrant, but also laying the groundwork for real, lasting change.

A shining example of this mission in action is the Dorchester Art Project (DAP). DAP has transformed from being owned and led by a white, non-profit organization to becoming an artist-owned cooperative, now guided by a BIPOC community organizers. This transition embodies the Future Forward spirit—building equity and ownership for artists, creators, and organizers in Boston. DAP is currently developing new governance bylaws and systems to ensure that its organization is equitable and empowering, fostering an environment where artists can truly thrive. By promoting the spirit, energy, and infrastructure of ownership, DAP aligns perfectly with our mission of uplifting and empowering our communities and is the perfect stakeholder to spearhead the future forward mission. 

Our goals are clear: we want to celebrate, support and encourage the arts, help close the racial wealth gap, increase the life expectancy of our residents, and improve the overall quality of life in our neighborhoods. We know this won’t happen overnight, but we believe that by coming together for events like this festival, we can start to build the habits and traditions that will lead to a healthier, more equitable future.

As Rob puts it, “We want to make sure that we take ownership of our lives into our hands, as individuals, creatives, organizers and as Black and Brown people in the city of Boston.”

We’re all about creating an environment that nurtures growth and self-development. Our communities are rich in talent, creativity, and spirit, and it’s time we take full ownership of that. The festival is just one step in a much larger journey—a way to bring people together, share resources, and start conversations that will lead to positive change.

So, come out and join us at the Future Forward Festival. Let’s celebrate our culture, connect with one another, and start building a future where everyone in our community has the chance to live their best life.