More than Peach: A Pioneer
Bellen's More than Peach Project ® began by first having changed the language in my own school and community. This was in 2019. I then developed the larger project to fill existing gaps and build access. My focus has always been to connect with kids in resounding ways to bring global change, build empathy, and invest in our spaces. Now at 15 and 7 years later, More than Peach has become a leading inclusive brand that drives compassionate change.
I was confused that once a single crayon was named “flesh” by a brand and that more recently friends called only the peach crayon “skin color” and so I decided to help grow the language for whole spaces. More than Peach resonates with kids like absolutely no other because it's for all kids built by a kid. More than Peach...for brilliant spaces and faces! "There's no coloring rule book...now back to my drawing." ❤️-Bellen
A Video Message from Bellen...Why More than Peach?
Bellen's ability to honor and understand her value while recognizing others without exclusion has been inspiring to watch and from which to learn. When the suggestion was made to Bellen to offer the brown crayon instead of the peach, Bellen very thoughtfully declined--thinking critically and seeking a more inclusive solution. Her response managed to change the interactions in her classroom from that point forward and later, the world. It reminds us all the wisdom, leadership, and unlimited potential of our youth and the importance of showing both courage & humility in our spaces.
In changing age-old language and broadening what we see as norms, Bellen's tremendous influence (since Spring 2019) on even long-standing (huge) brands is undeniable. (And, crediting her work and influence if/when the genuine goal is representation, shows an understanding & commitment to the larger mission.)
Leading the charge utilizing uniquely-designed More than Peach® products, Bellen and More than Peach have now become a part of our history to endure in hearts and minds for many generations to come. Find More than Peach in classrooms and other notable environments including museums, legislation, the Library of Congress and others.