Dana, the Speaker
My Bio
Witness the extraordinary journey of Dana—a story that will leave you inspired and deeply moved. In March of 1994, while strolling back from church on Chicago's west side, Dana encountered a life-altering event. A group of five young black men subjected him to a vicious assault, leaving him with three words that reverberated through his very being: "Welcome to racism." These words inflicted a deeper wound than his physical injuries, igniting a burning desire to understand the pain behind them. Thus began Dana's remarkable 30-year odyssey, living and serving in the inner-city Black communities of Chicago.
Dana fearlessly transcends racial lines and breaks down neighborhood barriers as a resolute advocate for justice on behalf of his Black Family. For an astounding 18 years, he volunteered at Division 10 Maximum Security of Cook County Jail, extending compassion and support to the most marginalized. Additionally, he dedicated 13 years to the Juvenile Detention Center, serving on the Victim Impact Panel and positively influencing the lives of over 7,000 youth annually. By forging genuine connections with the young men on the streets, were he earned the affectionate nickname “Revy’D"! During those walks he fostered lasting relationships built on trust and understanding.
Recognizing the pressing need for a safe haven, Dana converted an old fellowship hall at Rogers Park Baptist Church into a vibrant basketball court—a transformative space where dreams took flight. Over the course of nearly a decade, this sanctuary attracted over 350 youth each week, offering not only nourishing meals, but also access to a recording studio, participation in an afterschool program, basketball games, and heartfelt conversations.
Today, Dana's powerful outreach is known as OneLove—a movement born from his remarkable 30-year journey of understanding racism. It stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to fighting for justice, challenging racism, and advocating passionately for his Black Family. Join him on his YouTube Channel, where 40,000 devoted followers gather to absorb his wisdom and insights.
Dana's impact extends far beyond the digital realm. As he continues to speak at various gatherings, churches, and conferences across the United States, Nigeria, Indonesia, and Singapore, his magnetic presence captivates audiences, leaving an indelible impression. Transparent about his white privilege and the pervasive white supremacy mindset, Dana fearlessly addresses these issues, sharing his introspection with his 40,000 YouTube followers and 30,000 Facebook supporters. In his own words, “I’d rather be hated for speaking truth, than liked for remaining silent”!
Prepare to be profoundly inspired as you explore Dana's remarkable journey—a testament to the transformative power of empathy, resilience, love and unwavering dedication to justice.
Speaking a Word in Season...
Conferences
Youth Conferences
Youth Conferences
From the sunny shores of Florida to Ohio, from the landscapes of Minnesota to Hawaii, I have been bestowed with the honor and privilege of speaking at various conferences, churches and various gatherings. And to top it all off, the pinnacle of my journey took me to our nation's capital, Washington DC.
Every opportunity to stand before dive
From the sunny shores of Florida to Ohio, from the landscapes of Minnesota to Hawaii, I have been bestowed with the honor and privilege of speaking at various conferences, churches and various gatherings. And to top it all off, the pinnacle of my journey took me to our nation's capital, Washington DC.
Every opportunity to stand before diverse audiences across these states has been a tremendous honor, and I consider it a true privilege to share my message and insights with people from different walks of life. Each experience has enriched my perspective, deepened my connections, and fueled my passion for inspiring and uplifting others through my words.
Youth Conferences
Youth Conferences
Youth Conferences
I have had the tremendous honor of speaking at numerous youth conferences right here in the United States, including the prestigious Moore Professional Inner-City Youth Conference. This platform has allowed me to connect with and inspire young minds from various backgrounds, leaving a positive impact on their lives.
Beyond the borders of t
I have had the tremendous honor of speaking at numerous youth conferences right here in the United States, including the prestigious Moore Professional Inner-City Youth Conference. This platform has allowed me to connect with and inspire young minds from various backgrounds, leaving a positive impact on their lives.
Beyond the borders of the United States, my journey as a speaker has taken me on incredible global adventures. I've had the privilege of sharing my message and insights in diverse countries like Singapore, Germany, and Nigeria. Embracing different cultures and engaging with audiences from around the world has been an eye-opening and enriching experience, further solidifying my passion for making a positive difference in the lives of youth, regardless of their geographic location.
School Assemblies
Documentaries/Panels
Documentaries/Panels
I have a profound love for working with young people, and I consider it a great privilege to engage with them as a speaker. Over the years, I have had the honor of addressing various events and gatherings, including opening day assemblies, Diversity Days, and anti-bullying programs. My primary goal as a motivational speaker is to inspire
I have a profound love for working with young people, and I consider it a great privilege to engage with them as a speaker. Over the years, I have had the honor of addressing various events and gatherings, including opening day assemblies, Diversity Days, and anti-bullying programs. My primary goal as a motivational speaker is to inspire and empower the young individuals who stand before me.
Having the opportunity to connect with young minds and hearts, to share my experiences and insights, and to encourage them to believe in their potential is both fulfilling and humbling. I firmly believe in the power of positive influence and aim to instill confidence, self-belief, and a sense of purpose in every young person I interact with. Witnessing their growth and witnessing the spark of inspiration in their eyes is the most rewarding aspect of my journey as a youth motivational speaker.
Documentaries/Panels
Documentaries/Panels
Documentaries/Panels
I am incredibly honored to have been a part of Director Ric Mathis' Black Friday 2, "The Living Legacy World Tour." This extraordinary event brought together influential figures like Les Brown, David Banner, Chuck D, and many others, all with a common mission: to ignite inspiration and empower African Americans to create their own living
I am incredibly honored to have been a part of Director Ric Mathis' Black Friday 2, "The Living Legacy World Tour." This extraordinary event brought together influential figures like Les Brown, David Banner, Chuck D, and many others, all with a common mission: to ignite inspiration and empower African Americans to create their own living legacies.
Standing shoulder to shoulder with these exceptional individuals, I had the privilege of sharing insights and experiences that aimed to uplift and motivate the African American community. It was a truly transformative experience, witnessing the impact of collective wisdom that ignited the hearts of those who attended.
It was a reminder that when we come together to support and uplift one another, we can create a lasting impact and build a brighter future for generations to come. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to have contributed to such a momentous and purposeful event.