Oakland kids program getting ‘Black Panther’ money
The Walt Disney Company is raking in piles of money these days, thanks to the record-smashing success of “Black Panther.”
But instead of just throwing the money at another ride at one of its theme parks — though that could still happen — the company is taking a cue from a scene in the superhero blockbuster. (We won’t reveal any more than that.) It has pledged to give back to the Bay Area city that Ryan Coogler says inspired much of the film’s narrative and visual impact.
The company has announced that it’s donating $1 million to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America to help expand its STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) programs in cities throughout the country, the AV Club reported. That program includes establishing new STEM Centers of Innovation in a dozen cities throughout the United States, including Oakland, Coogler’s hometown and a setting that puts the film’s story into motion.
With this donation, Disney is also paying tribute to the film’s teen tech genius Shuri (played by Letitia Wright), the AV Club said.
In a statement, Walt Disney Co. CEO Bob Iger said that Black Panther is a “masterpiece of movie making” that is “sparking discussion, inspiring people young and old, and breaking down age-old industry myths.”
He said: “It is thrilling to see how inspired young audiences were by the spectacular technology in the film, so it’s fitting that we show our appreciation by helping advance STEM programs for youth, especially in underserved areas of the country, to give them the knowledge and tools to build the future they want.”
The nonprofit will use this one-time grant to establish new STEM centers in such cities as Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Harlem, Washington, D.C. and Oakland. The centers give children access to handson technologies, including 3-D printers, robotics and video production, according to the nonprofit.
“From hands-on interactive programs to critical thinking, Boys & Girls Clubs of America is committed to providing thousands of young people with the tools they need to prepare for a great future,” Jim Clark, president and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of America, said in a statement, according to ComingSoon. “Thanks to Disney’s support, we can expand our outreach and allow more youth to find their passions and discover STEM careers.”
Since its opening two weekends ago, “Black Panther” has brought in $400 million domestically and $700 million worldwide, according to Box Office Mojo.